Two ways to stay: visa-free vs. Remotely from Georgia
Citizens of around 98 countries can stay up to 365 days visa-free. For many nomads, this alone is enough. Remember: from 1 January 2026, health insurance with coverage from GEL 30,000 is required.
The Remotely from Georgia program offers a 12-month remote-work pathway. Requirements: income of at least USD 2,000 per month OR savings of at least USD 24,000, plus health insurance. It suits those who want a clear, purpose-built status.
Taxes: the famous 1% regime
For self-employed nomads, the headline attraction is the small-business tax regime. An individual entrepreneur with small-business status pays just 1% on turnover for annual turnover up to GEL 500,000. For freelancers, consultants and one-person software businesses, this is one of the lowest effective tax burdens anywhere.
Important: the regime applies to specific eligible activities, exceeding the ceiling changes the rate, and the status must be correctly registered.
Tax residency and the 183-day rule
Spending 183 or more days within a year makes you a Georgian tax resident, regardless of your entry type. Georgia's territorial approach means much foreign-source income is treated favourably. There is also an HNWI route for those who cannot spend half a year in one place.
Banking and money
Open an account with Bank of Georgia or TBC Bank. You will need your passport and sometimes proof of connection to the country (a lease). Both banks offer multi-currency accounts and English-language apps. The lari trades at roughly 2.7 to the dollar. Compliance has tightened, so be ready to explain your source of funds.
Cost of living and lifestyle
Georgia delivers strong value. Tbilisi blends an atmospheric old town with a fast-growing café and coworking scene, while Batumi offers a Black Sea coastline. Rent, food and transport remain affordable by Western standards, internet is fast and widely available.
Setup checklist
1. Buy health insurance from GEL 30,000 before arrival. 2. Enter visa-free or apply for Remotely from Georgia. 3. Get a local SIM (Magti, Silknet or Cloud9) on day one. 4. Open a bank account. 5. If self-employed, register as an individual entrepreneur for the 1% regime. 6. Track your days to manage the 183-day tax residency threshold.
FAQ
Do I need the Remotely from Georgia visa, or is visa-free enough?
For many nomads, the 365-day visa-free stay is sufficient. Remotely suits those who want a dedicated 12-month status and can meet the income requirement.
Is the tax really only 1%?
For small-business individual entrepreneurs with eligible activities and turnover up to GEL 500,000, the rate is 1% on turnover. Check the conditions and exclusions.
What are the income requirements for Remotely from Georgia?
At least USD 2,000 per month in income OR at least USD 24,000 in savings, plus health insurance.
Is the internet good enough for remote work?
Yes, cities offer fast, reliable connections and a growing number of coworking spaces.