Moving to Georgia: A Guide for Expats to Live Here (2025)

Thinking about moving to Georgia?

I lived in Georgia a few years ago and fell in love with the country. This was also one of the very first countries where I started my digital nomad life. I first heard about Georgia from my expat friend. He said that Georgia is a great country for digital nomads because of its affordable cost of living, quality of life, and proximity to the EU.

I was hesitant at first. Then I made the decision, and it turned out to be a great one. I quickly fell in love with the country.

And now, Georgia is just getting more popular. I consider the country a hidden gem for digital nomads. It’s easy to move here since many nationalities can stay for a year without needing a visa.

As a plus, the country has a very attractive deal for startup entrepreneurs, where you can easily set up a business within a day and pay an income tax of just 1%.

In this article, I’m going to guide you through everything you need to know about moving to Georgia, including the pros and cons, where to live, the lifestyle you get, how to find a place to rent, and more. Let’s dive in.

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Pros and Cons

First things first, let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of living in Georgia.

Pros

Affordable Living: Georgia still has a relatively low cost of living compared to many places. Granted, it is not as low as it was 5–10 years ago, but it’s still relatively reasonable for a US or Canadian remote worker. The average single person can live comfortably on less than US$1,500 a month.

Natural Beauty: Georgia has mountains, beaches, and countryside all within reach. It has a little of everything. Getting around Georgia is relatively easy; you can take marshrutkas (minibuses) for next to nothing. You can also opt for a more comfortable shared taxi. There is now a modern Swiss train that goes from Tbilisi to Batumi.

Friendly Locals: Georgians are known for hospitality and generosity. Compared to other places, such as Spain or Greece, which are becoming increasingly tired of tourists and digital nomads, Georgians are relatively welcoming to them.

Safety: The crime rate is relatively low. There is little danger for the average tourist or traveler to encounter. The most significant danger is crossing some streets. However, drivers are a bit crazy.

Visa-Free Entry: Many nationalities can stay visa-free for up to a year. You can simply leave for somewhere like Turkey or Armenia for a day, and it resets. You can also fly somewhere in Europe relatively cheaply from Kutaisi. It automatically resets. It also attracts a diverse group of nomads and expats, as many nationalities are welcome. You can meet a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds with interesting stories.

Digital Nomad-Friendly: Working remotely from Georgia is incredibly easy. The Wi-Fi speeds are fast. No visa is needed. You can easily set up a company if you wish to do so. It’s still relatively affordable. There’s a lot to see, and if you’re one of those who want to do something every weekend, your schedule will be well-rounded.

Cons

Language Barrier: Georgian and Russian are the dominant languages, while many Georgians have political issues with Russia. Many of them still speak it better than English. English is limited outside major cities. Learning Georgian is very difficult. If you are a native English speaker and only speak English, learning a foreign language like this can be relatively complex.

Integration Isn’t Always Easy: While Georgians are very welcoming people, trying to become part of their society can be a more challenging endeavor. They are on the socially conservative side of things, so it could present a challenge to those who want to be “local.” It has a bit of an expat bubble, but this isn’t that different from other places with a lot of foreigners and digital nomads.

Healthcare Limitations: Most foreigners aren’t eligible for public insurance, and the public healthcare can be mediocre. While private plans are affordable, obtaining specialist care can be a hassle. The bedside manner is also less than desirable. While Georgia aims to raise the quality of its healthcare to the same level as in Europe, it still has some way to go.

Infrastructure Gaps: Internet and utilities outside main cities can be lacking. Road safety is still far from ideal. It isn’t recommended to drive, especially if you are new. However, public transportation is quite good.

Air Quality in Tbilisi: It is occasionally poor due to traffic and the use of heating methods.

Political Changes: Georgia is divided between its geopolitical transition to Western institutions and its desire to remain within a more conservative Orthodox realm. It is very politically polarized, like many parts of the world. The end of 2024 saw daily demonstrations. However, it has little to do with foreigners.

Cost of Living

The cost of living varies per person based on their consumption, but here is a quick overview of the costs.

