Georgia

You need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) if you plan to generate income in Georgia (e.g., from renting out your apartment), open a business bank account, or register a company. For a simple property purchase as an individual, your foreign passport number is usually sufficient for the Public Registry, but obtaining a TIN is recommended for future tax purposes.

You must visit a Revenue Service (RS) office in person. You need your passport and a completed application form. The process is typically free or costs a nominal fee and takes about one business day. You will receive a certificate with your 9-digit tax code.

Opening an account has become stricter for foreigners due to anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. You must visit a bank (e.g., Bank of Georgia or TBC Bank) in person. You will need your passport, a Georgian SIM card, and—crucially—proof of income/funds (KYC documents like bank statements from the last 6 months, employment contract, or proof of property ownership). The bank reviews your application for 1-3 days before approval.

Yes. You can make a SWIFT transfer directly from a Polish bank (in USD or EUR) to the developer’s or seller’s account. Ensure you select the “OUR” cost option so you cover all transfer fees, ensuring the seller receives the exact contract amount.

Yes. Any official document issued in Poland (Power of Attorney, birth certificate, marriage certificate) intended for legal use in Georgia must be translated into Georgian and certified with an Apostille by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Yes, absolutely. For any significant deposit or transfer (usually over 30,000 GEL / approx. $11,000), Georgian banks strictly enforce AML rules. You must provide a “Source of Funds” document, such as a property sale agreement from Poland, tax returns, or dividend statements.

Only if they are Apostilled in Poland and then translated into Georgian (with the translation notarized in Georgia). A plain document from a Polish notary without an Apostille has no legal weight in Georgia.

You do not need to go to court. You check it online via the National Agency of Public Registry (napr.gov.ge). By entering the cadastral code of the property, you can download an official “Extract” (in Georgian, but translatable) which shows current ownership, mortgages, and liens. It costs about 15-20 GEL.

0%. There is no property transfer tax, stamp duty, or PCC equivalent for the buyer in Georgia. You only pay small registration fees (approx. $20-$80).

This is unique to Georgia. You usually choose between:

• Black Frame: Bare concrete, no windows/doors, no internal walls.

• White Frame: Concrete shell with internal walls, windows, electricity/plumbing brought to the unit (but not distributed), screed on the floor. This is the most common standard.

• Green Frame: White frame + heating pipes installed, walls plastered, sometimes basic electrical wiring done.

• Turnkey: Fully finished with furniture (rarely offered directly by developers, often via a partner).

For a foreigner, it is difficult. You visit the bank with your passport, legalized proof of income, and a property appraisal. Interest rates for foreigners in USD/EUR are high (often 8-10%+), and the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio is low (max 50-60%). Banks strongly prefer income generated in Georgia.

The standard commission is 3% to 5% of the sale price. In almost all cases, this commission is paid by the seller (developer or owner), not the buyer.

Georgia does not have a strict “tourist license” system. You do not need a license to list on Airbnb. However, you should register with the Revenue Service as a taxpayer to pay the rental tax (usually 5% for residential rentals).

• Developer Installment Plan: Usually 30%.

• Bank Mortgage: Usually 40-50% down payment is required for non-residents.

It is very low. For households with annual income below 40,000 GEL (approx. $15k), it is 0%. For income 40k-100k GEL, it is 0.05%-0.2% of the property value. For income >100k GEL, it is 0.8%-1%.

Passport, loan application, appraisal of the property being bought, and proof of income (Apostilled tax returns or bank statements from Poland showing steady income covering the loan payments).

Maintenance fees (service charge) in modern buildings (“corpus”) range from $0.50 to $1.50 per square meter per month. Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) are relatively cheap, totaling roughly $50-$100/month for an active apartment.

Usually, the agent is paid immediately after the full payment is received by the seller or upon signing the main contract and transferring the first substantial installment.

It is percentage-based (3-5%). Fixed fees are rare.

The seller transfers the commission to the agency’s bank account against an invoice after the deal closes (or according to the agency agreement terms).

Yes, if you are bringing multiple buyers (bulk deal), you can negotiate a lower commission or, more commonly, a discount on the property price for your clients.

