Europe – Georgia Visa

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Georgia as a European citizen?

Yes, as a European citizen, you will need a valid passport to enter Georgia. However, if you are a citizen of the EU, Switzerland, Norway or Iceland, you can enter Georgia without a visa and stay for up to one year.

2. Do I need to purchase travel insurance for my trip to Georgia?
It is not mandatory to have travel insurance for entering Georgia, but it is highly recommended. In case of any unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies or lost baggage, travel insurance can provide financial security and peace of mind while traveling.

3. What currency is used in Georgia?
The official currency of Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL). It is best to exchange your currency into GEL upon arrival in Georgia. Most major currencies such as Euro and US Dollar can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices throughout the country.

4. What vaccinations do I need for travelling to Georgia?
There are no specific vaccinations required for traveling to Georgia. However, it is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and flu.

5. Is English widely spoken in Georgia?
English proficiency varies among locals in different regions of Georgia with larger cities having a higher level of English proficiency compared to rural areas. Generally, most people working in the tourism industry will have basic knowledge of English. Knowing some basic phrases in Georgian or Russian can also be helpful.

6. What should I wear when visiting religious sites in Georgia?

When visiting religious sites in Georgia, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for the culture and traditions. This means covering your shoulders and legs with clothing that falls below the knee. Women may also be required to cover their heads with a scarf when entering certain religious sites.

7.O Is it safe to drink tap water in Georgia?
The tap water in major cities and towns in Georgia is generally safe to drink. However, it is recommended to stick to bottled water in more rural areas. Also, be cautious of consuming any uncooked or unpeeled fruits and vegetables as they may have been washed with tap water.

8. What is the best time to visit Georgia?

The best time to visit Georgia depends on your personal preferences and planned activities. Generally, the peak tourism season runs from June to September when the weather is warm and there are various festivals and events happening. The shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November can also be good times to visit with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Winter sports enthusiasts may want to visit between December-March for skiing opportunities.

9. Can I use my credit/debit cards in Georgia?

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas in Georgia, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash (in local currency) for smaller purchases, especially when traveling outside of urban areas.

10. What are some must-try dishes in Georgian cuisine?

Some must-try dishes in Georgian cuisine include khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), kebabs, and lobio (bean stew). Wines from the Kakheti region are also highly recommended as Georgia has a rich winemaking history dating back thousands of years.

2. How do I apply for a Georgian visa?

To apply for a Georgian visa, follow these steps:

1. Determine your visa type: Georgia offers various types of visas such as tourist visa, business visa, student visa, transit visa, etc. Visit the website of the Embassy or Consulate of Georgia in your country to determine which visa type you need.

2. Gather required documents: The documents you will need to provide may vary based on the type of visa you are applying for. Typically, you will need a valid passport, completed application form, proof of travel arrangements and accommodation in Georgia, proof of sufficient funds for your stay, and an invitation letter (if applicable).

3. Complete the online application form: You can find the online application form on the website of the Embassy or Consulate of Georgia in your country. Fill out all required fields with accurate information.

4. Pay the visa fee: The cost of a Georgian visa may vary depending on your nationality and type of visa. Check with the Embassy or Consulate for their current fees and accepted payment methods.

5. Make an appointment: Some Georgian Embassies or Consulates require applicants to schedule an appointment before submitting their documents. Contact them to book an appointment if necessary.

6. Submit your application and supporting documents: On the day of your appointment or according to the instructions provided by the Embassy/Consulate, submit your application form along with all required documents.

7. Wait for processing: The processing time for a Georgian visa may vary depending on your nationality and type of visa requested. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

8. Collect your passport: Once your application has been processed and approved, you will be asked to collect your passport from the Embassy/Consulate or it will be mailed back to you.

Note: This is a general guideline for applying for a Georgian Visa; requirements and procedures may vary depending on your country. It is important that you check with the Embassy or Consulate in your country for specific instructions and procedures.

3. What documents do I need to submit along with my visa application?


The documents required for a visa application may vary depending on the country you are applying to and the type of visa you need. However, some common documents that are usually required include:

1. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay in the country.
2. Completed visa application form.
3. Passport-sized photos according to the specifications of the embassy or consulate.
4. Proof of travel/flight itinerary.
5. Proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings or invitation letter from a host if staying with friends or family.
6. Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, or traveler’s checks.
7. Travel medical insurance covering the duration and purpose of your trip.
8. Letter of employment or enrollment from your school/university (if applicable).
9. Invitation letter from business partners for a business visa (if applicable).
10. Any other supporting documents requested by the embassy/consulate.

It is important to check with the specific embassy or consulate for their exact requirements before submitting your application.

4. Is there an online visa application process available for Georgia?


Yes, there is an e-visa application process available for certain types of visas to Georgia. You can apply for an e-visa through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia’s website or through the online portal of Georgian visa facilitation centers in your country. This process allows you to fill out and submit your visa application online, pay the required fees, and track the status of your application. However, not all types of visas are eligible for online application so it is best to check with the consulate or embassy before applying.

5. What is the processing time for a Georgian visa?


The processing time for a Georgian visa varies depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. It can take anywhere from 5-30 business days for a Georgian visa to be processed. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least 4 weeks in advance of your planned travel date.

