Georgia travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Georgia travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

The occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia

The administrative boundary lines between Georgia and the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia are not well defined and change frequently. The Russian military and border guards regularly patrol the area. You could be detained and arrested if you cross into these regions, even by mistake.

The checkpoints with these regions are subject to unexpected closures. Tensions are high in both occupied regions. Unexploded ordnance and landmines may pose a risk where military operations have occurred, especially in areas along the administrative boundary lines between the regions and the rest of Georgia, and near the border with Azerbaijan (Red Bridge area). There is also a risk of crime and kidnapping.

If you choose to travel to the occupied regions of Abkhazia or South Ossetia despite the advisory:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• cross only at official checkpoints
• carry valid identification with you at all times
• monitor local media to stay informed on the security situation and on checkpoint closures

Our ability to offer you consular services may be limited in these regions due to security concerns and travel restrictions.

Kidnapping

Kidnappings have occurred in the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as other areas bordering Russia.

If you travel to these areas:

• do not walk alone, especially after dark
• use varied and unpredictable routes and itineraries keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times
• be vigilant in crowded places, such as markets and public transportation facilities

Terrorism

There is a low threat of terrorism in Georgia, but an attack could occur at any time, including in places visited by foreigners, such as tourist sites and cultural events.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs, especially in crowded urban areas and at public gatherings.

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• do not show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times 

Violent crime

Violent crimes targeting foreigners occur occasionally. Incidents include:

• muggings
• burglaries
• carjackings
• sexual assaults

The police patrol frequently, but their response times in remote areas and outside larger cities can be significantly longer.

During your stay:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• avoid walking alone after dark
• avoid deserted areas at night
• avoid poorly lit alleys

Fraud

Credit card, debit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit card information.

• Use your own USB adaptor or carry an extra battery pack
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks

Cyber security while travelling

Romance scams and overcharging

Romance scams on dating sites or through social media have occurred. Typical overcharging scenarios involve locals luring tourists met online into bars or nightclubs. Tourists are forced to pay high bills after ordering expensive food and drinks.

• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online 
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location  
• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering 
• Don’t leave an open tab at bars and nightclubs
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff 
• Check your bill for accuracy before paying 

Overseas fraud

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons have been subject to harassment and violence due to their identity and sexual orientation. There have also been violent attacks against 2SLGBTQI+ persons during the Pride festivities in Tbilisi, resulting in casualties.

Georgian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex. However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. They could also face criminal charges under Georgia’s “Protection of Family Values and Minors” law, which criminalizes the promotion of same-sex relationships.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Georgia.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.  

Sexual assaults have occurred.

If you’re the victim of a sexual assault, you should seek medical assistance and report the incident to the Georgian police. You may also report it to the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy for assistance.

• Avoid dark alleys and isolated areas
• Avoid walking alone after dark
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing services and sit in the back seat

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food, drinks and other items

Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Landmines

Landmines and unexploded ordnance may pose a threat to your safety in various areas, including:

• near the Red Bridge border crossing with Azerbaijan
• in the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and along the administrative boundary lines

If you choose to travel to these areas:

• stay on main and paved roads 
• avoid walking in fields
• avoid roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails  
• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance
• keep in mind that landmines and unexploded ordnance fields may not always be clearly marked 

Adventure travel

Outdoor activities, such as zip-lining, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If you intend to participate in adventure travel activities:

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone  
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to these types of recreational activities   
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity  
• refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety
• monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards   

Roads

Road conditions

Road conditions vary considerably across the country.

Roads are generally in good condition in Tbilisi and in major cities, but in rural areas, they are sometimes poorly maintained and dangerous due to:

• unpaved and uneven surfaces
• raised and sunken manholes
• stray livestock
• lack of traffic signs
• insufficient lighting
• slippery roads and winter conditions, especially in mountainous areas

In rural areas, traffic signs may only be written in Georgian.

If you’re driving in mountainous areas in the winter, you must have snow tires or chains on your vehicle.

Driving habits

Fatal accidents are frequent and are one of the main causes of death in Georgia. It’s common for drivers to:

• frequently change lanes
• drive at excessive speeds
• drive under the influence
• engage in road rage

Pedestrians often cross in the middle of the road and drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way. If you choose to drive during your stay:

• always drive defensively
• don’t engage with drivers showing signs of road rage
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting rural areas 
• avoid travelling after dark
• always carry a cell phone and charger  

Road restrictions – Roads Department of Georgia

Public transportation

Taxis and ride-sharing services

In Georgia, taxis are regulated and are recognizable by their white colour and roof-mounted taxi signs. Unofficial taxis continue to operate, and drivers generally don’t use meters. They may overcharge you for the ride.

Ride-sharing services are also popular throughout Georgia.

If you choose to take taxis during your stay:

• arrange your pickup with a reputable company before arrival when travelling by air, or use authorized cabs at the airport 
• ask for your taxi at the front desk if you’re using hotel services 
• use only officially marked taxis
• never share a taxi with strangers
• negotiate the fare in advance if there is no meter
• have small bills available for payment.

Buses and Tbilisi metro

Buses and the Tbilisi metro are generally safe and reliable, but pickpockets may target tourists.

Mini-buses called "marshrutka" are poorly maintained and often lack security features like seatbelts. Avoid using them.

• Avoid storing bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
• Do not take buses that look overloaded or in poor condition

Trains

The condition and cleanliness of trains vary greatly from route to route.

