Nestled between the soaring peaks of the Caucasus Mountains and the balmy shores of the Black Sea, Georgia stands out as a dream destination for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and connectivity.
The Georgia Digital Nomad Visa or the “Remotely from Georgia” program was introduced in the summer of 2020, during a period when the world was grappling with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
This initiative was designed to attract remote workers and digital nomads from all over the world, offering them the opportunity to live and work in Georgia for a period of up to one year, enjoy tax-free benefits on foreign income, and enjoy its low cost of living compared to Western standards, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget.
However, the Remotely from Georgia program may soon be discontinued and expected to be replaced with a revised program currently being developed to cater to the evolving digital nomad and remote work environment.
In this article, we delve into the heart of the Remotely from Georgia program, highlighting its features, application process, and the many benefits it brings to remote workers and digital nomads.
What is the Georgia Digital Nomad Visa?
The Georgia Digital Nomad Visa, formally known as the “Remotely from Georgia” program, is a visionary initiative by the Georgian government, designed to welcome remote workers and digital nomads from around the world to live and work in Georgia for up to one year, with the possibility of extension.
This program, is part of Georgia’s broader efforts to attract global talent and foster a multicultural professional community within its borders.
- Eligibility: Open to citizens of 95 countries, the program targets freelancers, full-time employees, or business owners who can work remotely, leveraging digital technologies to perform their jobs.
- Income Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of $2,000 USD, ensuring they can sustain their stay without local employment. This financial threshold is intended to select applicants who are self-sufficient and can contribute economically to the country without competing for local jobs.
- Online Application Process: The application is straightforward and entirely online, reflecting Georgia’s commitment to simplicity and accessibility. Applicants are required to provide personal details, proof of employment or business ownership, evidence of health insurance that covers the duration of their stay, and a declaration of criminal record.
- Tax Implications: Digital nomads residing in Georgia under this visa may benefit from the country’s favorable tax policies, including potentially qualifying for a special tax regime that offers advantageous rates for foreign income. Digital nomads and remote workers are not obligated to pay taxes until the 183rd day of stay. Those who stay for more than 183 days are considered tax residents and the income tax rate is around 20%.
- Duration and Extension: Initially granted for up to one year, the visa can be extended, allowing digital nomads to enjoy Georgia’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and welcoming community for longer periods.
- Local Integration: Visa holders have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Georgian life, from exploring its ancient heritage and natural beauty to enjoying the vibrant culinary scene and warm hospitality.
- Community and Networking: Georgia has an active and growing community of digital nomads and expats, supported by coworking spaces, networking events, and social groups that help newcomers settle in and connect with like-minded professionals.
Georgia is among a group of pioneering countries that recognized the growing trend of digital nomadism and responded by creating specific visa programs to attract remote workers.
Together with Georgia, Estonia, and Barbados were also among the pioneering countries to launch a Digital Nomad Visa, which was officially introduced in 2020 to allow remote workers to live in these countries and legally work for their foreign employers or clients.
These countries were quick to adapt to the changing dynamics of work, acknowledging the potential economic and cultural benefits of welcoming a global workforce.
Benefits of the Georgia Digital Nomad Visa
The Georgia Digital Nomad Visa program offers a unique combination of benefits that make it particularly enticing for digital nomads seeking their next adventure.
Here are some of the advantages and interesting facts that stand out:
- Cultural Richness: Georgia is known for its deep historical roots and a vibrant blend of Eastern and Western cultures, offering digital nomads a chance to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. From ancient churches and fortresses to the legendary hospitality of its people, Georgia provides a backdrop that enriches the remote working experience.
- Affordability: One of the most attractive aspects of living in Georgia is the low cost of living. Everything from housing to dining out and entertainment comes at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries, allowing digital nomads to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
- Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia offers easy access to a variety of destinations, making it an ideal base for digital nomads who love to travel. Whether you’re looking to explore the rest of the Caucasus, take short trips to Europe, or venture into the Middle East, Georgia’s location is hard to beat.
- Visa-Free Travel: Holders of the digital nomad visa can enjoy visa-free travel to a number of countries, thanks to Georgia’s favorable visa agreements. This feature adds an extra layer of appeal for nomads who value mobility and the freedom to explore new destinations.
- Friendly Business Environment: Georgia is renowned for its ease of doing business, with straightforward procedures for setting up a company and a favorable tax regime. For digital nomads considering starting their own business or maintaining one, Georgia provides a conducive environment.
- Quality of Life: Beyond the practical benefits, Georgia offers a compelling lifestyle choice. The country boasts stunning natural landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the serene beaches of the Black Sea coast, providing endless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Wine Heritage: Georgia is considered the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking history that spans over 8,000 years. Digital nomads in Georgia can explore this rich heritage through wine tastings and tours in the country’s many vineyards.