6. Can I apply for a visa upon arrival in Georgia?


Yes, some nationalities are eligible to apply for a visa upon arrival in Georgia. These include citizens of certain European and North American countries, as well as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several others. However, it is recommended to check the current regulations and requirements regarding visas upon arrival before traveling to Georgia.

7. Are there any specific vaccination requirements for entering Georgia?


Yes, all travelers entering Georgia must have a valid certificate of vaccination against yellow fever if traveling from or transiting through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before entering the country.
Additionally, it is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza. It is also recommended to consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid.

8. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Georgian visa?

There is no specific age limit for obtaining a Georgian visa. However, minors (under the age of 18) must obtain consent from their parent or legal guardian and may be required to provide additional documentation such as a birth certificate or travel authorization letter. It is recommended to check with the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate for specific requirements for minors.

9. Can I extend my stay in Georgia if my visa expires?


Yes, you can extend your stay in Georgia if your visa expires. You will need to apply for a visa extension at the Public Service Hall or at the Service Agency of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The visa extension will depend on the type of visa you have and if there are any restrictions on extending it. It is best to contact the relevant authorities for more information and to ensure that you remain in compliance with the immigration laws of Georgia.

10. How long is the validity of a Georgian visa once it is issued?


The validity of a Georgian visa varies depending on the type of visa and circumstances. Tourist visas are usually valid for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days from the date of issuance. Business visas can be valid for up to one year, with multiple entries allowed. Student visas are typically valid for the duration of the study program. Please check with your local Georgian embassy or consulate for specific information about your visa’s validity.

11. Can I enter other countries in Europe with a Georgian visa?


No, a visa issued by Georgia is only valid for entry into Georgia. You will need a separate visa or travel authorization for each country you plan to visit in Europe.

12. Do minors require their own visas to travel to Georgia, or can they be included in their parent’s application?

Minors do require their own visas to travel to Georgia. They cannot be included in their parent’s application. Each individual, regardless of age, is required to have their own visa.

13. Is it possible to work or study in Georgia with a tourist/visitor visa from Europe?


No, it is not possible to work or study in Georgia with a tourist/visitor visa from Europe. A tourist/visitor visa only allows for temporary stays for tourism purposes. To work or study in Georgia, you would need to obtain the appropriate work or study visa.

14. Are there any special requirements for business travelers entering Georgia on a business visa from Europe?

There are no specific special requirements for business travelers entering Georgia on a business visa from Europe. Generally, they will need to have a valid passport, the appropriate visa, and may need to provide additional documents such as proof of employment, invitation letter from a company in Georgia, and proof of sufficient funds for their stay. They may also need to register with the relevant authorities upon arrival in Georgia. It is recommended to check with the embassy or consulate of Georgia in their home country for more specific information and requirements.

15. How much does it cost to obtain a Georgian visa as a European citizen?


The cost of a Georgian visa for European citizens is €50 for a single entry visa and €100 for a multiple entry visa.

16. If I have dual citizenship, which passport should I use when applying for a Georgian visa?


You should use whichever passport is most convenient for you to travel with. However, you will need to make sure that you obtain the appropriate visa for your nationality. For example, if you have dual citizenship with both the United States and Canada, you will need to obtain a US or Canadian visa depending on which passport you are using when entering Georgia. Similarly, if you have dual citizenship with France and Morocco, you will need to obtain a French or Moroccan visa depending on which passport you are using when entering Georgia.

17. Can I travel within Georgia with only my European Union identity card, or do I also need my passport?


It is possible to travel within Georgia with only your European Union identity card. However, it is recommended to also carry your passport as a form of additional identification. Some transportation companies or authorities may require a passport for security and immigration purposes. It is always best to check with your airline or other means of transportation before traveling to ensure you have the necessary documents.

18. Are there any restrictions on the types of financial resources that are accepted when applying for a Georgian visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on the types of financial resources that are accepted when applying for a Georgian visa. The applicant must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay in Georgia. Acceptable forms of financial resources include bank statements, credit card statements, proof of employment and salary from the employer, and sponsorship letters if applicable. Cash or traveler’s checks are not accepted as proof of financial resources. Additionally, the funds must be easily accessible and readily available for the duration of the trip. The exact amount required varies depending on the purpose and length of stay in Georgia. It is recommended to check with the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

19.Given the current political situation, are there any safety concerns when traveling to Georgia with a European passport?


At the moment, there are no major safety concerns for European passport holders traveling to Georgia. The political situation in Georgia is relatively stable, but there have been some sporadic protests and demonstrations in recent years. These have generally been peaceful and have not targeted tourists or foreigners. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and stay informed about current events before traveling to any destination. It is also recommended to follow travel advisories issued by your home country’s government during your trip. Overall, Georgia is considered a safe destination for travelers, including those with European passports.

20.Does the type of accommodation booked affect my chances of obtaining a Georgian Visa (e.g., hotel vs Airbnb)?


No, the type of accommodation booked does not affect your chances of obtaining a Georgian Visa. The decision to grant a visa is based on several factors, such as your purpose of visit, financial stability, and ties to your home country. Your choice of accommodation does not play a role in this decision-making process.