Photo: Zurab Kurtsikidze / EPA
The Georgian authorities have prepared amendments to migration legislation that will make it more difficult for foreign students and spouses of the country’s citizens to obtain a residence permit. At the same time, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will expand its powers to counter illegal migration. This is stated on the Ministry of Internal Affairs website.
🔵 Details . The authorities propose treating sham marriages entered into for the sake of a residence permit or citizenship as a criminal offense. This could carry a penalty of up to two years in prison. Foreigners could also be deported with a ban on re-entering Georgia.
The rules for student residence permits will also become stricter. Only students of accredited educational institutions will be eligible to receive them. The document may be revoked for violating academic requirements, failing to comply with employment conditions, or prolonged absence from the country. Admission to Georgian universities will require a language certificate or an exam in a foreign or the state language.
In addition, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will receive the right to conduct operational-search measures to combat illegal migration. Court procedures in migration cases are planned to be accelerated by shortening the time limits for appeals and case consideration, and by reviewing some cases without an oral hearing.
🔵 Statistics . According to the authorities’ estimates, more than 20,000 illegal migrants remain in the country. In 2024, about 250,000 foreigners permanently lived in Georgia, accounting for 6.6% of the population.
🔵 Context . Earlier, Georgia adopted a law requiring foreigners to undergo a special procedure to obtain a work permit. Strict deadlines were also established for the registration of foreign entrepreneurs.