George Investment Visa: A Comprehensive Guide
George Investment Visa: An Overview
The Georgian Investment Visa, more formally known as the Investment Residence Permit or Short-Term Residence Permit based on Property Ownership, provides a clear, official path for foreign nationals to secure legal residence in the country through a qualifying economic contribution.
This program is structured around two main investment thresholds, offering a choice between a direct path to a long-term permit and a lower-entry, renewable option.
1. The Short-Term Residence Permit (Property Ownership)
This is the most common and accessible option, aimed at investors who purchase qualifying non-agricultural real estate.
Investment Threshold: Minimum of $100,000 USD equivalent in Georgian Lari (GEL) in one or more non-agricultural real estate properties (e.g., residential apartments, houses, or commercial units).
Initial Permit Duration: One year, issued to the main investor and their immediate family.
Renewal and Path to Permanent Status: The permit is renewable annually, provided the investor maintains ownership of the property and its value remains above the minimum threshold (as confirmed by a state-recognized appraiser). After six years of continuous short-term residency, the investor becomes eligible to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit.
2. The Investment Residence Permit (High-Value Investment)
This higher-tier option offers a significantly faster route to a five-year permit and eventual indefinite residence. This can be achieved through a high-value real estate purchase or a strategic business investment.
Investment Threshold: Minimum of $300,000 USD equivalent in GEL.
Investment Options:
High-Value Real Estate: Purchase of non-agricultural real estate valued at $300,000 USD or more.
Business Investment: Investment of $300,000 USD into a new or existing Georgian enterprise.
Initial Permit Duration: Five years, issued immediately.
Path to Indefinite Stay (Renewal):
Real Estate: If the investor maintains the ownership of the qualifying property for the entire five-year period, the permit can be converted into a Residence Permit for Indefinite Stay (renewable every five years).
Business Investment: To maintain the five-year permit and qualify for the indefinite stay permit, the business investment must meet specific minimum annual turnover requirements:
Year 1: $50,000 USD
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Year 2: $100,000 USD
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Years 3-5: $120,000 USD
George Investment Visa: Application Process
Obtaining the Georgian Investment Residence Permit is a structured, clear process that can be efficiently managed with local legal support:
1. Select Investment Path: The applicant chooses between the $100,000 USD Short-Term Permit and the $300,000 USD Investment Residence Permit.
2. Make the Investment:
- Real Estate: Purchase the qualifying non-agricultural property and register the ownership with the Public Registry.
- Business: Form a company in Georgia and execute the qualifying $300,000 investment.
3. Obtain Valuation/Audit Report: For real estate, a certified Georgian appraiser must confirm the market value exceeds the minimum threshold. For a business, a qualified auditor must verify the investment amount.
4. Gather Documents: Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of legal stay in Georgia (if applicable), the property/business documents, and a criminal record report.
5. Submit Application: The application is submitted to the Public Service Development Agency at the Public Service Hall. While the first application must be submitted in person, subsequent renewals can often be handled remotely via a Power of Attorney.
6. Receive Permit: Upon approval (typically within 10-30 days), the applicant and their family are issued a Residence Card, marking their official status as residents of Georgia.
Useful links:
Georgia Residence Permit And Residence Card：https://migration.commission.ge/index.php?article_id=15&clang=1