Strategically positioned at the intersection of Europe and Asia, the Caucasus mountains pierce the skies and Black Sea beaches line the Georgian shores. While this European destination is rather underrated, that is part of its appeal.
Off the beaten path lies the capital of Tbilisi. Untarnished by tourists, the spiraling cobblestone streets glint Art Nouveau architecture alongside cozy cafes selling decadent local favorites — a combination of cheese and bread in many forms. Plus, a lively bar scene (up to European standards.) To the west is Kutaisi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. There you will stumble on bold and futuristic architecture in the city out-skirted by deciduous forests and agriculture. Beyond the cities, you can find the world’s deepest cave, world-class skiing and a hikers paradise. The country’s distinctive topography, full of natural wonders, is ancient and eye-catching to say the least.
If all the above isn’t appealing enough, Georgia is the birthplace of wine! The earliest winemaking practices are traced back here, and the country still produces a wide variety of wines today. Pair this with an extremely humble and welcoming culture and this may be the perfect relocation destination for any adventurous spirit on a budget seeking homey comforts.
Immigration and Visa Options for Georgia
There are several immigration options available for individuals who are interested in living in Georgia, including obtaining a temporary residence permit, obtaining a permanent residence permit, and applying for citizenship.
To obtain a temporary residence permit, you will need to apply at a Georgian embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to provide a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, a completed application form, and any required documentation. The temporary residence permit is valid for one year and can be renewed.
To obtain a permanent residence permit, you will need to have lived in Georgia for at least five consecutive years on a temporary residence permit. You will also need to pass a language and history test, and meet other requirements.
To apply for citizenship, you will need to have lived in Georgia for at least seven years on a permanent residence permit. You will also need to pass a language and history test, and meet other requirements.
It's important to note that these are general requirements and the specific requirements and process may vary depending on your individual circumstances. We recommend consulting with a lawyer or immigration specialist for more information on the specific requirements and process for obtaining a residence permit or citizenship in Georgia.
Can I work remotely from Georgia?
Yes, it is possible to work remotely from Georgia. Many individuals choose to work remotely from Georgia because of its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and relatively low cost of living compared to other countries.
If you are a citizen of a country that is part of the European Union or the European Economic Area (EEA), or if you are a citizen of a country that has a visa-waiver agreement with Georgia, you can enter Georgia for up to 365 days without a visa for the purpose of work. If you plan to stay in Georgia for longer than 365 days or if you are a citizen of a country that does not have a visa-waiver agreement with Georgia, you will need to obtain a temporary or permanent residence permit in order to work legally in the country.
To apply for a temporary residence permit, you will need to apply at a Georgian embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to provide a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, a completed application form, and any required documentation. The temporary residence permit is valid for one year and can be renewed.
To apply for a permanent residence permit, you will need to have lived in Georgia for at least five consecutive years on a temporary residence permit. You will also need to pass a language and history test, and meet other requirements.
It's important to note that these are general requirements and the specific requirements and process may vary depending on your individual circumstances. I recommend consulting with a lawyer or immigration specialist for more information on the specific requirements and process for obtaining a residence permit in Georgia.
You can also learn more about the Digital Nomad Visa or "Remotely from Georgia" immigration program that was recently introduced!
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