Georgia Bans Foreigners from Taxi, Courier, and Tour Guide Roles
By Messenger Staff
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Starting March 1, foreign nationals without permanent residency in Georgia will be prohibited from working as taxi drivers, couriers, or tour guides. The new rules follow a February 20 decree signed by Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.
The ban was achieved by setting a zero quota for these specific jobs within a newly created work permit system. This means that while the roles exist, no permits will be granted to foreigners to fill them. The policy is part of a wider effort to manage migration. Officials from the Georgian Dream party estimate that 20,000 illegal migrants live in the country and have committed to deporting 4,000 people this year.
"The government is engaged in an uncompromising battle against illegal migration," according to a statement from the ruling party.
Under the updated regulations, any company wanting to hire a foreign worker must first try to hire a Georgian citizen. Employers are required to post job openings on the state employment portal, Worknet, for at least 10 working days.
If the State Employment Support Agency finds a local candidate, the employer must consider them. If the employer rejects the agency's candidate, they have three days to submit an electronic explanation. The agency then decides if the company can proceed with hiring a foreigner or if the process must stop.
Self-employed foreigners must apply for their own permits and complete a video interview. A standard 30-day review costs 200 GEL. Those who need an expedited 10-day review must pay 400 GEL.
Most permits will last between six months and one year, though IT workers can receive three-year authorizations. The permit only becomes valid once the worker also secures a D1 visa or a residence permit. After obtaining a permit, foreigners already in Georgia have 10 days to submit their application, while those abroad have 30 days.
Not every job is subject to the strict 10-day posting rule. Exceptions include international companies, startups, and high-paying positions with salaries over 15,000 GEL per month. The new rules also do not apply to refugees, asylum seekers, diplomats, or those with residency through investment.
For foreigners already working in Georgia, the government is providing a transition period. Enforcement for these individuals will begin on May 1, 2026. Those already registered in the Health Ministry's database have until January 1, 2027, to fully comply with the new permit requirements. Failure to follow the rules can lead to the automatic revocation of work rights and legal penalties for both the worker and the employer.