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Food and groceries are inexpensive by Western standards. Monthly grocery bills for a single person typically range from US$200 to US$350 per month. Eating out is also budget-friendly: a meal at a modest restaurant costs around US$5–US$10, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant ranges from US$35 to US$60. Fresh produce is abundant and cheap, with local markets often offering better prices than supermarkets.

Transportation is efficient and affordable. A monthly public transport pass costs approximately US$15, while taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely used, with short trips typically costing under US$5. Gasoline prices hover around US$1 per liter.

Healthcare is a growing sector in Georgia. Basic medical visits typically cost between US$20 and US$40, while private health insurance premiums can range from US$30 to US$60 per month, depending on the coverage.

Utilities

Are generally between US$30 and US$60. Most places that you rent have the price included in the full rental price, so you often don’t have to deal with that yourself.

The average monthly income in Georgia is around US$550–US$600, which supports a modest lifestyle for locals. A single digital nomad or expat can expect to spend between US$800 and US$1,500, depending on how much they want to splurge. For a family of four, the monthly spending is around US$2,500–US$3,500.

Living Standards

Georgia offers a high quality of life at a reasonable cost. Cities such as Tbilisi and Batumi offer modern infrastructure, fast internet, and growing international communities. The cost of living is low compared to many European cities.

When I spent my time there, I was able to live comfortably as a single nomad for under US$1,000. However, it has been a few years, so prices have increased—but that’s been the case for many places over the last two or three years. The prices are still within range for a nomad to live comfortably.

The country is also safe, with low crime rates and a warm, welcoming culture. It boasts some world-class food. During the Soviet era, the cuisine was by far the most popular. Georgia is also known as the “Land of Milk and Honey” to many of these former republics. In addition, the country boasts a wealth of natural beauty, from its majestic mountains in the north to its stunning coastline in the west.

While Georgian is one of the most challenging languages to learn, English is widely spoken in cities, especially among younger people.

Overall, Georgia ticks many boxes in terms of affordability, safety, and cultural richness. It is suitable for the short-term undecided nomad or one who wants to establish long-term roots.

Healthcare: The quality of public hospitals still has a long way to go. Many expats don’t have the best stories; however, some insist that they are perfectly fine. I would wager that more are displeased with it. Doctors and nurses will likely not speak English unless the hospital is connected to a medical school.

They are not quite on par with hospitals in the West. One person I know was given Ivermectin during the COVID pandemic before the vaccines were ready.

Therefore, a majority of expats in Georgia prefer visiting private hospitals for a more comfortable experience. There are also private hospitals that cater to international clients. While the cost of treatment there is significantly lower by American standards, it is pricey by Georgian standards.

Here’s a list of some of the modern medical facilities staffed by English-speaking professionals preferred by expats in Georgia:

• American Medical Centers: Offers 24-hour urgent care and specialty services
  
• MediClub Georgia: Offers international-standard medical care 24/7
  
• Jo Ann University Hospital: A teaching hospital affiliated with European University, specializing in pediatric cardiology
  

While healthcare quality in major cities is generally high, rural areas may have limited facilities and resources.

Good to know: If you take a special psych med, make sure to stock up before you leave. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask your doctor to write a note certifying that these medications are prescribed for you, which will help avoid any incidents. Georgia is a little behind on the subject of psych meds compared to a lot of Western countries. You can find a psychiatrist, but it may be an expensive and lengthy endeavor to be referred to one.

Insurance Options

Here’s an overview of insurance options in Georgia for expats.

Public Insurance

The country’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program primarily serves Georgian citizens and certain vulnerable groups. Consequently, foreigners are generally not eligible for free or subsidized public healthcare services. However, they can have access to emergency services in public hospitals, but they will still need to pay for the treatment themselves.

Local Private Insurance

Several Georgian insurance companies offer health plans to foreigners without requiring a residence permit. Basic plans start around US$14.50–US$25 per month, with more comprehensive coverage available at higher premiums. These plans often cover both outpatient and inpatient services. If you have more chronic issues or have long-term plans, this might be worth considering.

