A significant announcement has shaken the Ukrainian community in Georgia: the government has decided to shorten the visa-free stay for Ukrainians.
From now on, Ukrainians can stay in the friendly neighboring country for only one year without a visa, instead of the previous three.
Georgia limits visa-free access for Ukrainians: one year instead of three
The corresponding decree has been signed by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, effectively reverting the border crossing conditions to pre-war standards. This move came as a surprise, as Georgia had been demonstrating support for Ukrainians since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, initially extending the visa-free period to two years, and then to three.
This decision was seen as a gesture of solidarity and assistance to those forced to leave their homes due to the war.
Currently, there has been no official comment from the Georgian authorities regarding the reasons for such a drastic reduction. This has raised many questions and concerns among Ukrainians who found shelter in Georgia, as well as those planning to visit the country for personal or business purposes.
According to unofficial reports circulating in the media and among the Ukrainian community in Georgia, there is a possibility of a transitional period.
It is reported that Ukrainian citizens who entered Georgia before February 24, 2025, and have not yet obtained a residence permit, will have the right to stay in the country without a visa until February 24, 2026. However, this information remains at the rumor level and requires official confirmation from the Georgian authorities.
This has truly shocked us. Many were planning their futures based on the three-year visa-free period. Now everything is once again in question.
Olena, a Ukrainian living in Tbilisi for over a year
The Ukrainian consulate in Georgia has not officially commented on the situation. However, diplomatic sources advise Ukrainian citizens to carefully monitor official announcements from the Georgian authorities and to seek clarifications if questions arise.
Experts in international law and migration have already begun analyzing the possible consequences of this decision.
The reduction of the visa-free period may lead to increased pressure on Georgia's migration services and create additional administrative challenges for Ukrainians wishing to stay in the country for a longer duration.
In light of the tense geopolitical events in the region, Georgia's decision raises many questions regarding future relations between the two countries and support for Ukrainian citizens affected by Russian aggression.
The official Kyiv remains silent on this situation, but a response from the Ukrainian government is undoubtedly forthcoming.
Further developments and official statements from the Georgian side will soon shed light on the reasons behind this unexpected move and its implications for Ukrainians.
Ukrainian citizens currently in Georgia or planning to visit should be particularly vigilant and stay updated on any changes to migration rules.