For many foreign nationals, property ownership is the starting point for obtaining legal residency in Georgia. The country offers residence permits linked to qualifying property purchases, with different thresholds and permit durations depending on the investment level.
Residency Through Property Purchase
Foreign nationals can obtain a Georgian residence permit through qualifying property ownership. The available options depend on the market value of the property and the type of permit.
The qualifying value is based on the official market valuation of the property, as confirmed by an accredited appraiser. The purchase price stated in the sale agreement does not determine eligibility.
USD 150,000 — Renewable Residence Permit
A foreign national who owns property in Georgia with a market value of at least USD 150,000 may qualify for a short-term residence permit. The permit is issued for one year and can be renewed annually while the qualifying property remains in the applicant's ownership.
After ten years of lawful residence under a temporary residence permit, the holder may apply for a permanent residence permit.
The permit can also be extended to the applicant's spouse and children under Georgian immigration rules.
USD 300,000 — Investment Residence Permit
A property with a market value of at least USD 300,000 can qualify for a five-year investment residence permit. The property must meet the official valuation requirements set by Georgian authorities.
Holders of an investment residence permit may be eligible to apply for an indefinite residence permit after five years, subject to retaining ownership of the qualifying property and meeting the applicable conditions at that time.
Applications can be processed under standard or expedited procedures.
Tax Residency in Georgia
Georgian tax residency is separate from immigration residency. It determines a person's tax status in Georgia and does not itself grant a residence permit or immigration status.
A person can be a Georgian tax resident without holding a Georgian residence permit. Equally, holding a Georgian residence permit through property ownership does not automatically make someone a Georgian tax resident.
Standard Route — 183 Days
A person who spends at least 183 days in Georgia during the relevant period generally becomes a Georgian tax resident under the Tax Code. This applies regardless of whether the person holds a Georgian residence permit.
High-Net-Worth Individual Route
Georgia also has a separate tax residency route for certain high-net-worth individuals who meet specific financial and economic connection-to-Georgia criteria. This route can apply without spending 183 days in the country.
Tax residency has separate implications for income, investments and assets. Anyone considering Georgian tax residency should assess their position based on their individual circumstances.
Business in Georgia
Georgia allows foreign nationals to establish and manage companies without becoming Georgian residents. The registration process is straightforward, and foreign nationals can act as both the founder and director.
A Georgian LLC can generally be registered within one business day when the required documents are in order. There is no minimum share capital requirement, and registration by power of attorney is possible.
Georgia offers several tax regimes depending on the type and structure of the business, including:
- Small Business Status — tax rate from 1%, subject to eligibility requirements
- IT companies — special tax incentives for qualifying activities
- Free Industrial Zones — specific tax benefits for eligible businesses
- Standard LLCs — corporate tax generally applies when profits are distributed
Georgia Residency by Investment
Georgia remains one of the most attractive destinations for investors, entrepreneurs and those seeking an additional jurisdiction for living, doing business or managing personal assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners buy property in Georgia?
Yes. Foreign nationals can purchase property in Georgia, and qualifying property can be used to apply for a residence permit if the applicable market value threshold is met.
Does buying property automatically give permanent residency?
No. Property that meets the USD 150,000 threshold can qualify the owner for a renewable one-year residence permit. Permanent residency has separate requirements, including ten years of lawful residence under a temporary permit.
Does a Georgian residence permit make someone a tax resident?
No. A residence permit gives the holder legal status in Georgia, but does not automatically create Georgian tax residency. Tax residency is determined separately, primarily through the 183-day rule or the HNWI route. This distinction is important for investors considering Georgia for both residency and tax planning.
Can foreigners open a company in Georgia?
Yes. Foreign nationals can establish and manage a Georgian company without holding Georgian citizenship or a residence permit. An LLC can generally be registered within one business day, with no minimum share capital.
Is there a minimum stay requirement for a property-based residence permit?
No. The holder does not need to spend a minimum number of days in Georgia each year. The permit is linked to ownership of the qualifying property. The 183-day rule applies to tax residency, not the residence permit.
