Answer first

The permit type must match the real facts. Compare not just labels, but eligibility, evidence, continuity of the qualifying basis and your long-term objective.

A map of the main categories

The official framework includes work, study, family-reunification, investment, short-term property and other specialised routes. Some depend on a temporary economic or personal connection; others relate to longer-term or permanent status. The label alone says nothing about how straightforward the application will be.

Work and study routes

A work route requires evidence of genuine activity and the economic information required by current law; a nominal contract may not be enough. Study residence is linked to an eligible educational institution and genuine continuation of study. In either case, a change of circumstances can affect renewal.

Family reunification

The family route requires proof both of the relationship and of the principal person’s status in Georgia. Differences in names, dates and civil-status records should be corrected or explained in advance. Authentication and translation of foreign certificates are often critical.

Investment and property-based routes

On the official page verified 17 July 2026, investment residence requires a qualifying investment or property value exceeding the GEL equivalent of USD 300,000, while short-term property residence uses non-agricultural property with a market value exceeding USD 150,000. These are distinct routes; valuation, title, source of funds and transaction structure require separate review.

Five questions for a sound comparison

Compare: whether you are eligible; which fact must be proved; how stable that fact is; what evidence already exists; and what comes next—renewal, family reunification or a longer-term status. If two routes appear available, compare evidence quality rather than service speed alone.