Generally, yes, if the agent introduced the client to the developer. Most developer-agent contracts protect the agent for any purchase made by that specific client within a certain timeframe.

The standard rate is 20%. However, if you register as a natural person renting out residential space, you can apply for a preferential rate of 5% (calculated on gross income, no deductions).

Property tax (often 0%), maintenance fee ($1/sqm), utility standing charges (very low), and optional insurance ($100-$200/year).

There is no specific “enrichment tax” separate from Capital Gains Tax. Capital gains tax is 5% (if sold within 2 years of purchase) or 0% (if sold after 2 years).

In Poland. A cash loan or mortgage on a Polish property will have much lower interest rates and fewer bureaucratic hurdles than a mortgage for a foreigner in a Georgian bank (where rates are high).

No. A Polish bank cannot secure a mortgage on a property located in Georgia.

Management companies typically charge 15% to 20% of the gross rental income. This covers guest communication, check-in/out, and listing management. Cleaning fees are usually paid by the guest.

Yes. You can buy commercial space or a whole building. You will likely need to register a Georgian LLC (Limited Liability Company) for tax efficiency and operational licenses.

You must apply to the local Municipality (City Hall) for a “Change of Function.” It requires an architectural project and safety inspection. It is bureaucratic but possible.

Yes. Foreigners can inherit property. There is no inheritance tax in Georgia. You will need to present the death certificate and will (Apostilled) to the Public Registry.

Yes, theoretically under the Civil Code, but specific terms vary. Good developers offer 1-2 years on internal finishings and longer on the structural frame. Always check the contract carefully.

Non-structural changes (moving walls in a White Frame unit) are allowed. Structural changes (touching pillars, facade, load-bearing walls) require a permit from City Hall.

It is not mandatory by law for cash buyers. It is mandatory if you take a bank loan.

Legally yes, but practically no. A foreign bank (e.g., Polish) will typically not accept a Georgian asset as collateral due to the difficulty of cross-border foreclosure.

Yes. Gifts to first-degree relatives (spouse, child, parent) are exempt from income tax in Georgia.

Same as long-term rentals: register and pay 5% on gross income. If you fail to register, you face fines and a 20% tax rate.

It is not “easy” anymore. You usually need proof of employment/income (from abroad is acceptable) and a Georgian address (can be the property you bought). Residency helps significantly but is not strictly mandatory for all banks.

Prices have been rising (especially in Tbilisi and Batumi) due to migration and tourism, though the market has stabilized somewhat in 2025 compared to the rapid growth of previous years.

They require a higher down payment (40%+) and often a guarantor or proof of substantial foreign income.

No. You cannot legally rent out a property that hasn’t been physically handed over (keys received). Pre-selling rental futures is not a standard practice.

Usually 1 to 3 years provided by the developer.

Yes, if you buy at the “Black Frame” or early construction stage, developers are very flexible and often allow you to customize the layout.

Rarely, if you check the Public Registry properly. The Extract reveals all mortgages and seizures. However, verify outstanding utility bills or maintenance fees with the building management (“Amkhanagoba”).

The rights to the future property are registered (pre-registration). The final title is registered after completion. You cannot sell what isn’t registered at least preliminarily.

Yes, the Law on Energy Efficiency of Buildings is being phased in. New buildings must meet minimum energy performance standards, and energy performance certificates are becoming mandatory.

Yes. The Investment Residence Permit is available for purchasing real estate valued at over $100,000 (short term) or $300,000 (long term).

Yes. TBC Capital and Galt & Taggart publish excellent, detailed quarterly reports on the Tbilisi and Batumi residential markets in English.

No. There is no rent control. Landlords are free to set and raise rents according to market demand.

Not mandatory for cash buyers. It is highly recommended to insure against fire and third-party liability (flooding neighbors), which costs about $100/year.

You (or your proxy) inspect the unit. If it is “White Frame,” you check if walls are straight, windows work, and utilities are at the input point. You sign a “Handover Act”. If there are defects, you list them in a protocol for the developer to fix.

