What documents are needed to apply for a residence permit in Georgia

What documents do you need for a Georgian residence permit — overview

Moving, working or investing in Georgia often starts with the same question: what documents do I need to apply for a residence permit? This guide helps buyers, investors and future residents prepare a complete and practical set of papers.

1. Know your residence category first 🧭

Residence permits differ by purpose: temporary by employment, family reunification, residency based on property ownership, or investment and permanent residence. The exact documents depend on which category you choose.

2. Universal documents (required in most cases)

• Valid passport or travel document.
• Completed application form for the migration authority.
• Passport-sized photos.
• Proof of legal entry into Georgia if applicable.
• Health insurance valid for the period of residence.
• Police clearance/statement of no criminal record from your country of origin or recent residence (may need translation and legalization).

3. Category-specific documents: property, employment, investment 🏠💼💰

• Property owners: proof of ownership in Georgia, such as a deed or purchase agreement. It is helpful to have cadastral information or official registration documents.
• Renters: a valid lease agreement showing landlord details and tenancy period.
• Employees: employment contract, employer registration details, or an official invitation from the employer in Georgia.
• Investors: documents proving the investment, company registration, contracts, or bank confirmations.

Note: Residency based on property often requires evidence that the property is real and available for your use, such as a recent purchase or an active lease.

4. Translations, notarization and apostille — plan ahead ✍️

Documents issued abroad usually need to be translated into Georgian or English and notarized. Some countries' documents also require an apostille. Check requirements in advance or ask a migration specialist to avoid delays.

5. How submission and verification work — practical steps

1. Prepare the full document package and make copies.
2. Arrange translations and notarizations ahead of submission.
3. Submit the application to the migration authority in person or via an authorized representative.
4. Be ready to provide additional documents on request.
5. Receive a decision and, if approved, collect your permit and residence card.

Keep all receipts and reference numbers; they help track your application and respond to queries.

6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them 🚫✅

• Incomplete documentation — use a checklist for your category.
• Incorrect or uncertified translations — work with reputable translators and notaries.
• Missing or inadequate health insurance — secure an appropriate policy before applying.

7. Practical tips for property buyers

• Coordinate document preparation alongside the property purchase. A signed purchase agreement and proof of payment make residency on property grounds smoother.
• If investing via a company, prepare company formation documents and registry extracts.
• Ask your agent to confirm that title documents are clean and suitable for migration purposes.

8. How BuyHome helps you 🏢

BuyHome assists with more than property search: we help check ownership documents, recommend translators and notaries, and advise on the best residency route for your situation. Start with property search at https://buyhome.ge/en or contact our team and we will guide you through the process.

If you want help preparing documents or building a tailored checklist for your residence permit application, contact us — we will support you every step of the way.