Georgia's parliament approves C5 digital nomad visa

Georgia's parliament has approved a new C5 digital nomad visa in its third and final reading, marking a significant step to attract remote workers and boost the economy.

The amendments to the law on the legal status of foreigners and stateless persons were passed on April 16, 2026, according to Caliber.Az reporting via Georgian media. The parliament also approved related changes to labor migration legislation.

What is the C5 digital nomad visa?

The C5 is a multiple-entry short-term permit valid for up to five years. Holders can stay for a maximum of 12 consecutive months. It is available to citizens of countries designated as "safe" by Georgian authorities who enter for tourism purposes but work remotely for non-resident (overseas) employers. Spouses and minor children are also eligible.

Costs range from $20 to $500. The program includes expedited application procedures. Remote workers will be exempt from certain labor migration rules as long as they do not enter the local Georgian labor market. Authorities will have a new discretionary power to refuse applications based on "state immigration policy," with no right of appeal.

Context and background

Georgia has been a popular destination for digital nomads for years thanks to its generous visa-free regime (up to 365 days for citizens of 90+ countries), low cost of living, and vibrant coworking scene in Tbilisi. In 2020, it launched the "Remotely from Georgia" program with a $2,000 monthly income requirement to stimulate the post-pandemic economy.

The new C5 visa formalizes and builds on that appeal by targeting high-earning professionals.

Lawmakers from the ruling Georgian Dream party framed it as aligning with similar schemes in other countries. It comes at a time when many nations are competing to attract remote talent to drive economic growth without competing directly in local job markets.

What's confirmed and what remains unclear

As of April 16, 2026, the parliamentary approval in the third and final reading is confirmed. The core parameters, validity, eligibility, family inclusion, cost range, exemptions, and expedited processes, are set in the legislation.

It remains unclear exactly when applications will open, the precise application process and required documents, exact income or other eligibility thresholds beyond the general criteria, and how quickly processing will occur. Implementation details will likely follow in secondary regulations or official portals. The discretionary refusal power without appeal raises questions about transparency for applicants.

Critics have not been widely quoted in initial reporting, but the lack of appeal on refusals could be a point of concern for potential applicants seeking predictability.

What this means for digital nomads

For nomads already in Georgia on the visa-free regime, nothing changes immediately, you can continue your stay as before. The new C5 visa provides a formal, longer-term option for those wanting official status, family accompaniment, potential banking and vehicle ownership benefits, and a clearer path to extended stays without "visa runs."

What you should do now:

• Monitor official Georgian government websites (evisa.gov.ge, migration portals) and the parliament site for implementation announcements and application details.
• Prepare documentation: proof of remote work for a foreign employer, valid passport, health insurance, and any financial proofs that may be required.
• If planning a longer stay or bringing family, consider the C5 as it could simplify things once live

Georgia's move adds it to the growing list of countries competing for remote talent. Thanks to its combination of culture, nature, and now a dedicated visa, it could become an even stronger option for nomads in the Caucasus and Eastern Europe. Watch this space for updates as details emerge.

Ready to Consider Georgia as a Digital Nomad Base?