• Make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t leave your compartment unattended
• Keep the compartment door locked from the inside

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Georgian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Georgia and include one blank page for an entry stamp.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 365 days
Business visa: not required for stays of up to 365 days
Student visa: not required for stays of up to 365 days

For extended stays beyond 1 year due to self-employment or employment, study/training, or family reunification, you require a residence permit. If this is not pre-arranged before you enter the country, you can submit your application for a residence permit to the Public Service Hall. You should apply early, so that the residence permit is issued before the end of the year of visa-free stay.

Useful links

• Georgian visa information – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia
• Postponing the obligation to leave – State Commission of Georgia on Migration Issues
• Residence permits – Public Service Hall

The occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia

If you choose to travel to the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, you will need prior authorization from Georgian authorities, who don’t recognize border crossings between Russia and these regions. If you enter Georgia via these regions at an unofficial border crossing, you could face heavy fines and jail sentences. If the self-declared authorities of these regions stamp your passport, Georgian authorities may consider you to have entered illegally.

Border regions

Russia

Georgian authorities only recognize the Kazbegi-Verkhnii Lars border crossing with Russia. If you choose to travel to and from the Russian border regions, avoid crossing at unofficial land borders connecting to the following Russian republics:

• Chechnya
• Dagestan
• Ingushetia
• Kabardino-Balkaria
• Karachay-Cherkessia

If you cross into Georgia through an unofficial border crossing with Russia, you could face heavy fines or jail sentences.

Azerbaijan

The land border with Azerbaijan is closed. If you plan to visit the Udabno Caves, be careful not to cross the border, which is unmarked.

Other entry requirements

Georgian dual citizens must enter and exit the country on their Georgian passport.

If you have overstayed the permissible time limit during a previous visit to Georgia, you may be denied re-entry. You should consult with Georgian authorities prior to travel.

Foreign nationals travelling to Georgia for tourism are required to present valid accident and health insurance covering the duration of their stay. You may be asked for proof of this by your airline before departure or by immigration authorities when you arrive in Georgia.

More information on insurance requirements – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Georgian authorities may hinder or deny entry to children whose physical appearance significantly differs from their passport photo. You should consider applying for a new passport before you travel if your child’s appearance has changed considerably.

Children and travel

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

High-quality medical services and facilities are generally available in major cities, such as Tbilisi and Batumi.

In rural areas, there are shortages of medical supplies and personnel. Facilities may not meet the quality standards you may be used to in Canada. First responders may not be able to access rural areas.

Medical personnel may not speak English.

Medical services can be expensive, and immediate up-front cash payment is often required.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Identification

If the police or a service provider, such as a hotel or bank employee, asks you for identification, you are expected to show your passport.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe, including when transiting through the airport. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Possession of even small amounts of cannabis can be punished with imprisonment.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Medication

Some prescription medication may not be available in Georgia.

If you take prescription medications, you are responsible for determining their legality in Georgia. Georgian authorities strictly regulate the possession and import of prescription medication under special control, including narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, and some over-the-counter medication that is commonly available in Canada.

• Bring enough medication for your stay 
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions in English
• Declare all medications in your possession to customs officials upon entry
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

If you carry prescription medication that is illegal under Georgian law, you could face deportation or a jail sentence.

Contact the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate for more information on imports of medication.

Useful links

• Medicinal products subject to special control – Revenue service of Georgia
• Foreign Representatives in Canada 

Knives

It’s illegal to carry certain types of knives in Georgia. If you are caught carrying one, you could be detained or fined.

Imports and exports

You may need to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Georgia to import or export cultural valuables. These include:

• archeological items
• coins, old inscriptions and seals
• handmade canvas, paintings and drawings
• sculptures

Cultural valuables – Revenue service of Georgia

Photography

Taking photographs of military installations, airports or government buildings may result in a penalty.

You should seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs of these facilities.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Georgia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Georgia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

Military service

Male Canadian citizens who are also citizens of Georgia and are between the ages of 18 and 27 may be subject to military service.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Georgia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Georgia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Georgian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Georgia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

Georgia has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving.

Penalties for drinking and driving include:

• heavy fines
• detention
• prohibition from driving for several months or years

International Driving Permit

Right of way

The right of way system is in effect in Georgia.

Drivers must yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections if they are not in a priority lane, and to vehicles entering roundabouts.

Surrogacy

If you’re planning to visit Georgia for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek legal advice on Georgian and Canadian laws and citizenship procedures prior to making any arrangements.

Only married heterosexual couples are allowed to use surrogacy services in Georgia; same-sex couples and single individuals are not permitted.

The timelines to receive a birth certification may be long. The Embassy of Canada to Türkiye in Ankara and Consulate of Canada to Georgia in Tbilisi are unable to provide recommendations on surrogacy arrangements or intervene with local authorities on your behalf.

Money

The currency of Georgia is the lari (GEL). 

Credit cards may not be widely accepted in rural areas.

• Avoid exchanging money in unlicensed facilities
• Make sure you have cash at all times for payment

Currency declaration

There are restrictions on the import and export of currency. You must declare to customs officials if you have more than 30,000 GEL or its equivalent in your possession.

This requirement applies to:

• cash
• traveller's cheques
• any other type of financial instrument

Failure to comply with this requirement could result in fines and confiscation.

Movement of currency – Revenue service of Georgia

Natural disasters and climate

Flooding and landslides

The rainy season usually extends from April to July. Heavy rains may result in significant flooding and landslides, especially in the following regions:

• Imereti
• Kvemo Kartli
• Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
• Shida Kartli

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Seismic activity

Georgia is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes may cause landslides in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial tremor.

Air pollution

Air pollution can be hazardous, especially in Tbilisi.

Air pollution levels can change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions
• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Air quality portal – Government of Georgia