All about Post-Study Work Permit in Georgia

In recent years, Georgia has emerged as a magnet for international students seeking quality education and abundant employment prospects. Georgia has attracted a significant number of international students due to its quality education, relatively low cost of living, and ease of admission compared to universities in the US, UK, or Canada. The country’s educational institutions are internationally accredited, offering students the opportunity to build networks and shape their careers. Additionally, the cost of living in Georgia is far less than in other European countries, making it an affordable option for students. Notably, a growing trend among these international students is their preference to remain in Georgia post-graduation to gain valuable work experience in their respective fields. According to recent figures and statistics, the number of international students staying in Georgia after completing their studies has been steadily increasing. This trend can be attributed to the relative ease in obtaining a residence permit to pursue meaningful employment, which plays a pivotal role in enabling students to transition from academia to the professional world seamlessly. Once a student obtains a temporary residence permit, it becomes easier to stay for a longer period in Georgia, easing economic worries. The residence permit enables students to stay back in the country and gain meaningful experience in their field. This policy has been instrumental in attracting and retaining international students in Georgia, as well as facilitating the integration of international students into the local workforce and contributing to their overall career development. In this article, we will explore the benefits, requirements, and impact of the post-study work permit in Georgia, along with other important details.

Post-Study Work Permit in Georgia: Highlights 

What is a Post-study Work Permit in Georgia? 

Georgia doesn’t explicitly issue a post-study work visa for students. Instead, students have to apply for a temporary residence permit, under a long-term visa, immediately after the expiration of their stay under their study residence permit. In Georgia, international students who wish to remain in the country after completing their studies must navigate a process that involves transitioning from a study residence permit to a temporary residence permit, and subsequently to a work residence permit if they secure employment. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

Study Residence Permit (D3 Visa)

• International students must first obtain a D3 visa to study in Georgia.
• This visa is typically issued for 90 days and serves as a precondition for obtaining a study residence permit.

Temporary Residence Permit (TRC)

• After their studies, students must apply for a TRC immediately following the expiration of their study residence permit.
• The TRC is usually granted for one year.
• Students should apply for the TRC at the Public Service Hall.

Employment and Work Residence Permit

• During the validity of the TRC, students can sign an employment contract with an employer.
• This employment allows them to apply for a work residence permit.
• The initial work residence permit is issued for a period of 6 to 12 months.
• Subsequently, it can be renewed for up to 11 years, depending on the circumstances.

The work residence permit can be renewed, and the duration of the subsequent permits may vary. For renewal, evidence of continued employment and financial stability will be required. 

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Post-Study Work Visa in Georgia: Eligibility

To be eligible for a work residence permit in Georgia, you must meet the following criteria:

• Employment Contract: You need to have an employment contract or certificate with at least 6 months remaining.
• Registration: If employed, you should be registered in the unified database of the Ministry of Labor, Health and Social Defence of Georgia.
• Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of the residence permit is required.
• Business Turnover: For entrepreneurs, the turnover of the sponsoring LLC or IE should exceed 50,000 GEL for each foreigner involved in the business.

The work residence permit is initially issued for a period of 6 to 12 months and can be extended for up to 11 years. However, the total validity period cannot exceed 12 years. After 10 years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residency. Applications must be made from within Georgia, and renewals can be done online if the existing permit is valid at the time of application. 

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Post-Study Work Visa in Georgia: Application Process

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to applying for a work residence permit in Georgia:

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for a work residence permit. This is typically issued to individuals coming to Georgia for entrepreneurial or labor activities, as well as freelancers.
2. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents. These may include your passport, proof of employment or business activities in Georgia, and any other documents required by the Georgian authorities.
3. Application Submission: Submit your application either personally or through an authorized representative at any territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency, a branch of the Public Service Hall, or a Community Centre. Alternatively, you can apply online via the Public Service Development Agency’s distance service.
4. Application in Georgian: Note that the application and enclosed documents must be submitted in Georgian. However, applications completed in English and/or Russian may also be processed. If your passport contains personal data in Latin transliteration, it may be submitted without a Georgian translation.
5. Payment of Fees: Pay the necessary fees for the application process. You will receive a receipt as proof of payment.
6. Interview: You may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information if requested by the Georgian authorities.
7. Application Review: Wait for the decision on your application. The processing time can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance of when you need the permit.
8. Residence Permit Approval: If your application is successful, you will be granted a work residence permit, which authorizes you to enter, stay, and work in Georgia for the duration of its validity

In Georgia, the cost of obtaining a work residence permit varies depending on the processing time chosen. The standard application fee is 410 GEL, with a processing time of 30 calendar days. For expedited processing, fees increase to 1030 GEL for a 20-day turnaround. It’s important to verify these details with the Public Service development agency, as they are subject to change.

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Documents Required 

To obtain a work residence permit in Georgia, you will need to prepare several documents. Here’s a detailed list of the required documents:

• Application Form: You must submit a completed application form. This can be done electronically or at a Service Development Agency of Georgia (the Agency).
• Travel Document: A copy of your valid travel document (e.g., passport) is required.
• Legal Stay Documentation: A copy of a document certifying your legal stay in Georgia, such as a Georgian visa or an entry stamp in your passport, is necessary.
• Employment Contract: If you are employed, you’ll need to present a valid work contract with at least 6 months remaining. For entrepreneurs, evidence of business activities in Georgia is required.
• Financial Proof: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of the residence permit is needed.
• Company Turnover Statement: If you are associated with a business, a statement of the company’s turnover from the tax office may be required.
• Notarized Translation: A notarized translation into the Georgian language of your ID and possibly other documents.
• Salary Statement: An official salary statement issued by your employer might be requested.

Remember, all documents submitted must be in Georgian, or in English/Russian where permitted, and personal data in passports must be in Latin transliteration

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the post-study work visa permit in Georgia present a nuanced landscape that demands thorough attention and strategic foresight. The process, while intricate, necessitates meticulous planning and a diligent approach from students aspiring to pursue employment opportunities post-education. It is essential to note that the scope of these options is somewhat restricted, placing emphasis on the need for students to secure employment within a defined timeframe to qualify for a work residence permit. This underscores the importance of proactive job hunting tailored to align with individual skills and qualifications, ensuring a smoother transition from student to professional life in Georgia. For more information about the same, contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!