Georgian Health Minister says no fee guarantees work permit for foreign nationals

Georgian Health Minister Mikheil Sarjveladze has dismissed claims that foreign citizens can obtain work permits by paying a fee, calling such information false.

The Minister added no payment, including in sectors such as guiding, taxi, or courier services, guarantees employment authorisation for foreign nationals. He said political opponents have been spreading misleading information to create the impression that poor decisions have been made.

Sarjveladze explained that foreigners seeking work permits must submit an application, after which authorities make decisions based on established regulations. The fee in question, he noted, is merely a state service charge, comparable to court filing fees and does not ensure approval.

He added that in certain fields, specifically guiding, taxi and courier services, obtaining a work permit will effectively be ruled out because there is no objective need to employ foreign citizens, as the existing market demand can be fully met by Georgian workers.

The Minister also noted that amendments to the Law on Labour Migration will take effect on March 1. Under the changes, foreign citizens will be required to obtain the appropriate authorisation to work or conduct business in Georgia. The process will be fully electronic, permits will be issued for specific positions and employers for one year, and transitional provisions are included.