Living in Georgia: the ultimate expat guide

Georgia's immigration framework stands out for its accessibility. Whether you're testing the waters or committing long-term, multiple pathways exist depending on your profile and plans.

Visa-Free Entry: Up to One Year

Citizens of over 90 countries — including the EU, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea — can enter Georgia without a visa and stay for 365 consecutive days. Requirements are minimal: a valid passport and proof of sufficient funds. EU citizens can even enter using just their national ID card. Note that as of October 2025, the EU is considering suspending visa-free travel for European citizens due to diplomatic tensions, so staying informed is crucial before traveling.

e-Visa for Other Nationalities

If your country isn't on the visa-free list, apply for a Type C e-Visa for tourism through the official Georgian e-Visa portal. Depending on nationality, you'll receive authorization for 30-90 days, with some European countries eligible for up to 1 year. Fees vary by nationality. Once approved, you can enter through the international airports in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi.

Immigration Visa (Type D)

For longer stays leading to residence permits, Type D visas serve as the gateway. Several categories exist:

D1 – Business/Work: For employment with a Georgian company or entrepreneurial activities. Apply within 30 days of receiving work authorization.

D2 – Scientific/Cultural/Sports: For researchers, artists, athletes, volunteers, or interns on specific missions.

D3 – Study: For enrollment in accredited educational institutions. Valid initially for 3 months, it enables subsequent student residence permit applications.

D4 – Family Reunification: To join family members who are Georgian residents or citizens.

D5 – Real Estate: Available to those purchasing property worth at least USD 100,000 (equivalent in GEL). Family members are included.

Temporary Residence Permits

Once in Georgia with the appropriate visa, you can apply for residence permits that formalize your legal status for extended periods.

Work Residence Permit: Open to employees of Georgian companies and entrepreneurs. Requirements include a contract of at least 6 months or ownership of a business (sole proprietorship or LLC). The employing company must generate minimum annual turnover of GEL 50,000 per foreign employee, and you must earn at least GEL 1,272.50 monthly (five times the subsistence minimum). Your employer registers you in the Ministry of Labor database. Initial permits last 6-12 months, renewable for up to 11 additional years (maximum 12 years total). Apply at least 40 days before your legal stay expires at any Public Service Hall (PSH).

IT Residence Permit: Introduced September 1, 2025, this targets IT professionals, small business IT entrepreneurs, and representatives of international IT firms. Eligibility requires at least 2 years of IT sector experience, annual income of minimum USD 25,000, and physical presence in Georgia for at least 183 days annually. The permit lasts 3 years, renewable three times for a maximum of 12 years. Family members are automatically included.

Property-Based Residence Permit: Purchase real estate valued at minimum USD 100,000 (market value in GEL equivalent) — including apartments, houses, commercial properties, or non-agricultural land — and you qualify. A certified Georgian appraiser must evaluate the property. Initial permits last 6-12 months with annual renewals. Selling the property revokes the permit. After 6 years of continuous residence, you can apply for citizenship. Importantly, there's no physical presence requirement to maintain this permit.

Student Residence Permit: Students enrolled in accredited institutions obtain a D3 visa (3 months), then apply for the residence permit within the first 45 days after arrival.

Recent Immigration Reforms

Between June and September 2025, Georgia implemented a new regulatory framework for foreign employment. Now in effect, this creates a database tracking irregular foreign residents and strengthens authorities' inspection rights at residences and workplaces (though judicial orders remain necessary). The deadline to contest permit refusals extended from 30 to 45 days as of July 2025, but appeals no longer automatically suspend enforcement of administrative decisions.

These changes reflect efforts to better manage immigration while preserving the country's attractiveness. Ensure all documentation is complete and deadlines are met to avoid complications.

Georgia's labor market presents mixed signals — unemployment remains elevated but specific sectors offer genuine opportunities for skilled expats. Meanwhile, launching a business here is remarkably straightforward, explaining the influx of international entrepreneurs.

