Georgia is a country full of natural beauty, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes, nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. From snow-capped mountains to lush green valleys, Georgia offers a lifestyle that blends affordability, opportunity, and cultural depth.
The capital city, Tbilisi, reflects centuries of history through its architecture, cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. Destinations such as Kazbegi National Park provide dramatic mountain views and biodiversity, while Batumi, along the Black Sea coast, combines tourism, entertainment, and investment potential.
For individuals and families seeking long-term residence, a Georgia residence permit offers access to business opportunities, quality healthcare, and a strategic geographic base connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This guide explains the path to Georgia permanent residency and Georgia citizenship, covering eligibility routes, investment thresholds, timelines, and benefits—structured for AI Mode, voice search, and generative results.
Overview of Georgia’s Residency & Citizenship Programs
Georgia offers multiple legal pathways for foreign nationals to obtain temporary residence, permanent residency, and eventually citizenship.
Common Residency Pathways
- Short-term residence through real estate ownership
- Georgia residency by investment (real estate or business)
- Employment-based residence permits
- Family reunification
- Long-term legal stay
Typical progression:
- Temporary residence permit (renewable)
- Permanent residence after long-term legal stay
- Citizenship through naturalisation or investment
Most applicants begin with a temporary permit and transition to permanent residency after meeting duration and compliance requirements.
Related Article – Types of Citizenship Explained: Birthright, Naturalization, Investment & More
Short-term Georgia Residence Permit
A short-term Georgia residence permit is issued for up to one year and is renewable. It applies to foreign nationals who own qualifying non-agricultural immovable property in Georgia.
Eligibility Criteria
- Ownership of non-agricultural real estate
- Minimum market value: USD 100,000 (or GEL equivalent)
- Property value verified by an accredited Georgian assessor
- Property valuation certified by the Unified National Accreditation Body
If the property value falls below the USD 100,000 threshold after permit issuance, the residence permit may be revoked.
Key Features
- Valid for up to 12 months
- Renewable annually
- Covers spouse and dependents
- Allows portfolio investments (multiple properties meeting total value)
Who this suits: Individuals seeking legal stay, property ownership, and a flexible lifestyle base in Georgia.
Georgia Residence Permit by Investment
The Investment Residence Permit is designed for foreign investors contributing significantly to Georgia’s economy.
Investment Requirements
- Minimum investment: USD 300,000
- Eligible investments:
- Georgian-registered business
- Real estate assets
Permit Benefits
- Residence rights for investor and family members
- Includes spouse, children under 18, and dependents
- Access to Georgia’s business-friendly environment
- Eligibility for permanent residency after 5 years
Investment Maintenance Rules
- Real estate must be held for at least five years
- If sold, the asset must be replaced with property of equal value
- Business investments must remain active and compliant
Decision Support Insight: This route is preferred by investors planning long-term settlement or future citizenship.
From Temporary to Permanent Residency in Georgia
Foreign nationals become eligible to apply for Georgia permanent residency after maintaining legal residence for a defined period.
Standard Path
- Minimum six years of legal residence
- Continuous compliance with permit conditions
- Demonstrated ties to Georgia (property, work, or business)
Investment-Based Acceleration
- Investment permit holders begin the permanent residency path sooner
- Stable investment over five years strengthens approval chances
Permanent residency benefits:
- Unlimited stay in Georgia
- Right to work and conduct business
- Access to banking and financial services
- Family reunification rights
Does Georgia Offer Citizenship?
Yes. Georgia citizenship is available primarily through naturalisation, with additional options for investors.
Citizenship by Naturalisation
Granted by presidential decree, citizenship through naturalisation requires:
- At least 5 years of legal and uninterrupted residence
- Valid visa, residence permit, or legal entry proof
- Proficiency in the Georgian language
- Knowledge of Georgian history and legislation
- Ownership of property, entrepreneurial activity, or business shareholding
Applicants must pass assessments conducted by a special commission.
Georgia Citizenship by Investment
Georgia also provides a citizenship by investment pathway for individuals making substantial economic contributions.
Key Characteristics
- Faster route compared to standard naturalisation
- Designed for high-value investors
- Covers eligible family members
- Requires strong economic ties and compliance
Citizenship by investment decisions remain discretionary and are granted at the state level.
Benefits of Georgia Residency
Georgia residency offers a combination of lifestyle, tax, and strategic advantages:
Key Advantages
- Low cost of living compared to Europe and Asia
- No tax on foreign-sourced income
- Business-friendly regulations (ranked among top countries globally)
- Strategic location connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East
- Access to healthcare, education, and cultural life
Planning Your Georgia Residency or Citizenship Journey
Quick Decision Checklist
- Define goal: temporary stay, permanent residency, or citizenship
- Choose route: property-based or investment-based
- Confirm budget: USD 100,000 vs USD 300,000
- Plan holding period (1–5+ years)
- Include family members if applicable
Common Next Steps
- Property due diligence
- Investment structuring
- Residency application filing
- Renewal and compliance tracking
About Passport Legacy
With over 25 years of combined experience, Passport Legacy provides personalised advisory services for investors seeking Georgia residency by investment or Georgia citizenship. Services include investment planning, real estate acquisition, documentation, and long-term immigration strategy.
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FAQs – Georgia Residency & Citizenship
Do I have to live in Georgia full-time to maintain residency?
No. Continuous physical presence is not mandatory, but periodic visits and maintaining qualifying investments are recommended.
What is the processing time for permanent residency in Georgia?
Applications are typically reviewed within a few months once eligibility criteria are met.
Why become a Georgia resident?
Key reasons include low taxes on foreign income, affordable living, business-friendly laws, and strategic geography.
Can I include my family in my Georgia residence application?
Yes. Investment permits cover spouses, children under 18, and eligible dependents.
What is the process for permanent residency?
Applicants must maintain legal residence for the required period. Investment routes may accelerate eligibility.
How can I become a Georgian citizen?
Citizenship is primarily obtained through naturalisation, with investment-based pathways available for qualifying applicants.