International Health Insurance

This is the most popular option among expats and digital nomads. The overall coverage is better than local plans. In addition, international health insurance policies can provide additional benefits, including medical evacuation and coverage in other countries.

It’s a good idea to have some type of insurance for peace of mind. It can be private insurance or travel insurance. Neither option is costly. It’s better than being uninsured and paying for the cost of treatment yourself. Some emergency procedures, surgeries, or evacuations can be expensive.

Also, you should familiarize yourself with local medical services to ensure access to necessary care during your stay in Georgia.

Job Opportunities

Finding a regular job in Georgia can be quite challenging. Most nomads or expats who live there have some type of online work lined up. Many of them teach English online or work for a company in their home country.

Anyway, here are some types of jobs that are popular among expats in Georgia:

IT Jobs

Georgia has a growing IT sector, especially in Tbilisi and Batumi. There are currently available positions in software development, web development, UX/UI design, and technical support. There are a fair number of startups, outsourcing firms, and remote work for international clients. Many tech jobs don’t require fluency in the Georgian language if you speak English or Russian. However, the salary if you work for a Georgian company will be dramatically lower than a remote job for a Western company.

Hospitality and Tourism

These are other sectors open to foreigners. There are some opportunities in hotels, tour companies, restaurants, and as guides or content creators. However, while English is desired, preference is given to multilinguals who can speak Russian, German, or other widely spoken languages. Monolinguals are less desired.

Teaching English

This is one of the most reliable and established ways to work abroad, and it’s similar in Georgia. There is a high demand for English teachers in both private and public schools. Programs like “Teach and Learn with Georgia” (TLG) have recruited native English speakers to teach in schools. Some high schools in Georgia will hire native English teachers.

There is also the prospect of private lessons. However, rates are not very high. Some of the programs offer a mere stipend, whereas language school rates can be around US$7–US$10 per hour.

NGOs and International Organizations

A faction of foreigners in Georgia holds jobs with NGOs. However, a lot of NGO work is voluntary or underpaid. Organizations such as the UNDP, USAID, GIZ, and other NGOs often operate in Georgia, offering paid roles in development, policy, environment, and human rights.

Please note: With the recent cuts to USAID, many of these projects have been discontinued, so this form of work is currently limited.

Tip: If you know how to speak Georgian, your chances of getting a job, and your salary, tend to be higher than those who can’t.

Working Online or Freelancing

While job opportunities in Georgia aren’t that great, what attracts expats and digital nomads to move to Georgia are business and freelancing opportunities.

To give you an idea, many nationalities can just fly to Georgia and do their remote work for 1 year without having to apply for a visa.

For those with SMEs, it’s possible to set up a business here within a day and enjoy a 1% tax rate.

Here are some more details about it.

Business Registration

Registering a business in Georgia is a fast, simple, and cost-effective process. The process typically takes just one day and costs around 100 GEL (~US$35), or 200 GEL (~US$70) for same-day registration.

You can register at any Public Service Hall or online through the National Agency of Public Registry. Required documents include a valid ID or passport, a chosen company name, a legal address, and company structure—most commonly an LLC. Georgia also offers registration for individual entrepreneurs and foreign branches.

After registration, businesses must obtain a tax number and register for VAT if applicable. The process is streamlined and business-friendly.

Tax Benefits

Georgia offers significant tax benefits for businesses and individuals. Free Industrial Zones offer near-total tax exemptions. Individual entrepreneurs can qualify for a 1% tax rate on income up to 500,000 GEL, which is roughly US$190,000.

Freelancing

Georgia permits citizens from over 95 countries, including EU nations, the UK, and the USA, to stay visa-free for up to 365 days. During this period, individuals can legally work as freelancers, provided their income originates from sources outside the country.

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However, you can’t do part-time jobs or work for a Georgian company.

Also, freelancers can formalize their activities by registering as an Individual Entrepreneur (IE) in Georgia.

