Citizenship means legal bond between a person and the state, which grants the citizen social, economic and political rights.
Acquiring Georgian citizenship
Georgian citizenship is acquired:
1. By birth;
2. By naturalization.
Georgian citizenship shall be acquired by birth by:
1. A person, at whose birth one of his/her parents is a Georgian citizen;
2. A person born on the territory of Georgia through extracorporeal fertilization (surrogacy), if the country of citizenship of neither of his/her parents recognizes this person as its citizen;
3. A child born in the territory of Georgia to stateless persons holding a status of stateless person in Georgia;
4. A person born on the territory of Georgia, one of whose parents is a stateless person holding a status of stateless person in Georgia and the other parent is unknown.
In what case is it requisite to establish the legal bond with Georgia?
A person’s legal bond with Georgia is established, if the person’s Georgian citizenship cannot be determined by the documents presented by the person (for instance, when obtaining identity card for the first time) and the documents obtained by the Ministry of Justice.
Requirements for establishing the legal bond with Georgia
The following individuals, except for persons who have acquired Georgian citizenship in accordance with the Law, or who will acquire Georgian citizenship in accordance with the Law shall be deemed Georgian citizens:
a) A person born before 31 March 1975, who has resided in Georgia for a combined period of at least five years, stayed on the territory of Georgia by 31 March 1993 and has not acquired foreign citizenship;
b) A person born after 31 March 1975, who resided in Georgia by 31 March 1993 and has not acquired foreign citizenship;
c) A person born on the territory of Georgia, who left the territory of Georgia after 21 December 1991, thus failing to meet the requirements of subparagraphs (a) and (b) of this article, and who has not acquired foreign citizenship.
Application for establishing the legal bond with Georgia shall be filed as follows:
For establishing the legal bond with Georgia, a person shall apply to the territorial offices of the Public Service Development Agency and the branches of the Public Service Hall
If a person is outside Georgia – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
The aforementioned service may also be obtained remotely, through the Distance Service Unit of PSDA.
Documents required for reviewing the application:
a) An application form filled in a prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
The documents required to establish the legal bond with Georgia, in accordance with paragraph “a”:
1. A document proving that the person has resided in Georgia for a combined period of at least five years (copy of passport, military card, employment record book or a reference from workplace and/or other document proving the legal fact);
2. A document proving that the person was residing in Georgia by 31 March 1993 (copy of passport, military card, employment record book or a reference from workplace and/or other document proving the legal fact).
The documents required to establish the legal bond with Georgia, in accordance with paragraph “b”:
1. Copy of the document proving birth (birth certificate, identity card of the Georgian citizen, passport, parents’ passport data);
2. Copies of the documents proving that the person was residing in Georgia by 31 March 1993.
The documents required to establish the legal bond with Georgia, in accordance with paragraph “c”:
1. Copy of the document proving birth in Georgia (birth certificate, identity card of the Georgian citizen, passport, parents’ passport data);
2. Copies of the documents proving the fact that the person left the territory of Georgia after 21 December 1991 (passport, military card, employment record book and/or other document proving the legal fact).
Note: If there are grounds for acquiring citizenship of another country, the applicant shall submit a certificate confirming that the person is not a citizen of the relevant country issued by the competent authorities of that country. This requirement is not mandatory with regard to the countries that do not issue such certificates, however, if the fact that the person is citizen of another country is revealed, the person shall lose Georgian citizenship.
The aforementioned documents shall be submitted in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation. The issue of citizenship of a minor or a legally incompetent person shall be reviewed based on the application of their legal representative only.
Service term and fee
On the 15th day – free of charge
On the 5th day – GEL 40
On the 3rd day – GEL 60
On the same day – GEL 100
Form of establishing the legal bond with Georgia
Can a person file an application for acquiring Georgian citizenship by naturalization, in case of refusal to establish the legal bond with Georgia?
An application can be filed for acquiring Georgian citizenship by naturalization, in case of refusal to establish the legal bond with Georgia.
Citizenship tests
The level of knowledge of the state language of Georgia, the history of Georgia and the principles of law is examined before submitting the application for granting Georgian citizenship.
The result of the test of knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia enables a person to apply for granting Georgian citizenship at the Agency or Public Service Hall or a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
The test result is valid for 1 year.
In case of granting Georgian citizenship under regular procedure, granting Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure, granting Georgian citizenship by way of exception and granting Georgian citizenship under special procedure, an applicant’s level of knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia is checked and in case of granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration (except when the person’s Georgian citizenship was terminated unlawfully), as well as in case of exercising the temporary right to apply for restoration of Georgian citizenship – the level of knowledge of the official language.
A person’s level of knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia is checked by the Agency.
The testing is conducted electronically via special software. The applicant shall apply for registration for the test to the Agency, Public Service Hall or a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad personally or through a representative.
For the registration for the test an applicant shall submit:
a) An identity document;
b) A color photo (3.5X4.5 cm, electronically);
c) In case of registration for the test through a representative – a proof of representative authority.
