Georgia to mandate work permits for most foreign workers starting March 1 ending informal rules

Employers must advertise jobs before applying for permits

Georgia will roll out a mandatory work permit system for most foreign workers from March 1, 2026, replacing the current informal approach. Employers will need to advertise vacancies before seeking permits. Foreign workers already in the country will have until January 1, 2027, to comply. The government says the change will improve labor oversight and reduce illegal employment, with penalties for violations.