Small Business Status

Eligible IEs can opt for this status, which allows them to pay a reduced tax rate of 1% on their annual turnover, up to 500,000 GEL (approximately US$190,000). If this threshold is exceeded, the tax rate increases to 3%.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

For individuals seeking liability protection, forming an LLC is a viable option for providing limited liability. Notably, there are no residency requirements for directors or shareholders, and the process is relatively uncomplicated.

However, it’s essential to stay informed about tax obligations and ensure that your freelance activities align with Georgian regulations. Engaging with local professionals can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

Language

Georgian is the spoken language of the country. While many Georgians are familiar with Russian, it is becoming increasingly unpopular due to political reasons.

I had an experience where my limited Russian was better than a server’s English, but they still refused to speak Russian. Many younger people will prefer English to Russian. However, many older people will be familiar with the Russian language. It’s possible to get by with just English, but it’s handy to learn another language or learn some basic words in Georgian or Russian.

Safety

Georgia is one of the safest countries in its region. It has a low crime rate and strong public order. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime like pickpocketing is less common than in many European countries. Most people, including solo travelers and expatriates, feel safe walking alone at night in major cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi.

Police are visible and generally trusted. Significant reforms over the past two decades have cut corruption and improved public safety. The country ranks high on global safety indexes for locals and tourists. The police have been brutal to Georgian protestors, but again, it doesn’t have much of an impact on a nomad.

However, road safety is a concern. Driving can be aggressive, and traffic laws are often not followed. You should especially be careful when crossing streets, particularly in areas outside major urban centers. I once almost got hit by a car while doing it.

Overall, aside from a few exceptions, Georgia offers a generally safe living environment with minimal personal security risks. It is especially favored by expats and digital nomads for its safety, hospitality, and affordability.

Weather

Georgia has a diverse range of climates and varies by region.

In the east, around Tbilisi where I spend most of my time, summers can get seriously hot and dry. Some days hit over 35°C. Winters are cold but not extreme. It hovers around freezing, and while you do get some snow, it’s usually not that heavy. Spring and fall are my favorite seasons. The weather’s perfect, and the city’s way more enjoyable during those months.

Now, if you head up to the mountains, places like Kazbegi or Mestia, it’s a whole different story. Summers there are short and cool, and winters are long, freezing, and packed with snow. It’s a great spot for skiing or just enjoying the snow without the Alps price tag.

Over on the coast in Batumi, it feels almost tropical. Summers are warm and humid, with a lot more rain. Winters are mild and damp. Because of all the rain, the area stays green year-round.

Visa

Georgia has a simple scheme. Citizens from over 90 countries, including those from the EU, the US, the UK, and most of the Schengen Area, can enter visa-free for up to one year. It can easily be reset if you take a quick trip to a neighboring country, such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, or Armenia. You can come back right after a day and get another year’s visa-free entry. It’s also not a bad idea to check out some of the other Caucasus countries.

In reality, most people can stay as long as they like without needing to obtain a residence permit or visa. A residence permit is only necessary for individuals with weaker passports or those seeking to establish a semi-permanent presence in Georgia.

Individuals can get temporary residence permits in several ways:

• Work or Business: You need a valid employment contract or proof of business activity.
  
• Real Estate Ownership: Owning non-agricultural property worth at least USD 100,000 grants a one-year permit, which is renewable.
  
• Family Reunification: This is for spouses, minor children, and dependent parents of Georgian citizens or residents.
  
• Investment of US$300,000: You can get a five-year residence permit, renewable indefinitely, by investing in real estate or business. For real estate, you must hold the property for a minimum of five years. Business investments require a specific annual return on investment.

Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Normally, you must live in Georgia with a temporary residence permit for six years before applying for PR.
However, under the investment residence permit, you can apply for permanent residency after just five years, but only if you meet specific conditions:

• Your investment must still meet the ongoing requirements (e.g. property held or business turnover thresholds).
  
• You must prove that you’ve legally and continuously resided in Georgia for at least five consecutive years.
  
• You must show ties to Georgia, such as ongoing investment, a local address, and sometimes basic Georgian language skills (rarely enforced but technically part of the process).