Understanding the Job Market

As of Q2 2025, the unemployment rate sits at 14.3%, down slightly from 14.7% in Q1. The employment rate reaches 46.4% of the working-age population. In Tbilisi, the average annual salary amounts to GEL 87,760 (roughly USD 35,100), translating to about GEL 7,313 monthly (approximately USD 2,925). The median salary comes in slightly lower at GEL 83,760 annually. Salary increases are modest: typically 5% every 28 months, or about 2% annually.

Sectoral disparities are significant. In 2021, managers earned an average GEL 2,414.70 monthly while low-skilled workers received GEL 674.10. The public sector pays roughly 20% more than private sector equivalents. Georgia has an unusually high ratio of 573.3 doctors per 100,000 residents — well above Western norms — but only 419 nurses per 100,000, creating a doctor-to-nurse ratio of 1:0.7 (versus the European standard of 1:4).

Growth Sectors for Expats

Several industries actively recruit international talent. The IT and technology sector is booming: IT employment jumped from 30,600 in 2021 to 45,500 in 2023. The new IT residence permit launched in September 2025 underscores this sector's strategic importance. Tourism and hospitality benefit from nearly 6 million annual visitors — almost double Georgia's population — creating constant demand for skilled workers. Financial services play a dominant role in the economy, with 21 commercial banks operating nationwide. Language teaching, particularly English, and consulting services also present opportunities, especially in major cities.

Average Salaries by Sector

To gauge earning potential, here's a snapshot of monthly wages across different sectors in Georgia. These 2021 figures serve as general indicators; actual salaries vary based on experience and employer.

Sources: AGENDA.GE, Geostat

Starting Your Own Business

Georgia makes entrepreneurship remarkably simple. Ranked 8th globally for ease of doing business by the World Bank, the country allows company registration in just days. The main business structures are Individual Entrepreneur (IE) — similar to sole proprietorship — and Limited Liability Company (LLC). The minimum capital for an LLC is symbolic: just GEL 1 (about USD 0.40). Registration procedures are handled online or at Public Service Halls, with processing typically taking 1-3 business days.

The territorial tax system is a major draw: only Georgian-sourced income is taxed, while foreign earnings remain exempt. Corporate Income Tax applies only when profits are distributed, at a rate of 15%, encouraging reinvestment. As an entrepreneur, you'll pay Personal Income Tax at 20% on Georgian income, plus a 2% pension contribution on salaries.

This combination of administrative simplicity and favorable taxation explains why countless international entrepreneurs choose Georgia as their base, particularly for digital services, consulting, or international trade.

Securing accommodation in Georgia is generally straightforward and affordable compared to Western cities. Whether renting or buying, the market offers diverse options from Soviet-era renovated apartments to modern developments and standalone houses.

Renting Property

In Tbilisi, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages GEL 1,780 monthly (about USD 710). Outside the center, expect around GEL 1,100 (roughly USD 440). For a three-bedroom unit, central locations cost approximately GEL 3,410 monthly (about USD 1,360), dropping to GEL 2,180 (around USD 870) in peripheral areas. Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet) add roughly GEL 235 per month (about USD 95) for an average-sized apartment.

In Batumi, the Black Sea resort city, rents run slightly lower. A one-bedroom in the center goes for around GEL 1,500 (about USD 600), while peripheral areas offer options around GEL 900 (roughly USD 360). Three-bedroom apartments cost approximately GEL 2,800 centrally (about USD 1,120) and GEL 1,800 (around USD 720) outside.

Popular Tbilisi neighborhoods include Vake, a green residential area favored by families, Saburtalo, modern and expat-friendly with good infrastructure, and Mtatsminda, perched on hills with panoramic views. Lease agreements typically run for minimum 1 year, with one or two months' deposit. Many landlords quote rents in USD or EUR to hedge against lari fluctuations.

Buying Real Estate

The average price per square meter in central Tbilisi reaches GEL 4,260 (roughly USD 1,700), while peripheral areas drop to GEL 2,465 (about USD 985). In Batumi, prices range GEL 2,500-3,500 per square meter (approximately USD 1,000-1,400) depending on sea proximity and construction quality.