Test service fee
The exam is conducted free of charge for the first time and the fee for the second and each subsequent test is GEL 40.
A person in need of exemption from the citizenship exam applicable since 1 May 2024 shall file an application to the Commission on Citizenship Issues and submit a proof of the grounds for the exemption (a certificate issued by a medical institution/doctor’s conclusion and/or other documents proving that the person has severe physical, psychological, intellectual and/or sensory impairment that makes it impossible to check their knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia).
Granting Georgian citizenship under regular procedure
Requirements for granting Georgian citizenship under regular procedure
An adult who has lawfully resided in Georgia for the last 10 consecutive years up to the day of applying for Georgian citizenship (a stateless person having a status in Georgia – for the last 5 years) and have successfully completed the test in the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia.
They have a job and/or real estate in Georgia, or carry out business activity on the territory of Georgia or hold an interest or shares in a Georgian enterprise.
A person’s level of knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia is checked by the Agency.
Application for granting Georgian citizenship under regular procedure shall be filed as follows:
An applicant shall apply to the territorial offices of the Public Service Development Agency and the Public Service Hall branches for the review of the application for granting Georgian citizenship under regular procedure.
If an applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
1. Copy of birth certificate (if you were born abroad and have the aforementioned document);
2. A document proving that you have lawfully resided in Georgia for the last 10 consecutive years (Georgian visa, residence permit or card, date stamp proving crossing of the state border of Georgia);
3. A document proving that you have a job and/or real estate in Georgia, or carry out business activity on the territory of Georgia or hold an interest or shares in a Georgian enterprise.
A stateless person holding a status in Georgia applying for Georgian citizenship under regular procedure shall submit the following documents to the competent authority:
1. Copy of birth certificate (if an applicant for Georgian citizenship under regular procedure was born abroad and holds the aforementioned document);
2. A document proving lawful residence in Georgia for the last 5 consecutive years (visa, residence permit or card, date stamp proving crossing of the state border of Georgia);
3. A document proving that they have a job and/or real estate in Georgia, or carry out business activity on the territory of Georgia or hold an interest or shares in a Georgian enterprise.
A minor who has not acquired Georgian citizenship by birth shall be granted Georgian citizenship under regular procedure, if one of their parents is a Georgian citizen.
Documents requisite for reviewing the application:
1. A document proving the parent’s Georgian citizenship;
2. Copy of birth certificate, if the minor was born abroad.
A minor born on the territory of Georgia who has a refugee status or is a stateless person having a status in Georgia and has been living in Georgia for 5 years, shall be granted Georgian citizenship under regular procedure.
Documents requisite for reviewing the application:
1. A document proving lawful residence in Georgia for 5 years;
2. A document proving the minor’s refugee status or a stateless person having a status in Georgia;
3. A document proving registration of an application for establishing the refugee status;
4. Copy of birth certificate, if the minor was born abroad.
A minor shall be granted Georgian citizenship under regular procedure, if he/she is adopted by a Georgian citizen.
Documents requisite for reviewing the application:
1. A document proving an adoptive parent’s Georgian citizenship;
2. An interested person’s adoption document;
3. Copy of birth certificate, if the minor was born abroad.
Citizenship issue of a minor or a beneficiary of support shall be reviewed based on their legal representative’s application.
A written consent of a minor and the other parent (if any) shall be attached to the application of a legal representative for reviewing citizenship issue of a minor from 14 to 18 years of age. A minor is not required to submit a written consent, if they are a beneficiary of support at the same time.
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 65
On the 60th day – GEL 130
On the 40th day – GEL 260
On the 20th day – GEL 390
Form of granting Georgian Citizenship under regular procedure
Granting Georgian citizenship under regular procedure on the 80th day is free of charge for stateless persons having a status of a stateless person in Georgia.
The total term of acquiring Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months.
Granting Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure
Requirements for granting Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure
A person who is married to a Georgian citizen and who has continuously lawfully resided in Georgia for the last 5 years up to the day of applying for Georgian citizenship, shall acquire Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure, if they have successfully completed the test in the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia.
A person’s level of knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia is checked by the Agency.
Application for granting Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure shall be filed as follows:
An interested person shall apply to the Agency or Public Service Hall for review of the application for granting Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure.
If an interested person is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
1. Copy of birth certificate (if the applicant for citizenship was born abroad and has the aforementioned document);
2. Copy of a document proving marriage with a Georgian citizen (marriage certificate or a court decision on establishing the relevant fact);
3. Copy of a document proving the spouse’s citizenship;
4. A document proving lawful residence in Georgia for the last 5 consecutive years (visa, residence permit or card, date stamp proving crossing of the state border of Georgia);
5. A document proving citizenship of another country (identity card, passport or a citizenship document issued by a competent authority of other country).
The application and the aforementioned documents shall be submitted in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation.
A written application and requisite documents may be submitted personally or through an agent under power of attorney.