There is no PCC (Civil Law Transaction Tax) in Georgia. The relief is that this tax simply does not exist for real estate transfers; you pay 0%.

Generally, spousal consent is not required for a foreigner to purchase real estate in Georgia on their own. However, under Georgian family law, property acquired during marriage may be considered joint marital property. Therefore, when selling the property later, the spouse’s notarized consent will likely be required to complete the transaction legally.​

No, residency is not required. Foreigners have full rights to buy residential and commercial properties in Georgia using just their passport. The only major restriction applies to agricultural land, which foreigners cannot purchase directly.​

Yes, Polish citizens can buy real estate without any special permits. The process is transparent and fast, often completed in a single day via the Public Service Hall (House of Justice). Poland and Georgia have good relations, and EU citizens face no additional hurdles.​

You need a notarized Power of Attorney (PoA). If you are in Poland, you must execute the PoA at a notary and then get it Apostilled by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This document is then sent to Georgia, translated into Georgian, and registered. If you are in Georgia, a local notary can handle it on the spot.​

The primary restriction is a ban on foreigners purchasing agricultural land. This includes farm plots and vineyards. Buying apartments, houses in non-agricultural zones, or commercial spaces is fully unrestricted. Sometimes, land status can be converted, but it is a complex bureaucratic process.​

Yes, both Georgian and foreign companies can purchase real estate. Buying through a Georgian LLC is a common strategy for larger investments or to manage tax liabilities efficiently, though it does not automatically bypass the agricultural land ban unless specific criteria are met.​

Not directly. Purchasing real estate grants you the right to apply for temporary residency, not citizenship. Citizenship typically requires 10 years of legal residence, language proficiency, and history tests. There is a “state interest” exception where the President can grant citizenship for significant investments, but this is discretionary and rare.​

Yes. An investment of at least $100,000 USD in real estate qualifies you for a short-term residence permit (1 year, renewable). An investment of over $300,000 USD grants a 5-year investment residence permit, which can lead to permanent residency.​

Yes, this is very common. A proxy (lawyer or trusted agent) can sign the purchase agreement and register the title at the Public Service Hall on your behalf using a valid Power of Attorney.​

Yes, if your Power of Attorney is drafted correctly, your proxy can finalize all steps, including signing the handover act and receiving keys, even after you have left the country.

Yes, you can make a SWIFT transfer from Revolut to the developer’s or seller’s Georgian bank account. Be aware that intermediary banks and the receiving Georgian bank (e.g., TBC or Bank of Georgia) may charge fees. It is best to select the “OUR” instruction (sender pays fees) to ensure the full amount arrives.​

Yes, due to strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) regulations. For amounts exceeding roughly 30,000 GEL (approx. $11,000), banks may require proof of funds (SoF), such as a salary statement, property sale contract, or dividend receipt from your Polish company.

Transaction costs are very low:

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Property Transfer Tax: 0% (for the buyer).

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Registration Fee: Between 50 and 200 GEL (approx. $20-$80), depending on the speed of service (same-day vs. 4 business days).

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  ​

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Notary/Legal Fees: Optional but recommended; typically $100-$300. Many transactions are done directly at the Public Registry without a notary.

There are no specific “purchase reliefs” for foreigners, but the system is inherently tax-friendly (no VAT for the buyer on the price usually, no stamp duty).

Yes, Georgia is very crypto-friendly. Many developers accept USDT or Bitcoin. Usually, a third-party exchange partner converts the crypto to fiat (USD/GEL) to settle the contract legally, as the official purchase price in the registry must be in fiat currency.​

Typically, yes. The listed price usually includes VAT (18%), which is the developer’s liability. As a buyer, the price you see is the final price you pay.

While physically possible, it is legally risky and discouraged for large sums due to AML laws. The Public Registry does not demand proof of bank transfer for registration, but carrying large amounts of cash is dangerous, and depositing it into a bank will trigger Source of Funds checks. Developers strongly prefer bank transfers.​

No. Tax residency is determined by spending 183+ days in Georgia within any 12-month period, or via the “High Net Worth Individual” program. Owning property alone does not make you a tax resident.

