New Amendments to Georgia's Immigration Laws: Key Changes and What They Mean

19.03.2026

The amendments to Georgia's immigration laws are set to take effect on September 1st, 2025. These changes are designed to combat illegal migration and related criminal activities by implementing stricter controls and harsher penalties for foreign nationals. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Changes in the Law on Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons

• Expulsion and Entry Bans: Foreign nationals convicted of crimes under Georgia’s Criminal Code could face expulsion and entry bans for a specified period.

1. Non-compliance with removal procedures could lead to detention or temporary accommodation.

• Biometric Data Collection:

1. Foreign nationals without legal status in Georgia will be required to provide biometric data (photos, palm prints, fingerprints).
2. If refused, authorities may use “proportionate coercive measures” to collect data.

• Risk Assessment Mechanism: 

Foreign nationals will be assessed for the likelihood of absconding based on factors such as:

1. Use of false documents
2. Destruction of travel papers
3. Ambiguity about identity or nationality.

• Voluntary departure periods will range from 7 to 30 days.

Amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses

• New Penalties for Foreign Nationals:

Expulsion and Entry Bans for offenses like:

1. Petty hooliganism
2. Disobedience to law enforcement
3. Insulting public figures
4. Violations related to public gatherings.

Entry bans can last up to 3 years.

• Increased Fines for Immigration Violations: 

1. Overstaying by up to 3 months: Fine of 1,000 GEL or a 6-month entry ban.
2. Overstaying by more than 1 year: Fine of 3,000 GEL or a 3-year entry ban.
3. Higher fines for violations of transit regulations by foreign nationals.

• Fines for Georgian Citizens and Entities:

1. Those inviting, employing, or serving foreign nationals in violation of residency, work, or study regulations may face a fine of 2,000 GEL.

Proposed Changes to the Criminal Code

• Expulsion and Entry Bans: 

1. Foreign nationals convicted of crimes could face bans on re-entry, ranging from 2 to 10 years for lesser crimes, and 5 to 20 years for serious offenses.

• Obstruction of Deportation Orders:

Destruction of travel documents or refusal to engage in deportation procedures could result in:

1. Expulsion
2. Entry bans
3. Imprisonment for 1 to 6 years.

What This Means for Foreign Nationals and Entities in Georgia

1. Compliance is Crucial: These amendments introduce stricter controls and higher penalties. Foreign nationals and businesses in Georgia must ensure compliance to avoid serious consequences.
2. Legal Advice is Essential: Given the complexity of these changes, it’s important to consult an immigration law expert to understand how these amendments may affect you, your employees, or your business.

Author: Melano Svanidze, Georgios Kosasvili.