You can pursue Georgian citizenship after ten years of continuous legal residence, with language and cultural knowledge requirements. Georgia isn’t an EU member, but it is a candidate. However, it is likely to take many years for this to happen, if it does, so if you are looking for a pathway to a second citizenship, this isn’t recommended and may be more trouble than it’s worth.

Accommodation

Rent prices are not what they were a few years ago. They can be as high as in some European capital cities. A lot of this has to do with well-off Russian IT workers who fled Russian conscription for the Ukraine war or Russians opposed to Putin’s policies. This has deterred many Georgians. However, landlords still accept their inflated rent offers.

Rent is usually cheaper if you book for a month or two at a time. Often, finding something online, such as through Airbnb or Booking.com, for the first month or so is a better idea, as it allows you to see the flat yourself before signing a longer lease. However, many landlords will let you sign shorter ones at a time, so it’s beneficial for “uncommitted nomads” in this aspect. They often do not ask for a deposit either.

While many Airbnb leases drop the price if you book for months, you can find a better deal by joining social media groups, such as “Expats in Georgia,” and connecting with people who rent out their flats at a lower rate. Many people advertise flats and flatshares on Facebook. A couple of popular rental sites that have fair prices are Myhome and Your move.

Below is the average cost of what rent is supposed to be. However, certain factors have contributed to the price rise.

Today, the average price for a one-bedroom apartment in central Tbilisi is US$760. Outside the center, the price drops to US$500. Finding a flatshare in Tbilisi can cost between US$200 and US$400, depending on the area and your luck.

As you move away from the capital, rent becomes even cheaper. In Batumi, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs US$530, and on the outskirts, it’s only US$390. In other cities, it is even less.

Property Purchases

Buying property in Georgia is a straightforward and welcoming process for foreigners. You don’t need residency or citizenship to purchase real estate such as apartments, commercial properties, or buildings. However, foreigners cannot purchase agricultural land directly, except under exceptional circumstances or through a Georgian company.

The process is fast and transparent. You find a property, check ownership details through the Public Registry, sign a purchase agreement (usually notarized), and register the new ownership. Registration can be completed in one business day.

Popular areas include Tbilisi for city living and rentals, Batumi for tourism and beachfront property, and Gudauri or Bakuriani for ski resorts.

However, while it’s a straightforward process, buying property isn’t yet popular among expats in Georgia. This may be because they plan to stay only temporarily without having plans to move here permanently. But this may change in the future.

Where to Live in Georgia

Tbilisi, the capital, is popular for a good reason. It has a good East-meets-West feel to it. There is a lot to do. Everything is convenient. Public transportation is efficient and affordable. While Georgian food is some of the best in the world, you can also find other cuisines once you get tired of it.

Although it is the most expensive place to live in Georgia, expats from North America or the EU can still live there relatively comfortably.

Overview of Tbilisi Neighborhoods

Old Tbilisi (Sololaki)

Also known as Sololaki, this area is characterized by cobbled streets and traditional architecture. It features a mix of Byzantine, Persian, Georgian, and Ottoman-style architecture. You can find churches, mosques, and synagogues. It is attractive for short-term expats and tourists. However, it can get annoying as it is in the center of everything. Russians are often blamed for buying up all of the suitable places. Additionally, although it has many historic buildings, they often do not function properly and require regular maintenance and repairs.

Vake

It’s the most affluent part of town and known to be quite posh. It’s rather green, with many cafes, parks (such as Vake Park), embassies, and international schools. This is where diplomats reside, as well as those who come with international jobs and their families. Rich Georgians also choose this area to reside in. It offers a wide range of choices, including wine bars and international restaurants. The downside is that it is not conveniently located near a metro.

Vera

It’s the most sought-after area among nomads for a good reason. That was where I stayed during my time. It is trendy and walkable, with a mix of old Tbilisi charm, art spaces, and boutique shops. However, it is far enough away for some peace. It has the best of all worlds, in my opinion. It can be pricey, as it’s one of the more popular options, comparable in price to Vake. Unlike Vake, it is conveniently situated close to Rustaveli metro station. It’s within walking distance to the old town, making it a better choice. It offers a wide range of choices for coworking spaces as well.