Yes, if you hold the residential property for at least 2 years, you are exempt from capital gains tax (5%) upon resale. If you sell before 2 years, you pay 5% tax on the profit (difference between purchase and sale price).​

Generally, residential property sales are VAT-exempt or taxed in a way that doesn’t allow for a standard refund for the buyer. However, if a Georgian VAT-registered company buys commercial property for business use, it may be able to claim VAT credit, subject to complex tax rules.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Reservation: Sign a preliminary agreement and pay a deposit (usually $1,000-$3,000).

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Due Diligence: Check the extract from the Public Registry to ensure no liens/mortgages exist.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Contract: Sign the main Purchase Agreement (in Georgian and your language).

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Payment: Transfer funds according to the schedule.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Registration: Register your ownership at the Public Service Hall. You receive a unique extract code confirming your rights.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  ​

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Handover: Receive keys and sign the acceptance act (often after “White Frame” or “Green Frame” completion).

It involves signing a simple reservation contract and paying a non-refundable fee (approx. $1,000-$2,000). This freezes the price and takes the unit off the market for a short period (e.g., 2-4 weeks) while you arrange the main contract.

It is generally safe, but verify the developer’s reputation. Look for completed projects. “Long-stalled constructions” were an issue in the past, but regulations have tightened. Always check the land title in the Public Registry before paying.​

Yes, but this depends heavily on the contract terms. Georgian law protects consumers, but enforcement can be slow. Ensure your contract clearly defines the condition (e.g., “Green Frame”) and penalties for delays or defects.​

You can sue for damages or contract termination. However, litigation can be lengthy. Reputable developers often offer penalty clauses (e.g., 0.1% of the price per day of delay) in the contract.

If obtaining a mortgage from a Georgian bank (possible but high interest rates for foreigners), the down payment is typically 30-40%. Developers often offer interest-free internal installments with similar initial down payments (e.g., 30% down, rest over 24 months).​

Hire an independent lawyer or reputable agent to perform a video walkthrough and check documents. Use a Power of Attorney for the signing. Never send money to a personal account; always to the company’s official corporate account referenced in the contract.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Currency Risk: Rents are often in USD, but local regulations fluctuate.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Construction Delays: Common in booming markets.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  “White/Green Frame” Confusion: Ensure you understand that you are often buying a concrete shell (“White Frame”) that needs significant finishing work, not a move-in ready apartment.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  ​

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Geopolitics: Regional stability is a factor to consider.

You can rent it out immediately. However, you must register as a taxpayer to pay the rental income tax (usually 5% for residential rentals if registered correctly; otherwise 20%).

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Full Payment: Often secures a discount.

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Internal Installments: Very popular. Pay 30% down, and the rest in monthly/quarterly installments until construction ends (0% interest usually).

• p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0″>

  Bank Mortgage: Less common for foreigners due to high rates (8-12%+ in USD/EUR).

Typically, funds go directly to the developer. Escrow accounts are not the standard market practice in Georgia yet. This emphasizes the need to choose established developers.​

(Repeated for emphasis) Yes, after holding the property for 2 years.

You cannot sell the entire property without the co-owner’s consent. You can only sell your share, but finding a buyer for a partial share is difficult. A court can order a forced sale or division if no agreement is reached.

It is not mandatory by law but is standard practice for under-construction properties to define installment terms and obligations before the final title transfer.

No legal restrictions exist. You can sell immediately (creating a “flip”). However, if you sell before 2 years, you owe 5% tax on the profit.

There is no specific VAT relief for first-time buyers. The VAT burden lies with the developer.

The registration itself takes 1 to 4 days. The entire process (viewing, negotiation, signing) can be completed in 1-2 weeks.

If the building is finished (“commissioned”), you get keys immediately after signing the handover act. If under construction, it depends on the “condition” purchased (e.g., White Frame delivery date).

Yes, you have full disposal rights immediately after registration. Gifting to close relatives (spouse, child, parent) is tax-free.

No limits. You can buy as many as you can afford.

