Georgia to enforce new labour migration rules from 1 March

Amendments to Georgia’s Law on Labour Migration will come into force on 1 March, introducing stricter regulations for the employment and self-employment of foreign nationals in the country.

The changes were discussed by the Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs and members of parliament, who emphasised the importance of effective implementation.

Under the new rules, foreign citizens will be required to obtain a “right to engage in labour activity” in order to work legally in Georgia, including in remote positions.

Permits will be issued by the State Agency for Employment Promotion. The application process will be fully electronic, with a dedicated registration portal becoming available from 1 March. The permit will be issued for a specific position and employer for a period of one year and will be subject to a fee.

For self-employed foreign nationals, the work authorisation will specify the relevant sector and type of entrepreneurial activity.

The law was drafted taking into account European Union recommendations, according to officials.

Transitional arrangements have also been introduced. Foreign nationals already registered in the electronic labour migration system and legally employed will benefit from a grace period until 1 January 2027. A separate grace period, valid until 1 May 2026, will apply to self-employed foreigners already engaged in business or labour activities in Georgia.

Failure to comply with the new regulations will result in financial penalties for both employees and employers, including fines for self-employed foreign nationals.