Introduction
Georgia, nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has rapidly emerged as one of the world's most attractive destinations for digital nomads and expats. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, exceptional food and wine culture, and incredibly welcoming locals, Georgia offers an outstanding quality of life at a fraction of Western costs. From the bustling streets of Tbilisi to the Black Sea coast of Batumi and the mountain retreats of Kazbegi, Georgia presents diverse options for those looking to experience life in this transformative Caucasian nation.
Important Notice: As of January 2025, Georgia has implemented a new digital nomad visa program offering one year stays with simplified tax procedures. Applications can be submitted online through the Georgian e-Visa portal.
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, with its mix of ancient and modern architecture
Visa Programs
- Visa-Free Entry: Citizens of 90 countries can stay in Georgia for up to 365 days without a visa, making it one of the most accessible countries for long-term visitors.
- Remote Work Visa ("Remotely from Georgia"): Georgia's digital nomad visa program allows remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to stay and work remotely for up to one year. This visa is application-fee free and offers tax benefits for qualified applicants.
- Residence Permit: Available through property investment (purchasing real estate worth at least $100,000), business registration, or employment with a Georgian company.
- Work Permit: For those with job offers from Georgian companies.
- Investment Visa: For those making significant investments in Georgian businesses or real estate.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: The "Remotely from Georgia" visa requires: a valid passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond planned departure), proof of employment or business ownership, comprehensive health insurance, and proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay. The application is processed within approximately 10 business days.
Tax Benefits: Digital nomads in Georgia enjoy tax exemptions until their 183rd day of stay. After becoming a tax resident, the standard income tax rate is approximately 20%. However, freelancers and digital nomads can register as Individual Entrepreneurs and pay only 1% on their initial income, making Georgia exceptionally tax-friendly for remote workers.
Premium Georgia Remotely From Georgia Visa Checklist
Planning to apply for Georgia's digital nomad visa? Our comprehensive checklist makes the process simple:
- Complete step-by-step application guide
- Current financial requirements
- Online application walkthrough
- Health insurance and tax implications
Cost of Living
Georgia offers an exceptionally affordable cost of living compared to Western countries. Here's what you can expect:
- Monthly budget for comfortable living: $700-1,500 USD depending on lifestyle and location
- Rent: $250-600 USD for a nice one-bedroom apartment in good areas of Tbilisi
- Utilities: $50-100 USD per month including high-speed internet
- Internet: $15-25 USD for high-speed fiber (100 Mbps+)
- Mobile Plan: $5-15 USD with excellent data coverage
- Groceries: $100-200 USD per month
- Eating out: $5-15 USD for a good meal with wine
- Transportation: $0.20 USD for public transport; $2-4 USD for taxi rides in cities
Popular Cities for Expats
Tbilisi
Georgia's capital is the heartbeat of the country's expat scene. The city beautifully blends centuries-old architecture with ultra-modern designs. Old Tbilisi offers charming cobblestone streets and traditional Georgian houses with carved wooden balconies, while districts like Vake and Saburtalo provide more contemporary living options.
Best for: Digital nomads, startup entrepreneurs, and culture enthusiasts
Monthly rent: $300-700 for a modern one-bedroom apartment
Expat community: Very large and active with regular meetups and events
Notable areas: Vake (upscale), Vera (bohemian), Old Tbilisi (historic), Saburtalo (affordable modern)
Traditional wooden balconies in Old Tbilisi
Batumi
This Black Sea resort city has transformed into a modern coastal hub with a growing expat community. Known for its pebble beaches, vibrant nightlife, and subtropical climate, Batumi offers a unique blend of leisure and urban living. The city is particularly popular during summer months when the promenade comes alive with activities.
Best for: Beach lovers, seasonal residents, and those who enjoy warmer climates
Monthly rent: $250-600, with significant seasonal variations
Expat community: Medium-sized, growing rapidly in summer
Notable areas: New Boulevard (modern), Old Batumi (character), Batumi Beach District (convenient)
Aerial view of Batumi with its iconic skyline along the Black Sea coast
Kutaisi
Georgia's third-largest city offers a more authentic Georgian experience with significantly lower costs than Tbilisi or Batumi. With its UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful architecture, and proximity to natural wonders like the Prometheus Cave, Kutaisi provides a perfect balance for those wanting to immerse in Georgian culture while enjoying modern amenities.
