Georgia is set to introduce sweeping restrictions on foreign employment, with a full ban on non-citizens working in several professions from March 1, 2026, under a new government decree.

All foreign nationals will be required to obtain a special work permit in order to be employed in Georgia, with the permit serving as the basis for a work-related residence permit, The Caspian Post reports via Georgian media.

From that date, foreigners will be completely barred from working in courier services, passenger transportation-including taxis-and as tourist guides. The restrictions apply not only to salaried jobs but also to entrepreneurial activity in these sectors. In addition, the number of foreign guides, including ski guides, will be capped at just 200 people in 2026.

For other sectors, Georgian employers must first prove that no suitable local candidates are available. At least 10 working days before applying to hire a foreign worker, employers are required to post vacancy details on the state labor market platform. Only if no qualified local candidates are found can an application for a foreign worker proceed.

Violations of the new rules will carry significant financial penalties. Hiring a foreign worker without a permit will result in a fine of 2,000 lari (about $740) per worker for employers, while self-employed foreigners working without authorization will face the same fine. Repeat offenses will be punished with doubled or tripled penalties.