Foreigners can freely purchase real estate in Georgia except for agricultural land. The purchase process involves a notary and registration with the Public Registry. Notary fees run about 1% of the sale price, plus GEL 50 (around USD 20) registration fees. As mentioned earlier, purchasing property worth at least USD 100,000 qualifies you for a property-based residence permit.

Georgia's real estate market attracts foreign investors, particularly in tourist zones like Batumi or ski resorts such as Gudauri and Bakuriani. Rental yields can reach 6-8% for well-located properties rented to tourists or expats.

Practical Advice

Before committing to a lease or purchase, visit neighborhoods at different times to assess atmosphere, noise levels, and transport access. Local platforms like MyHome.ge and expat Facebook groups are excellent resources. Negotiate rental rates, especially for long-term leases, and engage a notary or legal advisor when buying to secure the transaction.

Georgia's tax framework stands out for its simplicity and territorial approach: only income generated within Georgia is taxable. This unique system offers significant advantages for entrepreneurs and professionals earning internationally.

Personal Income Tax

The Personal Income Tax applies a flat 20% rate to all Georgian-sourced income: salaries, freelance fees, rental income, and capital gains. Crucially, foreign-sourced income remains completely tax-free for Georgian residents — a major benefit for expats receiving rental income, dividends, or consulting fees from abroad.

Dividends distributed by Georgian companies incur a 5% withholding tax at source. Self-employed individuals and sole proprietors can opt for a simplified regime with a 1% turnover tax, provided annual revenue doesn't exceed GEL 500,000 (roughly USD 200,000). This option suits freelancers and small operations perfectly.

Corporate Income Tax

Georgia's Corporate Income Tax has a distinctive feature: it only applies upon profit distribution, at a 15% rate. As long as earnings are reinvested in the business, no tax is due. This mechanism encourages growth and innovation, allowing companies to accumulate reserves tax-free. Exceptions include distributed dividends, non-business-related expenses, and donations.

Foreign company branches operating in Georgia follow the same tax rules as local entities. A Georgian company earning foreign income isn't taxed on those earnings unless they're repatriated and distributed.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

Georgian VAT stands at 18% on most goods and services sold domestically. Companies with annual turnover exceeding GEL 100,000 (about USD 40,000) must register for VAT. Exports and certain international services benefit from a zero rate, allowing exporters to reclaim input VAT. Healthcare, education, and financial services enjoy specific exemptions.

Social Contributions

Both employees and employers pay a 2% pension contribution on gross salary, split equally (1% each). This funds Georgia's pension system. No mandatory health insurance contributions exist — healthcare relies on private insurance.

Property Tax

Annual property tax varies by location and property value. In Tbilisi, residential properties incur 0.8%-1% of cadastral value. Rural areas see rates as low as 0.2%. Agricultural land enjoys even lower rates. Owners must declare properties to tax authorities and pay by November 15 annually.

Tax Treaties and Implications

Georgia has signed double taxation treaties with over 50 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. These agreements prevent the same income from being taxed twice. US citizens must note that the US taxes worldwide income regardless of residence, so you'll need to navigate FATCA reporting requirements and possibly claim foreign tax credits. UK citizens post-Brexit should verify their treaty status and obligations. Consulting an international tax specialist helps optimize your situation and ensure compliance in both jurisdictions.

Tax Residency

You become a Georgian tax resident by residing in Georgia for at least 183 days in a calendar year, or if your center of economic and personal interests is primarily here. As a tax resident, you're taxable on Georgian-sourced income. If you remain a tax resident in your home country — particularly in Europe or North America — carefully review the applicable tax treaty to determine your respective obligations.

This transparent, streamlined, territorial tax system makes Georgia a favored destination for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors seeking to optimize their tax burden while operating within a secure legal framework.

Georgia's healthcare system operates primarily through the private sector, offering modern facilities and well-trained medical personnel. Unlike universal public healthcare systems common in Europe or Canada, Georgia uses an insurance-based model where individuals subscribe to coverage matching their needs. Medical costs remain significantly lower than in Western countries.