Best for: Budget-conscious expats, cultural enthusiasts, and slow travelers
Monthly rent: $150-350 for a comfortable apartment
Expat community: Small but growing, with a friendly atmosphere
Panoramic view of Kutaisi with its historic architecture and surrounding landscape
City Selection Tip: If you're a first-time visitor to Georgia, consider starting with 1-2 months in Tbilisi to get oriented and connect with the expat community. Then explore other cities like Batumi (summer) or Kutaisi (authentic experience) once you're more familiar with the country.
Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)
For nature lovers and digital nomads seeking tranquility, this mountain town offers breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains, including the iconic Mt. Kazbek. The dramatic landscape, clean air, and slower pace of life make it ideal for those looking to escape city living while maintaining connectivity for remote work.
Best for: Nature enthusiasts, writers, and remote workers seeking inspiration
Monthly rent: $200-450, with limited availability
Expat community: Very small, mostly seasonal digital nomads
Gergeti Trinity Church with Mt. Kazbek in the background, Kazbegi region
Borjomi
Famous for its mineral waters, this spa town nestled in a picturesque valley offers a therapeutic retreat. Surrounded by forested mountains and natural springs, Borjomi provides excellent hiking opportunities and a peaceful environment for health-conscious expats.
Best for: Health enthusiasts, nature lovers, and retirees
Monthly rent: $200-400, depending on season
Expat community: Very small, mostly long-term residents
Job Market for Expats
While many expats in Georgia work remotely for foreign companies, the local job market is also developing opportunities for internationals:
- Popular Industries for Expats:
- English teaching (high demand in language schools and private tutoring)
- Tourism and hospitality (especially in Tbilisi and Batumi)
- IT and software development (growing tech startup scene)
- International organizations and NGOs
- Digital marketing agencies serving international clients
- Average Local Salaries: $400-1,200 USD monthly, depending on industry and experience
- Work Permits: Generally obtained through employers, with processing times of 1-2 months
- Networking: Most jobs are found through personal connections and expat networks rather than formal job boards
- Entrepreneurship: Georgia ranks highly for ease of starting a business, with minimal bureaucracy and low tax rates
Important: Local salaries are significantly lower than Western standards. Most expats working for Georgian companies supplement their income with freelance work or remote positions for foreign employers.
Banking and Taxes
- Bank Account: Foreigners can easily open a Georgian bank account with just their passport, a major convenience compared to many countries that require residency
- Tax Benefits: Georgia offers a 1% tax rate for individual entrepreneurs under the "small business" status
- Business Registration: Setting up a company is straightforward and can be completed in 1-2 days
- Tax Residency: Becoming a tax resident requires spending 183+ days in Georgia
- Digital Nomad Taxation: Remote workers on the "Remotely from Georgia" visa aren't subject to Georgian taxes on foreign-earned income until their 183rd day of stay
- Individual Entrepreneur Scheme: Digital nomads can register as Individual Entrepreneurs, paying only 1% tax on income, making Georgia one of the most tax-friendly destinations for remote workers
- International Banking: Major Georgian banks like TBC and Bank of Georgia offer excellent online banking in English with international transfers
- Payment Apps: Services like TransferWise (Wise) and Revolut work well with Georgian bank accounts
Financial Advantage: The combination of low cost of living, easy banking access for non-residents, and the favorable 1% tax rate under the Individual Entrepreneur scheme makes Georgia one of the most financially advantageous destinations for digital nomads and remote workers worldwide.
Banking Security Alert: Always use ATMs attached to banks rather than standalone machines, especially in tourist areas. Shield your PIN, be vigilant about card skimming devices, and set up SMS notifications for all transactions to monitor your account activity in real-time.
