Understanding Georgia's On Arrival Visa: What Travelers Need to Know

Key Takeaways

Starting April 2024, Georgia’s visa-free policy includes Peru, allowing travelers from over 90 nations to enter without a visa.
Georgia On Arrival Visa requires a passport valid for six months, proof of funds, return ticket, and visa fee payment.
The e-Visa system offers pre-travel approval, costing $20–$40 with processing times of 5–10 business days.

The Georgia On Arrival Visa provides an important gateway for individuals traveling to Georgia 🇬🇪 from nations that do not fall under the country’s visa-free entry policy. As part of Georgia’s efforts to encourage global tourism and simplify entry requirements, this visa type complements the broader visa-free framework and the increasingly popular e-Visa program. Below, we explore the key details of the Georgia On Arrival Visa, including its eligibility, benefits, requirements, and alternatives.

Visa-Free Entry Policy in Georgia 🇬🇪

Understanding Georgia’s On Arrival Visa: What Travelers Need to Know

Georgia’s visa-free policy represents the cornerstone of its progressive approach to welcoming international visitors. As of March 2024, individuals from over 90 countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and all European Union states, can enter Georgia without a visa for up to one year. For these travelers, there’s no need to obtain a Georgia On Arrival Visa. Notably, citizens of European Union member states even have the added convenience of entering with just their national ID card instead of a passport.

This visa-free arrangement covers a wide range of nationalities, significantly reducing the administrative burden for travelers. However, not all countries are included under this scheme, and this is where the Georgia On Arrival Visa and e-Visa options fill the gap for those who still require authorization to enter the country.

The Georgia On Arrival Visa: Purpose and Eligibility

The Georgia On Arrival Visa is primarily intended for short-term travelers from nations that are not eligible for visa-free entry. This visa allows tourists, business professionals, and others visiting Georgia to secure entry without undergoing pre-approval. Travelers simply acquire the visa upon arriving at designated ports of entry, such as Tbilisi International Airport.

At the same time, the On Arrival Visa’s relevance has diminished due to the increasing popularity of the Georgia e-Visa, which allows travelers to plan their trips more predictably before arrival. Travelers are advised to check their eligibility since requirements for the On Arrival Visa vary based on their nationality.

Requirements for a Georgia On Arrival Visa

Visitors applying for an On Arrival Visa must meet specific criteria to gain entry. Below is a breakdown of the standard requirements:

Passport Validity: A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of arrival is mandatory.
Proof of Sufficient Funds: Travelers may need to show evidence of financial resources, proving they have the means to cover their stay in Georgia.
Return or Forward Ticket: A confirmed return or onward flight ticket is often necessary.
Travel Insurance: While not obligatory, travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against health issues or unexpected incidents during the trip.
Visa Fee Payment: A set visa fee must be paid upon arrival.

Applicants planning to rely on this visa type should ensure they have these supporting materials readily available to avoid complications at the border.

The Rise of the e-Visa Option

The e-Visa system has gained traction as a straightforward and efficient alternative to the Georgia On Arrival Visa. This visa type is applied for online before travelers set foot in Georgia. Many visitors prefer this method since it allows them to avoid any administrative uncertainty upon arrival.

Here’s how to apply for an e-Visa:

Online Portal: Visit the official e-Visa website (https://www.evisa.gov.ge/GeoVisa/) to begin the application.
Complete Application: Fill out the form, providing personal details and travel information.
Upload Documents: Necessary documents, such as a passport scan, recent photo, proof of accommodation, and flight ticket, must be uploaded.
Pay Visa Fee: Depending on the visa type, fees range from $20 to $40.
Processing Time: Approval typically takes 5–10 business days.

The e-Visa allows for more predictable planning compared to on-arrival alternatives. As of 2025, the e-Visa processing also requires completing a DuVerify application within 24 hours of submitting the e-Visa form, for an additional fee of $15.