How the System Works

Since a 2013 reform, Georgia offers Universal Healthcare Program (UHC) — state-funded coverage managed by private insurers. This covers emergency care, hospitalizations, and basic outpatient treatments for all residents. However, many specialized treatments, medications, and consultations aren't included, prompting most residents to purchase supplementary private health insurance.

The country boasts approximately 573 doctors per 100,000 inhabitants — well above Western averages — reflecting strong medical density. However, nursing staff remains sparse at 419 per 100,000, creating an imbalanced doctor-to-nurse ratio. Public hospitals and private clinics coexist, with the latter generally offering superior comfort and technology.

Major Hospitals and Clinics in Tbilisi

The capital concentrates most advanced medical infrastructure. Top-rated facilities include Tbilisi Central Hospital, Sarajishvili Medical Center, New Hospital (Axali Klinika), and the American Hospital Tbilisi, which applies US medical standards and attracts expatriate clientele. Zhvaniya Clinic and Chapidze Emergency Cardiology Center also enjoy excellent reputations, particularly in cardiovascular specialties.

These clinics feature modern equipment (MRI, CT scans, advanced laboratories) and employ practitioners trained locally or abroad. English is commonly spoken in private establishments frequented by expats, facilitating communication.

Healthcare Costs and Private Insurance

Medical fees in Georgia remain highly affordable compared to Western standards. A general practitioner consultation costs GEL 50-100 (about USD 20-40), while a specialist visit runs GEL 80-150 (approximately USD 30-60). A one-day hospitalization in a private clinic ranges GEL 200-500 (around USD 80-200) depending on care provided.

Local private health insurance from companies like Aldagi, PSP Insurance, or GPI Insurance costs GEL 500-2,000 annually (roughly USD 200-800) for standard coverage including consultations, hospitalizations, and prescription medications. Premium plans offer higher caps and access to top clinics. For expats, subscribing to international insurance often makes sense, especially if you travel frequently or want coverage across multiple countries.

Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies are ubiquitous in Georgian cities, offering a wide range of medications, many available without prescription. Major pharmacy chains include PSP, GPC (Georgia Pharmacy Corporation), and Aversi. Medication prices remain moderate: a generic antibiotic typically costs GEL 10-30 (about USD 4-12). Imported or brand-name drugs cost more but remain cheaper than in Europe.

Key Takeaway for Expats

Even though Georgia's system offers quality care at reduced prices, subscribing to private health insurance upon arrival is strongly recommended. This guarantees access to the best facilities and protects you in medical emergencies. Employed expats may receive employer-provided coverage. Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals should budget for this monthly expense.

For older expats or those with pre-existing conditions, verify policy exclusions and caps carefully, and consider international coverage if necessary. Also check bilateral agreements between Georgia and your home country: some allow partial affiliation with your national social security system, particularly for pensions and disability benefits.

Expat families relocating to Georgia have several education pathways, from free Georgian public schools to private international institutions offering globally recognized curricula. Your choice depends on stay duration, budget, and long-term educational plans.

The Georgian Education System

Georgia's public system comprises 12 years of compulsory education: primary (6 years), secondary (3 years), and upper secondary (3 years). Instruction occurs in Georgian, posing challenges for non-Georgian-speaking children, though some public schools offer bilingual classes or language integration programs. Public schools are free, but quality varies significantly by region. Tbilisi hosts the country's best public schools.

Georgian diplomas are recognized under the Bologna Process, facilitating European higher education entry. However, most expats prefer international schools to maintain educational continuity, especially if planning to return home or relocate elsewhere.

International Schools in Tbilisi

The capital houses several reputable establishments offering internationally recognized curricula.

QSI International School of Tbilisi, affiliated with Quality Schools International, follows the American curriculum from kindergarten through high school. It delivers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and enjoys excellent standing among American and anglophone expats. The school emphasizes individualized learning and personalized support. Annual tuition ranges USD 12,000-18,000 depending on grade level.

British International School Tbilisi (BIST) offers the British curriculum, from early years through GCSE and A-Level. Following the National Curriculum for England, it prepares students for internationally recognized British examinations. Expect annual fees between USD 10,000-16,000.