Culture and Lifestyle
Georgian culture offers a fascinating blend of European and Asian influences with traditions dating back thousands of years:
- Supra (Feast): A quintessential Georgian tradition where elaborate meals become social events with toasts, songs, and abundant food
- Hospitality: Georgians are famous for their hospitality—being invited to a family home is considered an honor
- Polyphonic Singing: A UNESCO-recognized tradition that's central to Georgian cultural identity
- Religious Life: The Georgian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in daily life, with 84% of the population identifying as Orthodox
- Family Values: Multi-generational households are common, with strong family bonds
- Work-Life Balance: Georgians generally prioritize socializing and family time over rigid work schedules
A traditional Georgian supra (feast) with an array of local dishes
Traditional Georgian dance performers showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage
Modern coworking space in Tbilisi popular with expats and digital nomads
Entertainment and Activities
Georgia offers a diverse range of activities for expats, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences:
- Outdoor Adventures:
- Hiking in the Caucasus Mountains (popular routes in Kazbegi, Svaneti, and Tusheti)
- Skiing and snowboarding in Gudauri and Bakuriani during winter months
- Beach activities along the Black Sea coast in summer
- Paragliding in Gudauri with spectacular mountain views
- Cultural Experiences:
- Wine tours in Kakheti, the birthplace of wine with 8,000 years of winemaking history
- Traditional dance performances at venues like the Tbilisi Concert Hall
- Thermal sulfur baths in Tbilisi's Abanotubani district
- Exploring ancient cave cities like Uplistsikhe and Vardzia
- Nightlife:
- Tbilisi's vibrant club scene, especially in the Fabrika and Shardeni Street areas
- Craft beer bars and speakeasy cocktail venues in Tbilisi
- Seasonal beach clubs in Batumi during summer
- Social Events:
- Weekly expat meetups (Tbilisi Expat Meeting, InterNations events)
- Language exchange gatherings (popular in Fabrika and various coffee shops)
- Outdoor yoga groups and fitness communities
Hiking Safety Tip: When hiking in Georgia's mountains, always check weather forecasts, inform someone of your route, carry extra water, and consider hiring a local guide for remote areas. Cell service can be unreliable in mountain regions, so a portable power bank and offline maps are essential.
Hiking in the stunning Caucasus Mountains offers breathtaking views
Wine tasting is a must-do experience in the country that claims 8,000 years of winemaking history
Language Resources
While many Georgians in Tbilisi speak English, learning some Georgian will enhance your experience and open doors to deeper cultural connections:
- Georgian Language Schools:
- Tbilisi Language Exchange Center - Comprehensive courses with flexible schedules
- Nino's Georgian Language School - Specialized in small group and individual lessons
- American Language Center Tbilisi - Group classes with cultural immersion activities
- Expat Alliance Georgian Classes - Taught by bilingual instructors specifically for expats
- Language Apps: Ling, Mondly, Drops (all have Georgian modules), and Georgian-specific apps like "Learn Georgian"
- Language Exchange: Weekly meetups in major cities (check Facebook groups like "Georgian Language Exchange Tbilisi")
- Online Resources: The "Teach Me Georgian" YouTube channel and georgianlanguage.org offer free lessons
- Practical Tip: Learning the Georgian alphabet (33 unique letters) first makes navigation much easier
Helpful Tip: Even learning basic Georgian phrases like "gamarjoba" (hello), "gmadlobt" (thank you), and "tu sheidzleba" (please) will be greatly appreciated by locals and can enhance your daily interactions.
Digital Nomad Resources
Internet & Connectivity
Georgia offers excellent internet infrastructure that rivals many Western countries:
- Internet Speed: Average speeds of 50-100 Mbps in urban areas, with fiber connections up to 1 Gbps available in Tbilisi and Batumi
- Mobile Data: 4G coverage is excellent in cities and tourist areas; 5G is available in parts of Tbilisi and expanding
- Mobile Providers:
- Magti: Widest coverage and fastest speeds, slightly more expensive
- Geocell: Good balance of coverage and cost
- Beeline: Most affordable option, though coverage can be spotty outside major cities
- SIM Cards: Available for 3-5 GEL ($1-2) with ID at provider shops, airports, and many convenience stores
- Data Plans: Extremely affordable compared to Western prices (15GB for about $7-10 USD)
- Power Stability: Generally reliable in cities, though occasional brief outages can occur in older districts
Coworking Spaces
- Tbilisi:
- Terminal Tbilisi: Premium workspace with 24/7 access, meeting rooms, and a vibrant community of international professionals
- Impact Hub Tbilisi: Social entrepreneurship focus with frequent events and workshops
- Lokal Tbilisi: Boutique coworking with a creative atmosphere and garden space
- Regus Tbilisi: Professional environment with multiple locations across the city
- WorkFrom Tbilisi: Modern space with breathtaking city views
- Batumi:
- Batumi Coworking Center: Affordable space near the beach with sea views
- Work Inn Batumi: Modern facilities with both hot desks and private offices