(Repeated) Yes, minimum $100,000 investment.

No statutory limit, but market standard is $1,000-$3,000.

Mortgages are available in USD and EUR, often with slightly lower rates than in GEL, but you bear the exchange rate risk.

Yes, the “Law on Protection of Consumer Rights” applies, but practical enforcement in real estate can be challenging compared to the EU.

Fees (registry) are paid immediately upon submission. Property payments follow the contract schedule.

Usually, the initial reservation deposit is non-refundable. Installment refunds depend on the contract (often with a penalty).

Depends entirely on the booking terms (Airbnb/Hotel). No special state guarantee covers this.

Typically, yes. Developers may offer a grace period, but eventually, they can terminate the contract and retain a penalty portion (often the deposit + some %) from the paid funds.

SWIFT transfer, money transfer services (Wise, Paysend – if supported), or card payment if the developer has a POS terminal.

Yes, this is a risk. While the market has matured, “frozen” projects happen. Mitigate this by buying from top-tier developers (e.g., Alliance, Orbi, m2) or buying finished units.

No, both spouses do not need to be present. In Georgia, you can purchase property individually. If the presence of both is required by your home country’s specific laws or for joint ownership, the absent spouse can grant a notarized Power of Attorney to the other spouse or a representative to complete the purchase.​

It depends on the finishing standard. If you buy a property in “Black Frame” or “White Frame” (unfinished) condition, you will need to complete renovations first. If you purchase a “Turnkey” apartment, it is fully finished and furnished, allowing you to move in immediately.​

There is no strict legal deadline, but it is recommended to decide quickly. Developers usually allow you to reserve a specific unit for a few days to a week with a deposit. Delaying may risk the property being sold to someone else or a price increase.

Yes, support typically includes the presence of a translator or multilingual staff to assist you during property viewings and throughout the legal transaction process.

Yes, legal support is available. You can use the platform’s partner lawyers or hire an independent attorney to verify the developer’s reputation and ensure the sales contract protects your interests.​

No, your physical presence is not mandatory. You can complete the entire purchase process remotely by granting a Power of Attorney to a trusted representative or lawyer in Georgia.​

Yes, partners usually offer post-sales services that include assisting new owners with setting up utility contracts and other administrative matters.​

Yes, airport pickup is a standard part of the service for clients arriving for investment tours to view properties.

Policies vary, but during organized investment tours, accommodation is often provided at a preferential rate or may be refunded/deducted from the purchase price if a transaction is finalized.

There is no limit on the amount of foreign currency you can bring into Georgia. However, if you carry cash exceeding 30,000 GEL (or its equivalent in foreign currency), you must declare it at customs upon arrival.​

You can see as many properties as the schedule allows. Typically, an investment tour includes viewing several properties (e.g., 5–10) over the course of a few days to give you a broad comparison.

If you miss your flight, you should contact the agency or platform representative immediately. They will reschedule your pickup and adjust the itinerary for your new arrival time.

The agency or platform organizing your visit can usually book accommodation for you at partner hotels or apartments. Alternatively, you can book independently through standard travel sites.

Yes, professional agents support you during negotiations to help secure the best possible price, payment plans, or additional inclusions from the developer.​

Basic assistance is often included in the service. However, official government registration fees or small administrative charges for setting up specific accounts may apply. Opening a bank account is generally a low-cost procedure.​

Yes, clients are provided with comprehensive support in their native language throughout the entire buying process to ensure all documents and procedures are clear.

A stay of 3 to 5 days is typically recommended. This provides enough time to view properties, select the best option, and sign the preliminary contracts or Power of Attorney.​

Generally, services are dedicated to clients registered with the platform or its specific partners. Clients invited by external agencies are usually handled by those agencies unless a specific cooperation agreement is in place.

Fees vary depending on the complexity of the service. Standard property registration at the Public Service Hall is very affordable. Full legal due diligence by a private lawyer may cost extra, though it is often included in the agency’s service package.​

No, personal presence is not required. You can sign the deed remotely through a representative holding a valid, notarized Power of Attorney.​