International School of Georgia (ISG) provides the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, particularly valued for its multicultural approach and pathways to universities worldwide. Tuition runs approximately USD 14,000-20,000 annually.

New School International combines multiple curricula with emphasis on bilingual English-Georgian instruction, facilitating local integration while maintaining international academic standards. Annual fees sit around USD 8,000-12,000.

Bilingual and Alternative Schools

Beyond traditional international schools, Tbilisi has bilingual Georgian-English or Georgian-Russian establishments, often more affordable while delivering quality education. These schools suit families wanting deeper local cultural immersion while maintaining solid English proficiency. Fees typically range USD 3,000-7,000 annually.

Extracurricular Activities and Support

International schools offer extensive extracurricular programs: sports (soccer, basketball, swimming), arts (music, theater, visual arts), language and science clubs. These activities are often included in tuition or charged as modest supplements. Expat communities also organize tutoring groups, language courses, and cultural activities for children.

Practical Considerations

Places at top international schools are limited and enrollment sometimes requires booking months ahead. Contact schools as soon as your relocation plans firm up to secure a spot. Some schools require admission tests or interviews. Tuition represents a significant budget item: factor it into salary negotiations or financial planning. Also inquire about potential scholarships from your employer, embassy, or the school itself.

Relocating internationally demands meticulous preparation to avoid pitfalls. Whether moving with a few suitcases or a full shipping container, this checklist helps you anticipate each step and approach your Georgian installation confidently.

Before Departure

1. Verify passport validity: Ensure it remains valid at least six months beyond arrival. EU citizens can enter with just an ID card, but a passport facilitates certain on-ground procedures.
2. Secure international health insurance: Don't leave without medical coverage. Compare local and international options to find the right plan for your needs and budget.
3. Open a Georgian bank account: Banks like TBC Bank or Bank of Georgia allow remote account opening. Otherwise, plan to do it upon arrival with your passport and proof of address.
4. Cancel or suspend subscriptions: Electricity, gas, internet, phone, insurance — settle these administrative matters to avoid paying unnecessarily during absence.
5. Translate and legalize important documents: Diplomas, marriage or birth certificates, driver's license — have them translated into English or Georgian by a certified translator and legalized if necessary.
6. Arrange temporary accommodation: Book an Airbnb or hotel for initial weeks while you visit apartments and sign a lease at your own pace.
7. Notify your tax authority of departure: If becoming a Georgian tax resident, inform your home country's tax authorities to avoid unintended double taxation.

Shipping Your Belongings

For small moves, checked luggage suffices. If bringing more, several options exist: sea freight (economical but slow, allow 6-8 weeks), air freight (faster but expensive), or international moving services handling packing, transport, and customs clearance. Compare quotes and verify insurance coverage. Georgia generally doesn't impose customs duties on personal effects, but keep receipts for valuable items to facilitate customs passage.

Upon Arrival

1. Purchase a local SIM card: Operators Magti, Geocell, and Beeline offer affordable data plans. A SIM costs a few lari and keeps you connected immediately.
2. Register with your embassy or consulate: Indicate your presence in Georgia to facilitate consular procedures if needed (passport renewal, emergency assistance).
3. Apply for your residence permit: If you meet requirements (work, property, study, IT), initiate the process quickly at a Public Service Hall to secure legal status.
4. Join expat communities: Facebook groups, online forums, and networking events help you make contacts, get practical advice, and feel less isolated.
5. Explore your new neighborhood: Locate supermarkets, pharmacies, public transport, parks, and restaurants. Familiarize yourself with nearby shops and essential services.
6. Learn basic Georgian: Though English often suffices in Tbilisi, knowing basics (hello, thank you, goodbye) eases interactions and shows respect for local culture.

Adapting Your Lifestyle

Initial weeks in Georgia may feel disorienting: unique Georgian script, different pace of life, new culinary specialties to discover. Allow yourself time to acclimate. Enjoy local markets to taste fresh produce, test public transport to get your bearings, and don't hesitate to ask for help — Georgian hospitality is legendary, though individual experiences vary.

With solid organization and an open mind, your Georgian installation will proceed smoothly, allowing you to fully savor this new Caucasus adventure.