Saburtalo

This area is more residential and modern than the others on this list. It features many apartment buildings from the Soviet era and direct metro access. This area attracts more of the “lifers” than shorter-term nomads. It offers a wide range of amenities, including gyms, cafes, and restaurants. Many buses and marshrutkas depart from here to travel to other locations around Georgia. One complaint is that it can be rather loud and feel a bit too dense. Traffic is quite bad.

Marjanishvili

Marjanishvili is an up-and-coming historic neighborhood on the east bank of the Kura River, just across from Rustaveli. It is famous for its Art Nouveau buildings and has undergone significant renovation and gentrification, particularly around the Fabrika complex. It has the Fabrika complex, which is a hit with foreigners and locals alike. It’s walkable to the center. The downside is that it has less green space, and traffic there can be annoying.

Places That Are Not Tbilisi

Batumi

It is the primary city on the coast. It has a nice downtown area, and if you enjoy casinos, this place is for you. It’s called the “Las Vegas of the Black Sea.” It also features a subtropical climate and has one of the best botanical gardens in Georgia, if not the best. It has a lot of interesting modern architecture as well, such as the Alphabet Tower, which contrasts with a lot of its 19th-century buildings.

The downsides are that it can be overly touristy in the summer. While it has beaches, they aren’t the best on the Black Sea.

Kutaisi

This might be for the more introverted or seasoned nomad. It is Georgia’s second-largest city. It’s less busy than Tbilisi, but it’s big enough to find what you need. There are spa towns nearby, such as Borjomi. The prices are much lower, so your money goes even further.

Also, if you have the travel bug, there are countless flights to Europe and the Middle East with the low-budget carrier Wizz Air. Flights can be as low as 20 euros to cities like Vienna and Budapest. It’s also relatively easy to get to Tbilisi, as there are several ways to reach it and numerous shuttle services, given that many people use the airport from Europe. It’s also relatively quick to get to Batumi, so you can have the best of both worlds as an easy weekend getaway.

Signaghi

This might be a good choice for an older nomad or the eco-nomad looking to engage in some artisanal craft, such as winemaking. It is a scenic hilltop town in eastern Georgia, located in the Kakheti region, referred to as the “City of Love.” Many people say it’s the prettiest town in Georgia. It also has what many US expats in Georgia consider to be the best Mexican restaurant in the country. Things also run well. It’s becoming a more popular choice, although it might be boring after a few days to some nomads. Getting by with just English would be a challenge compared to the other three main cities.

Mountain Towns (examples: Kazbegi, Mestia)

These are beautiful places, but they are also very isolated. They are honestly better suited for a visit. Unless you are starting up an ecotourism business, it isn’t suitable. Internet speeds can be slow, and locals may be more territorial than those in the rest of Georgia. Unless you are a passionate mountaineer, it is not an ideal location for a digital nomad.

Bank Account

Opening a bank account is relatively easy in Georgia, although it is not strictly necessary if you are working remotely from the state. If you have a Wise or Revolut account, it should work without any problems. It’s not worth it if you are planning to be there for just a few months.

However, if you plan to stay semi-permanently, it might be worth it. The process is less annoying than in other places. Georgia’s banking sector is foreigner-friendly, with major banks like TBC Bank, Bank of Georgia, and Liberty Bank offering services in English and accommodating international clients.

To open an account, you typically need a valid passport, a Georgian phone number, and sometimes proof of address (like a rental agreement or utility bill). Some banks may also ask for information about your source of funds to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. Most banks allow walk-in applications, and the process is usually completed within an hour.

While traditionally done in person, some banks now offer online applications, particularly for residents or those who can verify their identity remotely. If you’re outside Georgia and need an account, you can authorize a representative through a Power of Attorney to handle the process on your behalf.

Georgia does not impose currency controls, and accounts can be opened in multiple currencies, including the Georgian Lari, the US Dollar, and the Euro. There is often no requirement to deposit a minimum balance, although this varies by bank.

Phone and Internet

When traveling or living in Georgia (the country), obtaining a local SIM card is easy, affordable, and highly recommended. The mobile coverage is excellent, and data costs are low.

