When planning a visit to Georgia, it’s essential to understand the various types of visas available for foreign nationals. The Georgian government offers several visa categories tailored to the purpose of your visit, ranging from short-term stays to long-term settlement options. Below is a detailed overview of the different types of visas you can apply for when visiting Georgia.
1. Georgia Diplomatic Visa (Category A)
The Georgia Diplomatic Visa is designed specifically for foreign diplomats who are visiting the country for official diplomatic purposes. This visa is also extended to the immediate family members of the diplomat. It ensures that diplomats and their families can carry out their duties in Georgia without any hindrance.
2. Georgia Special Visa (Category B)
The Georgia Special Visa caters to a specific group of individuals who are involved in official work or are part of international organizations. This visa category includes:
- Holders of service passports and members of foreign delegations visiting Georgia for work, along with their family members.
- Consular workers, as well as administrative, technical, and service staff of foreign diplomatic missions and international or humanitarian organizations based in Georgia.
- Members of military or peacekeeping forces and individuals involved in international bilateral or multilateral treaties of Georgia.
- Members of missions that contribute to Georgia's benefit.
3. Ordinary Georgia Visa (Category C)
The Ordinary Georgia Visa is the most common type of visa for individuals traveling to Georgia for short-term purposes that do not fall under the diplomatic or special categories. This visa is further divided into the following subcategories:
- Georgia Tourist Visa (C1 Visa): Issued to foreigners traveling to Georgia for tourism-related activities.
- Georgia Visitor Visa (C2 Visa): Granted to foreigners who wish to visit friends and/or family members residing in Georgia.
- Georgia Business Visa (C3 Visa): Designed for foreigners traveling to Georgia for business purposes, including participating in cultural, sports, or educational events, or for journalists.
- Georgia Mission Visa (C4 Visa): Issued to individuals traveling to Georgia as part of a humanitarian mission, especially in life-threatening situations.
4. Georgia Immigration Visa (Category D)
The Georgia Immigration Visa is meant for foreigners who intend to settle in Georgia on a long-term basis. The visa is suitable for various purposes, including work, study, and family reunification. The subcategories include:
- Georgia Work Visa: Issued to foreign nationals who have secured employment in Georgia or are transferring to a Georgian branch of a foreign company.
- Georgia Student Visa: For international students who have been accepted into a Georgian higher education institution.
- Georgia Family Visa: Issued to individuals seeking to join a family member who is a Georgian citizen or legal resident.
5. Georgia Transit Visa (Category T)
The Georgia Transit Visa is intended for visa-required nationals who need to pass through Georgia on their way to a third country. This visa is typically short-term, allowing travelers to transit through Georgia without the need to apply for a full visa for entry into the country.
6. Remotely from Georgia Program
In addition to the standard visa categories, Georgia has introduced a program known as "Remotely from Georgia," which is aimed at remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads. This program allows individuals to live and work remotely from Georgia without the need for a traditional visa, provided they meet specific requirements.
Whether you are a diplomat, a tourist, a student, or someone looking to make Georgia your long-term home, the Georgian government offers a visa option tailored to your needs. Understanding these categories and their specific purposes can help you choose the right visa for your journey to this beautiful and culturally rich country.