Georgia isn't just about tax advantages and economic opportunities — it's a country of exceptional cultural richness, blending ancient traditions, renowned cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're into history, hiking, wine, or contemporary art, you'll find plenty to explore.

Cultural and Historical Heritage

Tbilisi, the capital, showcases architectural treasures mixing Persian, Ottoman, and Soviet influences. The Old Town quarter, with cobblestone lanes, carved wooden balconies, and Orthodox churches, invites leisurely strolls. Don't miss Narikala Fortress, perched on the heights, offering panoramic city views. The Georgian National Museum traces the country's history from antiquity, while the Museum of Modern Art displays Georgian and international contemporary works.

A few hours' drive away, Mtskheta, the ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage site, houses Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a major Georgian Orthodox holy site. Further north, Svaneti's medieval towers and Vardzia's cave monasteries testify to a fascinating past.

Food and Wine Culture

Georgian cuisine is an art form. Must-tries include khachapuri, cheese-filled bread with several regional variations, and khinkali, juicy meat or mushroom dumplings. Pkhali, vegetable preparations made from spinach, beets, or beans, often accompany main dishes. Local markets, like Dezerter Bazaar in Tbilisi, overflow with fresh produce, spices, and artisanal specialties.

Georgia claims wine invention over 8,000 years ago, and its natural wines made in qvevri (buried clay vessels) captivate enthusiasts worldwide. The wine regions of Kakheti and Imereti offer tastings in traditional cellars and modern estates. Indigenous grape varieties like Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white) are worth discovering.

Outdoor Adventures

Georgian landscapes range from subtropical Black Sea coastline to snow-capped Caucasus peaks. Hiking enthusiasts will love trails in Kazbegi National Park, where Mount Kazbek towers over 5,000 meters. Gergeti Trinity Church, isolated at 2,170 meters altitude, is an iconic destination reachable via a few hours' hike.

In winter, ski resorts Gudauri and Bakuriani attract skiers and snowboarders with prices far below Alpine rates. In summer, Batumi's beaches and Black Sea resorts like Ureki or Kobuleti provide ideal seaside relaxation.

Nightlife and Arts Scene

Tbilisi buzzes with dynamic nightlife, particularly in the trendy Fabrika district, a former industrial complex converted into a creative space housing bars, restaurants, galleries, and clubs. Bassiani, a techno club under Dinamo Stadium, enjoys international renown. Live music lovers will find their fix in the capital's music cafes, regularly hosting local and international artists.

Georgia's arts scene is flourishing, especially in cinema, theater, and visual arts. The Tbilisi International Film Festival and Tbilisi Art Fair showcase this cultural dynamism.

Communities and Networking

Expats regularly connect through events organized by groups like Tbilisi Expat Community or Internations Tbilisi. These gatherings enable exchanging advice, tips, and building friendships. English-friendly cafes like Coffeesta or Stamba Hotel serve as informal meeting points.

Georgia thus combines ancestral heritage, preserved nature, and contemporary buzz, offering expats a rich and stimulating lifestyle where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.

Settling in Georgia means adapting to a different routine, where some conveniences surprise with their modernity while others retain traditional charm. Here's an overview of practical elements that will shape your daily life.

Getting Around

In Tbilisi, the metro serves major city districts for just GEL 1 per ride (about USD 0.40). A monthly pass costs GEL 40 (around USD 16), making it an economical and efficient transport option. The bus network complements the metro with the same unit fare. For flexibility, taxi apps like Bolt enable quick movement: average in-city rides cost USD 2-5, and airport-to-center trips typically run under USD 15.

In Batumi, electric buses operate for minimal fares of GEL 0.1-0.5. Taxis are also very affordable: GEL 0.5 base fare and GEL 1.5-2 for standard rides off-season, up to GEL 5 during peak tourist season.

For intercity travel, buses connect Tbilisi to Batumi for USD 10-15 (roughly 6 hours), while a private taxi costs around USD 100 for the same route. The Tbilisi-Kutaisi train offers a comfortable alternative for USD 10-16. A shuttle also serves Kutaisi airport from Tbilisi for USD 16.