- Daily Rates: $5-15 USD depending on location and amenities
- Monthly Passes: $60-150 USD for unlimited access
Nomad Communities
- Online Groups:
- Expats in Tbilisi (Facebook): Largest group with 45,000+ members, active daily discussions
- Digital Nomads Georgia (Facebook): Focused on remote work, events, and accommodation sharing
- Tbilisi Digital Nomads (Telegram): Real-time communication for meetups and questions
- Georgia Expat Hub (Discord): Growing community with dedicated channels for different topics
- Regular Meetups:
- Tbilisi Digital Nomad Tuesdays: Weekly gathering at various venues
- Expat Coffee Club: Saturday morning meetings for networking
- Nomad Skill Share: Monthly workshops where nomads teach their specialties
Tips for New Expats
Housing
- For long-term stays, negotiate discounts of 20-30% off listed prices, especially for 6+ month commitments
- Always view apartments in person before paying—photos often don't show heating systems or noise issues
- Check for heating options in winter months (gas heating is more reliable than electric)
- Facebook groups like "Tbilisi Apartment Rentals" offer better deals than Airbnb for monthly rentals
- Older buildings have more character but may have infrastructure challenges; newer buildings offer better amenities
Money & Finances
- Always have some cash (GEL) on hand, especially outside major cities
- ATMs are widely available in cities; those attached to banks usually have better rates
- Wise (TransferWise) offers excellent exchange rates for transferring money to Georgia
- TBC and Bank of Georgia ATMs generally offer fee-free withdrawals
- When setting up a Georgian bank account, request both a VISA and Mastercard for maximum flexibility
Food & Dining
- Georgian cuisine is exceptional and very affordable—don't miss khachapuri, khinkali, and mtsvadi
- Wine culture is important; Georgia claims to be the birthplace of wine (8,000+ years)
- Try qvevri wines for a unique taste of traditional Georgian winemaking
- Grocery delivery apps like Glovo and Wolt deliver from supermarkets and local markets
- Vegetarians can ask for "samarkhvo" dishes, which are meat-free options prepared for religious fasting periods
Communication
- The Georgian alphabet is unique; consider learning to read basic signs
- The country code for Georgia is +995
- Google Translate works well for Georgian in written form
- Direct communication is appreciated; Georgians tend to be straightforward
- Learn a few basic phrases like "gamarjoba" (hello) and "gmadlobt" (thank you)
Transportation
- Transportation apps like Bolt work very well in major cities
- Tbilisi metro costs only 1 GEL ($0.30) per journey regardless of distance
- For intercity travel, the Georgian Railway offers comfortable and scenic journeys
- Marshrutkas (minibuses) are the most affordable way to travel between cities but can be cramped
- Consider renting a car for exploring remote regions, but be prepared for challenging mountain roads
Healthcare
- Private clinics in Tbilisi offer good quality care at affordable prices
- New East Medical Center and American Medical Center are popular with expats
- Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended
- Medications are widely available and often don't require prescriptions
- Dental care is excellent and very affordable compared to Western prices
Weather & Seasons
- Bring warm clothes if staying during winter; many apartments have inconsistent heating
- Tbilisi summers can be very hot (35°C+), while mountain regions remain cooler
- Spring (May-June) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant climate
- Check air quality apps during winter in Tbilisi as inversions can trap pollution
- Weather can change rapidly in mountain regions; always be prepared when hiking
Tbilisi's cafe culture is perfect for digital nomads and remote workers
Pro Tip: For the best experience, try to stay in Georgia for at least three months. The first month is typically spent getting settled, the second month exploring the city, and by the third month, you'll start to develop meaningful connections with locals and truly experience Georgian hospitality.
Traditional Georgian winemaking with qvevri clay vessels
Conclusion
Georgia offers an exceptional quality of life for expats and digital nomads with its perfect blend of affordability, rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and increasingly modern infrastructure. The incredibly generous visa policy, including the new "Remotely from Georgia" digital nomad visa program with tax advantages, the low cost of living, and growing expat community make Georgia one of the most accessible and appealing destinations for those seeking to live abroad. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant cityscape of Tbilisi, the coastal charm of Batumi, or the serene mountain villages, Georgia welcomes you with open arms and incredible hospitality.
Long-Term Planning: Many expats initially come to Georgia for 3-6 months but end up staying for years. If you're considering a longer stay, investigate residence permit options early in your visit. The digital nomad visa offers a straightforward first step, while real estate investment (property purchase over $100,000) remains one of the most established paths to long-term residency, with property values in Tbilisi consistently appreciating in recent years.
Modern Batumi skyline along the Black Sea coast