The three leading mobile network operators are MagtiCom, Silknet (formerly Geocell), and Cellfie (formerly Beeline). Each offers prepaid SIM cards with good data plans, coverage, and LTE/4G speeds.

MagtiCom is the most reliable network, especially outside major cities. It offers the best rural coverage and strong data speeds, making it perfect for exploring mountainous areas. Silknet also provides solid coverage and competitive packages. Cellfie usually has the lowest rates but offers less rural coverage.

You can buy SIM cards at airports (Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi), shopping malls, or official stores in cities. Please bring your passport to register the SIM, as required by local regulations. Activation is quick, and staff often speak basic English. Prices are low—expect to pay about 5–10 GEL (US$2–US$4) for the SIM and 10–20 GEL (US$4–US$8) for 5–10 GB of data valid for 30 days.
All three carriers offer eSIM options for newer phones and tourist SIM packages for short stays. You can top up easily via mobile apps, ATMs, or local convenience stores.

Georgia has widespread 4G/LTE coverage, with 5G slowly rolling out in major cities. Mobile internet is fast, reliable, and widely used for navigation and streaming. If you’re a digital nomad or remote worker, using a local SIM with a Wi-Fi router is a popular and cost-effective choice.

Taxes

Georgia offers significant tax benefits for businesses and individuals. Corporate tax is 15%, but only on distributed profits, allowing reinvestment tax-free. Personal income tax is a flat rate of 20%, and dividends are taxed at a rate of just 5%.

IT firms can apply for Virtual Zone or International Company status, which reduces corporate tax to 0–5% and eliminates dividend taxes. Free Industrial Zones offer near-total tax exemptions.

Individual entrepreneurs can qualify for a 1% tax rate on income up to 500,000 GEL.

Social Life

Social life as a digital nomad or expat in Georgia can be great. It attracts a diverse mix of adventurous people from around the world, thanks to its liberal visa policy. On the other hand, it can also attract some shady expats who were unable to obtain a visa in other places. However, most people who decide on Georgia are interesting and adventurous individuals who want to live abroad, where it isn’t a complicated ordeal.

You can check Facebook for expat groups in Georgia, particularly in Tbilisi. There are several of them. Couchsurfing has a large number of people, both foreign and local, who enjoy meeting up with others. Telegram also has some meetup groups. There is no shortage of social activities in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi.

Checklist

Below is a quick checklist of what you need when moving to Georgia:

• Valid Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
  
• Health Insurance (international or Georgian private plan)
  
• Open a Multi-currency Bank Account (e.g., Wise or Revolut, for early transfers)
  
• Understand Local Cost of Living (budget for 3–6 months if you don’t have a job)
  
• Tax Residency Considerations (consult if earning abroad or opening a business)
  
• Temporary Accommodation Booked (Airbnb or short-term rental)
  
• Long-term Rental Research (platforms like SS.ge or local Facebook groups)
  
• SIM Card & Mobile Plan (Magti, Silknet, or Beeline are reliable; you can get them at the airport)
  
• Vaccinations Up to Date (standard + consider Hepatitis A/B, rabies)
  
• Medical Records (if you have something chronic that needs regular attention)
  
• Medications Supply (bring a 3-month supply + prescriptions)
  
• International Driving Permit (if planning to drive—but honestly, driving there is a nightmare)
  
• Laptop/Electronics (with correct plug adapter – Georgia uses EU plugs; electronics are also expensive there)
  
• Scan and Back Up Important Documents (education certificate, employment certificate, birth certificate, and so on)

Should I Move to Georgia?

In my opinion, Georgia is an underrated country. Not many people think about it. While it’s not as popular as countries like Thailand or Mexico, Georgia has its own charm. The cost of living is great. The city is beautiful. The visa is easy. It’s also close to the EU, making it a good option if you are from the EU and don’t want to be far from your country.

Additionally, Georgia is becoming a hub for digital nomads and solo entrepreneurs. It’s very easy to set up a business here, and you can also enjoy a 1% tax benefit, which is a deal that’s hard to beat.