If buying a car, gasoline costs approximately GEL 11.62 per gallon (about USD 4.65). A new vehicle runs GEL 50,000-54,450 (roughly USD 20,000-22,000).

Food and Groceries

Modern supermarkets like Carrefour, Goodwill, Fresco, and Agrohub stock a wide range of local and imported products. Local items remain highly affordable, while imported European goods carry slightly higher prices but stay competitive. Traditional markets overflow with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats at unbeatable prices.

A meal at a budget restaurant costs around GEL 30 (about USD 12), while dinner for two at a mid-range establishment runs GEL 120 (approximately USD 48). A fast-food combo meal goes for GEL 23 (roughly USD 9). Georgian cuisine, featuring khachapuri, khinkali, and pkhali, delivers authentic and generous flavors. Georgian wines, internationally acclaimed for quality, pair wonderfully with meals.

Internet, Phone, and Services

Georgia enjoys fast, reliable internet. A residential internet subscription costs approximately GEL 55 monthly (around USD 22), with speeds suitable for remote work and streaming. Mobile plans including calls and data go for about GEL 33 per month (roughly USD 13). Operators Magti, Geocell, and Beeline provide excellent coverage, even outside major cities.

Language and Communication

Georgian is the official language, and its unique alphabet can initially disorient. Fortunately, English is spreading rapidly in urban centers, particularly among younger generations and in shops frequented by expats. Learning basic Georgian phrases facilitates daily interactions and demonstrates respect for local culture. Apps like Duolingo or private lessons help you progress.

Safety and Living Environment

Georgia enjoys an enviable safety reputation. Crime rates remain low, and expats generally feel secure, even at night in major cities. The presence of stray dogs on streets may surprise — thousands exist — but a sterilization program is underway to control numbers. These animals are typically harmless.

Georgian Orthodox Christianity plays an important role in society, and respecting places of worship and religious traditions is appropriate. Hospitality constitutes a core cultural value: locals often prove welcoming and generous, though individual experiences naturally vary.

This balanced living environment, combining modern infrastructure with cultural authenticity, allows expats to settle quickly and comfortably while gradually discovering Georgian society's nuances.

Georgia's cost of living ranks among Europe's lowest while offering satisfactory comfort and modern infrastructure. Whether single or with family, here's a detailed breakdown of expenses for living comfortably in major Georgian cities.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person in Tbilisi

Here's a realistic estimate of monthly expenses for a single person living in Georgia's capital. These figures draw from October 2025 data and reflect comfortable living without excess.

Source: Numbeo Tbilisi, October 2025

With a budget of USD 1,500-1,900 monthly, a single person can live comfortably in Tbilisi, rent in a pleasant neighborhood, eat out regularly, and enjoy the capital's leisure offerings.

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four in Tbilisi

For a family of two adults and two children, expenses naturally increase, particularly for larger accommodation and international school tuition. Here's a realistic estimate based on October 2025 data.

Source: Numbeo Tbilisi, October 2025

International school tuition represents the heaviest expense for families. Opting for Georgian public schools or less expensive bilingual schools can reduce overall budgets to around USD 3,000-4,000 monthly.

Comparing Other Cities

In Batumi, living costs run slightly lower than Tbilisi, particularly for housing. A one-bedroom central apartment rents for approximately USD 600 monthly versus USD 710 in Tbilisi. Food and transport show similar or slightly lower prices, especially off-season.

In Kutaisi, Georgia's second city, prices are even more affordable, with one-bedroom rents dropping to USD 400-500 monthly. However, services, international schools, and professional opportunities remain more limited than in Tbilisi.

International Comparison

Compared to major Western cities, Georgia offers substantially higher purchasing power. Living costs here run approximately 50-70% lower than in London, Toronto, or Sydney. A budget allowing modest living in Western Europe or North America enables considerable comfort here, with the ability to rent a nice apartment, dine out regularly, and travel regionally.

This financial accessibility, combined with pleasant living conditions and modern infrastructure, explains why so many expats choose Georgia as their destination for working, living, or retiring.