New Work Permit Georgia 2026

Table of Contents

1. Who Needs a Work Permit in 2026?
2. Key Deadlines You Must Know
3. How to Apply: Employers vs. Self-Employed
4. 2026 Quotas and Restrictions
5. Fines and Sanctions for Non-Compliance

1. Who Needs a Work Permit in 2026?

The new Law on Labour Migration applies to any “Alien with no permit for permanent residence.” This includes:

• Employees: Anyone hired by a Georgian company.
• Self-Employed/Entrepreneurs: Individual Entrepreneurs (Small Status), partners in a company, or independent contractors.
• Remote Workers: Even if you work remotely for a local employer, you need the right to work.

Exemptions: You do not need this permit if you hold an Investment Residence Permit, are a refugee, or work for a diplomatic mission.

2. Key Deadlines You Must Know

The government has set specific dates for different groups to comply:

• March 1, 2026: New regulations officially enter into force.
• May 1, 2026: Enforcement starts for those already running businesses or working in Georgia before March 1.
• January 1, 2027: Deadline for those already registered in the Ministry’s database to fully transition to the new permit system.

3. How to Apply for your Work Permit Georgia 2026: Employers vs. Self-Employed

The process depends on your employment status. All applications are handled via labourmigration.moh.gov.ge.

For Employees (Local Employer Path)

Your employer must prove they couldn’t find a Georgian citizen for the role:

1. Job Posting: The employer must post the vacancy on worknet.moh.gov.ge for at least 10 business days.
2. Agency Review: If no local candidate is found, the employer applies for your Work Permit Georgia 2026.
3. Approval: The State Employment Support Agency decides within 30 days (or 10 days for an accelerated fee).

For Self-Employed Expats

If you are an entrepreneur or partner:

1. Direct Application: You apply personally through the portal labourmigration.moh.gov.ge.
2. Documentation: Provide proof of your entrepreneurial activity.
3. Video Interview: You must undergo a video interview with the Agency to confirm your status.
   

4. 2026 Quotas and Restrictions

The government has introduced annual quotas for specific fields. For 2026, the quotas are very strict:

1. Courier Services: 0 (No new permits)
2. Passenger Transport (Taxis): 0
3. Tour Guides: 0
4. Mountain/Ski Guides: 200

If you work in Information Technology (IT), you have an advantage. The Work Permit Georgia 2026 for IT professionals can be granted for up to 3 years, whereas other fields are usually limited to 1 year.

5. Fines and Sanctions for Non-Compliance

Ignoring these rules can be expensive. The Labour Inspection Service monitors compliance:

• 2,000 GEL Fine: For the employer (per employee) and 2,000 GEL for the foreign worker.
• 4,000 GEL Fine: For repeated violations.
• Termination: Working outside your specific job title or employer can result in immediate cancellation of your permit.

Next Steps After Getting Your Permit

Once you receive the “Right to Work,” you have 10 days to apply for your Work Residence Permit at the Public Service Hall (Justice House). If you are outside Georgia, you have 30 days to apply for a D1 Immigration Visa.

Need Professional Help? Navigating Georgian labor laws can be complex. At Flex Accounting, we help international clients manage their tax and legal compliance. Contact us today for a consultation on your 2026 work rights. Don’t wait until the deadline to secure your Work Permit Georgia 2026.

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the Official Government Ordinance. Laws can change; always consult with a professional accountant or lawyer.