Georgia has introduced a mandatory travel insurance requirement for all foreign nationals entering the country. The law took effect January 1, 2026, and requires proof of health and accident insurance coverage. Below: who it applies to, how to comply, and what happens if you don't.
Who Does This Apply To?
The new insurance requirement applies to:
- All foreign nationals entering Georgia
- Tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers
- NGO staff and contractors on assignment
- Long-term expats re-entering the country
Insurance Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum Coverage | 30,000 GEL (~$11,000 USD) |
| Coverage Type | Health and accident insurance |
| Proof Required | Printed or digital policy in English or Georgian |
| Penalty for Non-Compliance | Fines starting at 300 GEL (~$110 USD) |
⚠️ Credit Card Insurance May Not Qualify
Many credit cards offer travel insurance, but this coverage may not meet Georgia's requirements unless it explicitly states the coverage amount and is available in a printable format. Verify with your card issuer before relying on this coverage.
How to Comply
Option 1: Purchase Travel Insurance Before Arrival
Buy a travel insurance policy before entering Georgia. Most major travel insurance providers offer policies that meet these requirements. Confirm your policy document:
- States the coverage amount (minimum 30,000 GEL / $11,000 USD)
- Covers the duration of your stay
- Is available in English or Georgian
- Can be printed or displayed digitally
Option 2: Employer/Organizational Coverage
For NGO staff and business travelers, your organization may already have group travel insurance. Contact your HR or security department to obtain proof of coverage that meets Georgian requirements.
💡 For NGO Operations Teams
Update your pre-deployment checklists to include Georgia insurance verification. Ensure all traveling staff have printed proof of coverage before departure. Consider adding this to your Duty of Care documentation.
What Happens If You Don't Have Insurance?
If you cannot provide proof of qualifying insurance upon entry:
- Initial fine: Starting at 300 GEL (~$110 USD)
- Potential denial of entry: In some cases, travelers may be refused entry
- Required to purchase on-site: You may be required to purchase insurance at the border
Other New Georgia Laws for 2026
Georgia also updated residency requirements and business registration procedures in January 2026. Organizations with staff in-country should review the full list of regulatory changes to avoid compliance gaps.
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Request a Free Sample Report →Key Takeaways
- Mandatory insurance now required for all foreign visitors to Georgia
- Minimum coverage: 30,000 GEL (~$11,000 USD)
- Must have printable proof in English or Georgian
- Credit card insurance may not qualify - verify before travel
- Update your pre-travel checklists and Duty of Care procedures