- UNESCO Sites: The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historical monuments of Mtskheta and the Gelati Monastery, offering digital nomads a glimpse into Georgia’s ancient past.
- Unique Alphabet: The Georgian script is one of the only 14 distinct alphabets in the world, adding a unique aspect to the cultural immersion experience.
- Safety: Georgia ranks high in terms of safety, with low crime rates and a welcoming attitude towards foreigners. This aspect is crucial for digital nomads looking for a secure place to live and work.
The Georgia Digital Nomad Visa- Requirements, Application & Costs
Applying for the “Remotely from Georgia” program entails meeting specific qualifications and providing a set of documents. This visa caters to freelancers, remote workers, and business owners wishing to live in Georgia while working for companies or clients based outside of Georgia. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the requirements and documents needed to apply:
Requirements
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- The visa allows for a stay of up to one year, with the possibility of extension depending on individual circumstances and adherence to Georgian laws and regulations.
- Proof of a stable income of at least $2,000 USD per month is required. This financial requirement ensures that applicants can sustain their stay in Georgia without the need for local employment. The income can come from employment, self-employment, or ownership of a company.
- Applicants must have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration.
- A recent passport-size photo.
- Proof of Income:
- For employees: A letter from your employer confirming your remote work status and monthly income.
- For freelancers and business owners: Documents proving your income level, such as bank statements for the last few months, contracts, invoices, or a statement from your accountant.
- Valid health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay in Georgia. The policy must cover COVID-19 treatment and other medical expenses.
- Accommodation Details: Information regarding your planned accommodation in Georgia, which can be a rental agreement, a hotel booking, or a letter from a host
- Application Form: A completed application form is available on the official “Remotely from Georgia” website, which includes personal information, details about your remote work, and a declaration of your criminal record, if applicable.
- Criminal Record Declaration: Applicants must declare whether they have a criminal record. Note that having a criminal record may affect the eligibility for the visa.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of one of the 95 eligible countries listed on the program’s official website.
- Remote Employment: Applicants must be currently employed in a remote position, operate their own business, or work as freelancers with clients outside of Georgia.
Eligible countries
1. Commonwealth of Australia
2. Republic of Austria
3. Republic of Azerbaijan
4. Republic of Albania
5. United States of America
6. Principality of Andorra
7. Antigua and Barbuda
8. United Arab Emirates
9. Argentine Republic
10. New Zealand
11. Barbados
12. Kingdom of Bahrain
13. Commonwealth of the Bahamas
14. Republic of Belarus
15. Kingdom of Belgium
16. Belize
17. Bosnia and Herzegovina
18. Republic of Botswana
19. Federative Republic of Brazil
20. Brunei Darussalam
21. Republic of Bulgaria
22. Federal Republic of Germany
23. Kingdom of Denmark
24. Territories of the Kingdom of Denmark – Faroe Islands and Greenland
25. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
26. Overseas territories of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland – Bermuda Islands, Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, Falkland Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands, Gibraltar
27. Crown Dependencies of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland – Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man
28. Dominican Republic
29. El Salvador
31. Kingdom of Spain
32. Republic of Estonia
33. Republic of Turkey
34. Turkmenistan
35. Japan
36. Republic of Ireland
37. Iceland
38. State of Israel
39. Italian Republic
40. Canada
41. State of Qatar
43. Republic of Colombia
45. Republic of Costa Rica
46. Republic of Latvia
47. Republic of Lithuania
48. Lebanese Republic
49. Principality of Liechtenstein
50. Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
51. Republic of Mauritius
52. Malaysia
53. Republic of Malta
54. United Mexican States
55. Principality of Monaco
56. Republic of Moldova
57. Montenegro
58. Kingdom of the Netherlands
59. Territories of the Kingdom of the Netherlands – Aruba and Netherlands Antilles
60. Kingdom of Norway
61. Sultanate of Oman
62. Republic of Panama
63. Republic of Poland
64. Portuguese Republic
65. Romania
66. Russian Federation
67. Hellenic Republic
68. Republic of South Africa
69. Republic of San Marino
70. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
71. French Republic
72. Territories of the French Republic – French Polynesia and New Caledonia
73. Seychelles
74. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
75. Republic of Serbia
76. Republic of Singapore
77. Slovak Republic
78. Republic of Slovenia
79. Republic of Armenia
80. Kingdom of Thailand
81. Republic of Tajikistan
82. Republic of Uzbekistan
83. Ukraine
84. Hungary