Recent Policy Changes and Additions

Georgia’s visa policies are dynamic, with several updates enhancing its accessibility for travelers:

Expanded Visa-Free Access: Starting April 2024, Georgia added Peru to the list of visa-free countries, taking the total to over 90 eligible nations.
COVID-19 Protocols: Entry still requires a negative PCR test certificate (except for children under 10), in addition to a valid visa, depending on the traveler’s country of origin.
DuVerify System for e-Visa Applications: This two-step processing system introduced in 2025 makes e-Visa applications slightly more complex but ensures thorough vetting.

Processing Times and Costs

For travelers who cannot enter visa-free or through the e-Visa system, Georgia On Arrival Visa processing is instant upon landing and involves fee payments on-site. However, applying in advance for the e-Visa or other visa types often allows for smoother arrangements:

Short-term visas: These include tourist and business visas, which are usually processed in a maximum of 10 calendar days through standard mechanisms.
Long-term visas: Including student, work, and D-category visas, these typically require up to 30 days. However, certain categories like the D5 visa are processed quicker—around 10 days.

Rights and Restrictions for Visa Holders

The Georgia On Arrival Visa comes with specific rights, including the ability to tour, attend conferences, and visit friends. However, like most short-term visas, it does not allow holders to take up employment or engage in long-term academic study. The e-Visa and other visa types impose similar restrictions. Travelers intending to work or reside long-term in Georgia must apply for specialized permits, such as the Work Visa or Residency Visa.

Integration with Pathways to Residency

While the Georgia On Arrival Visa is tailored for brief visits, it plays a role in initiating further visa or residency applications. Travelers entering Georgia on this visa type can use their stay to explore the country’s long-term residency options, particularly if they wish to migrate for business, education, or employment purposes.

Work visas and student visas are often seen as stepping stones toward permanent residence, provided applicants meet all the necessary legal and financial eligibility criteria.

Common Questions and Use Cases

Which travelers still require the On Arrival Visa?
Visitors from countries not covered under Georgia’s visa-free entry policy typically need this form of authorization. Eligibility details vary by country of origin.
What about last-minute travel?
The Georgia On Arrival Visa is an excellent solution for travelers who decide to visit at short notice but must be prepared with all required documents.
How does it compare with the e-Visa?
Unlike the On Arrival Visa, which depends on eligibility and port-of-entry conditions, the e-Visa offers predictability thanks to its pre-travel approval process.

Conclusion

The Georgia On Arrival Visa continues to serve as a useful solution for certain travelers, especially those from countries not covered by Georgia’s extensive visa-free entry policy. Still, its relevance has been somewhat superseded by the e-Visa system, owing to its convenience and pre-planning advantages.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, Georgia’s ongoing refinements to its visa policy underscore the country’s commitment to attracting global visitors while maintaining coherent entry protocols. The trend toward expanded visa-free access, combined with technological updates like e-Visa enhancements, signals Georgia’s evolving priorities in balancing openness with effective border management.

For comprehensive, up-to-date information about visa requirements, applicants can visit the official Georgian e-Visa portal at https://www.evisa.gov.ge/GeoVisa/. By staying informed and adequately prepared, individuals planning to visit Georgia 🇬🇪 can ensure a smooth and pleasant travel experience.

Learn Today

Visa-Free Entry Policy → A framework allowing nationals from specific countries to enter Georgia without a visa for up to one year.
Georgia On Arrival Visa → A short-term visa granted at designated entry points for travelers not eligible for visa-free entry.
e-Visa → An online visa application system enabling travelers to obtain travel authorization to Georgia before departure.
DuVerify System → A vetting process introduced in 2025 to enhance e-Visa application security and compliance for international travelers.
Residency Visa → A visa type granting extended stays for work, education, or other long-term purposes in Georgia.

This Article in a Nutshell

Georgia’s On Arrival Visa offers travelers from non-visa-free countries swift entry into this captivating destination. A passport, funds proof, and return ticket are key requirements. While convenient for last-minute trips, the e-Visa is gaining popularity for its pre-planning ease. Both options exemplify Georgia’s commitment to accessible, global tourism and vibrant cultural exchange.
— By VisaVerge.com