Georgia travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

Abkhazia and South Ossetia

The administrative boundary lines between Georgia, South Ossetia and Abkhazia 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 South Ossetia and Abkhazia, even by mistake.

The checkpoints with South Ossetia and Abkhazia are only open a few days a month and are subject to unexpected and prolonged closures.

Tensions are high in both occupied regions. Unexploded ordnance, explosions and landmines may pose a risk where military operations have occurred, especially in areas along the administrative boundary lines with South Ossetia and Abkhazia and near the border with Azerbaijan (Red Bridge area).

Terrorists have carried out attacks in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. They typically use car bombs to target military and security facilities.

If you choose to travel to South Ossetia or Abkhazia despite this advisory:

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

Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in these areas, due to security concerns and travel restrictions.

Russian border regions

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

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

Kidnapping

Kidnappings have occurred in Abkhazia, South Ossetia and other areas bordering Russia.

If you travel to these areas despite the advisories in effect:

• don’t walk alone, especially after dark
• vary your itinerary
• keep doors and windows locked at all times
• don’t show signs of affluence
• exercise vigilance in crowded places, such as markets and public transportation facilities

Terrorism

There is a low threat of terrorism, but an attack can occur at any time.

Although there have been no recent attacks, there is a terrorist threat due to the return of Georgian fighters from abroad and the use of the country as a transit route between North Caucasus and the Middle East.

Targets could include: 

• government buildings 
• schools 
• places of worship 
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks 
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. 

Be particularly vigilant during: 

• sporting events 
• religious holidays  
• public celebrations  
• major political events, such as elections  

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.  

Demonstrations

Crime

Petty crime

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

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• Keep doors and windows 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 in remote areas and outside of larger cities can be significantly longer.

During your stay:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• avoid travelling alone after dark
• beware of people walking behind you
• avoid inadequately lit and deserted streets

Fraud

ATM and credit card fraud occurs.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards.

• 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
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Romance scams and overcharging

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

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill by the establishment's security guards. 

• Beware of people who show a keen interest 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.

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 been committed, including against foreign women.

If you’re the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy and seek medical assistance. You should also report the incident to Georgian authorities and ensure that local police will file the report with the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia.

During your stay:

• avoid deserted streets at night and isolated areas
• don’t travel by yourself in a taxi, especially at night

Useful links

• Contact information - Prosecutor’s Offices of Georgia 
• Advice for women travellers 

Landmines

Due to previous military operations, landmines and unexploded ordnance may pose a threat to your safety in various areas of Georgia, including:

• near the Red Bridge border crossing with Azerbaijan
• in South Ossetia, Abkhazia 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 tourism

Adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tour operators may not meet international standards.

If you are participating in adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your tour companions  
• 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 includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety  

Road safety

Road conditions

Road conditions vary considerably across the country and fatal accidents are frequent.

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

• unpaved and uneven surfaces
• raised and sunken manholes
• stray livestock
• lack of traffic signs
• insufficient lighting

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

Driving habits

Road accidents are one of the main causes of death in Georgia. It is common for drivers to:

• fail to maintain one lane
• 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 drive in Georgia:

• 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

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.

Public transportation

Taxis

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

Drivers can be reckless and drive at excessive speed.

Ride-sharing apps are 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 
• order your taxi at the reception if you are staying at a hotel
• don’t use unmarked taxis
• never share a taxi with strangers
• negotiate the fare in advance
• have small bills available for payment

Buses and metro

Buses and 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.

• Always carry your valuables and identification with you
• Avoid storing bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
• Don't 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 door locked from the inside

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides 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 use for travel.

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.

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, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

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

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

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

If you are planning to stay in Georgia for more than 365 days, you must obtain a visa before entering the country. If you overstay your visa, you may be fined.

Useful links

• Georgian visa information – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia
• Visa-free countries - State Commission on Migration Issues of Georgia
• Postponing the obligation to leave – State Commission on Migration Issues of Georgia

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 the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. If you enter Georgia via Abkhazia or South Ossetia at an unofficial border crossing, you could face heavy fines and jail sentences.

Yellow fever

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

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

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, like rabies and bird flu (avian influenza), can be spread from animals to humans. Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, 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. 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.

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

Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event 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.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Georgia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Georgia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Georgian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Reforms are underway to improve the efficiency and the transparency of the judicial system, but if you are arrested in Georgia, you could be detained for several months and there could be long delays to resolve your case.

Drugs

In 2017, Georgia decriminalized cannabis and various cannabis-based products for personal use. Production, distribution and sale remain illegal. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Medication

Some prescription medication may not be available in Georgia.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

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 a sufficient supply of your medication
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions along with an English translation
• Declare all medications in your possession to customs officials upon entry
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

If you carry illegal prescription medication according to Georgian Law, you could face deportation and jail sentences.

Contact the nearest diplomatic representation of Georgia for more information on imports of medication.

Useful links

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

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.

Cultural valuables include:

• archeological items
• coins, old inscriptions and seals
• handmade canvas, paintings and drawings
• sculptures
• postal stamps removed from circulation

Cultural valuables – Revenue service of Georgia

Photography

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

You should seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

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

Georgian-Canadian dual citizens 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

You must carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

2SLGBTQI+ persons

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.

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

Surrogacy

In 2023, the government of Georgia proposed a law to prohibit surrogacy arrangements to foreigners.

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.

Same-sex couples may encounter issues when engaging in surrogacy arrangements in Georgia.

The Embassy of Canada to Türkiye in Ankara is unable to provide recommendations on surrogacy arrangements.

Money

The currency of Georgia is the lari (GEL). 

U.S. dollars and euros are widely accepted and exchanged for local currency.

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
• checks
• 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

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

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

Excessive rainfall can hamper overland travel and roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. 

It can disrupt the provision of the following essential services:

• transportation
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care

Seismic activity

Earthquakes

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

Earthquakes - What to Do?