How a Foreigner Can Open a Bank Card in Georgia

Introduction

Opening a bank card in Georgia is often straightforward compared with many countries, and it is a practical first step if you plan to live, work, or invest in property here. This guide explains what to expect, how to prepare, and how to minimize delays and fees. 🧾

Who this guide is for

Useful for foreigners who:

• plan to move to Georgia;
• buy real estate as an investment or second home;
• need a local account for payments, utilities, or property management.

Documents to prepare

Most banks ask for a basic set of documents. Prepare:

• valid passport;
• proof of address (if available) or temporary address details;
• sometimes a proof of income or source of funds, especially for business accounts or higher limits.

For non‑residents, a bank may require additional verification. Having translations or notarized copies ready can speed up the process.

Card and account types

You can open accounts in Georgian lari (GEL) and in major currencies (USD, EUR). Consider your main needs:

• daily expenses and utilities — a GEL account is convenient;
• international transfers and investments — maintain a currency account;
• property purchases in Georgia are often settled in GEL, though currency options vary.

Resident vs non‑resident

Residents usually get faster onboarding and broader services. Non‑residents can open accounts, but banks may offer basic packages initially and expand services after account activity is established.

Can you open a card remotely?

Some banks and fintech providers allow remote initiation, but full verification frequently requires a branch visit or notarized documents. A practical approach for buyers is to start remotely and complete verification during a short visit to Georgia.

Fees and hidden costs

Ask for the full tariff schedule in writing. Pay attention to:

• ATM cash withdrawal fees at third‑party machines;
• international transfer fees and exchange margins;
• monthly maintenance or currency conversion charges.

Request illustrative examples from the bank to compare realistic costs.

Security and online banking

Ensure the bank offers a modern mobile app, multi‑factor authentication, and timely transaction notifications. For property owners, quick access to statements and payment history is essential.

Tips for property buyers and investors

• Open an account before signing contracts to simplify deposit and transfer processes.
• Discuss escrow or trusted transfer options with your bank when handling large sums.
• Keep all receipts and transfer confirmations for tax and legal purposes.

Step‑by‑step process

1. Prepare passport and proof of address;
2. Contact the bank or fintech to confirm requirements;
3. Start remote registration if available;
4. Complete identity checks at a branch or via notarization;
5. Activate the card and set up online banking with strong security.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Long verification times — confirm required documents beforehand.
• Wrong account currency — choose the currency that matches your main needs.
• High transfer costs — compare tariffs and consider specialist transfer providers for large sums.

Conclusion and BuyHome support 🏡

Opening a bank card in Georgia is manageable if you prepare the right documents and choose the bank that matches your needs. If you are buying property, BuyHome can recommend banks and help coordinate payments and documentation.

Would you like help selecting a bank when buying property in Georgia? Contact us through https://buyhome.ge/en or start property search at https://buyhome.ge/en/search — we’ll assist with practical steps and reliable partners.