How to Buy Property in Georgia and Obtain a Residence Permit in 2025: A Complete Guide

For several years, Georgia has remained one of the most attractive countries for real estate investment and comfortable living. In 2024, the country’s economy recorded impressive GDP growth of 9.4%, and in the Index of Economic Freedom, Georgia ranked 32nd worldwide — ahead of many countries in the region.

A warm climate, developed infrastructure, favorable taxation, and affordable housing prices attract investors, freelancers, and families seeking a reliable “second base” for living and leisure.

One of the key advantages is the possibility of obtaining a Residence Permit through real estate purchase.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Georgia?

Yes. Foreigners have nearly the same rights to purchase property as Georgian citizens. The only restriction is on agricultural land, which cannot be purchased (though it can be inherited).

All you need for a purchase is a valid passport. The process itself is fast and transparent.

Residence Permit Threshold

Starting March 1, 2026, the minimum investment threshold to qualify for a Residence Permit has been raised to $150,000.

This can be either a single property or several, as long as the total value meets the threshold.

Once a Residence Permit is granted, you can live, work, and travel in the country visa-free, and extend residency status to immediate family members — spouse, children, and parents.

Key Conditions for Obtaining a Residence Permit Through Real Estate

To ensure your purchase qualifies for a Residence Permit, several conditions must be met:

• The property must be completed. Pre-construction or under-construction units are not eligible. A Residence Permit can only be applied for once the building is finished and approved for occupancy.

• The property must be habitable. It should be furnished, equipped with appliances, and ready for living.

• Valuation is based on market value. This is determined not by the contract price, but by a certified appraiser accredited by the Ministry of Justice.

How to Buy Property in Georgia: Step-by-Step

Step 1. Prepare documents

• Passport (valid for the entire loan or installment period, if applicable).
• For mortgages: proof of income or a bank statement confirming the source of funds.

Step 2. Choose a property

Work with reputable agencies or developers. Georgia’s market is growing, but not all developers are reliable.

Step 3. Conduct legal due diligence

Check for debts, encumbrances, or liens via the Public Registry of Georgia using the cadastral number.

Step 4. Sign the sales agreement

Contracts are prepared in at least three copies in Georgian and your language (English, Russian, etc.). The process can also be completed via power of attorney.

Step 5. Register the transaction at the House of Justice

• Standard registration: 4 days
• Expedited: 1 day or same day (additional fee applies)

Step 6. Pay the registration fee

Between 150 and 700 GEL ($54–252).

Step 7. Obtain the extract from the Public Registry

This document confirms ownership rights.

How to Obtain a Residence Permit Through Real Estate

1. Purchase property worth at least $150,000
2. Obtain an official valuation report from a certified appraiser
3. Submit documents to the House of Justice
4. Wait for review (usually 12–15 days)

Required documents:

• Ownership certificate from the registry
• Appraiser’s report
• Sales agreement
• Passport copy with notarized translation
• Completed application form
• Photo (can be taken on site)

A Residence Permit is granted for 1 year and can be renewed as long as the property remains in your possession. Family members (spouse, children, parents, siblings) can also receive a Residence Permit.

Alternative Paths to a Residence Permit in Georgia

1) Residence Permit through business registration

• Company must generate a minimum turnover of 50,000 GEL (~$17,000) per foreign employee annually (35,000 GEL for universities/medical institutions).
• Individual entrepreneurs must also show annual turnover of at least 50,000 GEL and maintain a personal bank balance of 15,000 GEL.
• A Residence Permit is initially granted for up to 1 year, renewable up to 12 years.

2) Investment Residence Permit (beyond residential property)

• Available for investments of $300,000 or more in Georgia’s economy (real estate, business, or commercial property).
• Valid up to 5 years, with potential conversion to permanent residency if certain turnover criteria are met.

3) Student Residence Permit

• Available to foreign students enrolled at Georgian universities.
• Requires proof of enrollment and financial means to cover the study period.

4) Family reunification Residence Permit

• Granted if a close relative (spouse, parent, child) is a Georgian citizen or resident. Requires proof of relationship and sufficient financial support.

5) Permanent or unlimited residence

• Available after 6 years of legal temporary residency, or 5 years for investors holding an investment Residence Permit.

Final Thoughts

Buying property in Georgia for a Residence Permit is a real and transparent path to legalizing your stay — provided you meet all requirements.

If you want not just to purchase real estate but to guarantee a Residence Permit without unpleasant surprises, consult experts who know the legal details and carefully vet each property.