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 65
On the 60th day – GEL 130
On the 40th day – GEL 260
On the 20th day – GEL 390
Form of Granting Georgian citizenship under simplified procedure
The term of review and decision making with regard to acquiring Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months
Granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration
Georgian citizenship by way of restoration is granted in the following cases:
Georgian citizenship may be granted to a person whose citizenship has been terminated:
• By renunciation of Georgian citizenship;
• Unlawfully;
• As a result of the choice of their parents.
An applicant for Georgian citizenship by way of restoration shall have successfully completed the test in the official language (the test is not applicable in case of granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration on the grounds of termination of the citizenship unlawfully).
A person’s level of knowledge of the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia is checked by the Agency.
Application for granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration shall be filed as follows:
An applicant for Georgian citizenship by way of restoration shall apply to the Public Service Hall branch or a territorial office of the Agency.
If the applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
Copies of the documents confirming that the person was considered Georgian citizen in accordance with the law:
1. A document proving that Georgian citizenship was unlawfully terminated;
2. A document proving renunciation of Georgian citizenship;
3. A document proving the choice of the parents;
4. If an applicant for Georgian citizenship by way of restoration is a citizen of a foreign country, a document proving their citizenship shall also be submitted at the Agency;
5. Documents proving the grounds for granting by way of restoration.
Georgian citizenship may be granted to a person by way of restoration on the grounds of termination of Georgian citizenship as a result of the parent’s/parents’ choice upon reaching the age of majority.
Citizenship issue of a minor or a beneficiary of support shall be reviewed based on their legal representative’s application.
A written consent of a minor and the other parent (if any) shall be attached to the application of a legal representative for reviewing citizenship issue of a minor from 14 to 18 years of age. A minor is not required to submit a written consent, if they are a beneficiary of support at the same time.
The application and the aforementioned documents shall be submitted by an interested person in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation.
A written application for restoration of the citizenship and requisite documents may be submitted by an interested person personally or through an agent under power of attorney.
Service term and fee
On the 30th day – GEL 130
On the 20th day – GEL 195
The term of review and decision making with regard to the issue of Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months.
Form of restoration of Georgian citizenship
Granting Georgian citizenship by way of exception
In accordance with Article 17 of the Organic Law of Georgia “On Georgian Citizenship”, the President of Georgia may grant Georgian citizenship by way of exception to a citizen of another country who has made a contribution of exceptional merit to Georgia. The President of Georgia may also grant Georgian citizenship by way of exception to an alien based on state interests.
When evaluating the state interests, inter alia, the following circumstances shall be taken into account:
a) A foreign citizen considers Georgia to be his/her homeland, and he/she or his/her ancestor is:
a.a) A person residing on an occupied territory of Georgia or is internally displaced from the territory;
a.b) A person emigrated in different times for political opinions or for hard social and economic conditions;
b) A foreign citizen is making such an investment in Georgia or he/she has made such an investment in Georgia that contributes or has contributed substantially to the development of the state economy;
c) A foreign citizen is successful in sport, science and/or art, and he/she is willing to carry out his/her activity on behalf of Georgia.
For granting Georgian citizenship by way of exception, a person under subparagraph “a” shall have successfully completed the test in the official language, history and basic principles of law.
A person who has such a physical, psychological, intellectual and/or sensory disorder that makes it impossible to check whether he/she meets the requirement of the above subparagraphs, may be exempt from the knowledge test by the Commission on Citizenship Issues.
Application for granting Georgian citizenship by way of exception shall be filed as follows:
An applicant for Georgian citizenship by way of exceptionshall apply to the Public Service Hall branch or a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency.
If the applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
The aforementioned service may also be received through remote service.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
1. Copy of birth certificate (if an applicant for Georgian citizenship was born abroad and holds the aforementioned document) and in case of granting Georgian citizenship to a minor – copy of their birth certificate and a written consent of their legal representative;
2. Passport of other document proving citizenship and identity;
3. At least 2 recommendations of a Georgian citizen or a legal entity registered in Georgia on granting Georgian citizenship to a citizen of another country;
4. Documents proving the circumstances provided for by subparagraphs “b” and “c” of Article 17 of the Law.
Citizenship issue of a minor or a beneficiary of support shall be reviewed based on their legal representative’s application.
A written consent of a minor and the other parent (if any) shall be attached to the application of a legal representative for reviewing citizenship issue of a minor from 14 to 18 years of age. A minor is not required to submit a written consent, if they are a beneficiary of support at the same time.
The documents shall be submitted by an interested person in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation.
A written application for granting citizenship by way of exceptionand requisite documents may be submitted by an interested person personally or through an agent under power of attorney.
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 500
On the 60th day – GEL 700
On the 30th day – GEL 1 000
The term of review and decision making with regard to the issue of Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months.
Form of Granting Citizenship by way of Exception
Granting Georgian citizenship under special procedure
A person born on the territory of Georgia before 31 March 1993 whose Georgian citizenship cannot be determined has the right to acquire Georgian citizenship under special procedure, if they know the official language, history of Georgia and basic principles of law within the established limits.
To be granted Georgian citizenship under special procedure a person shall have successfully completed the test in the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia.
A person who has such a physical, psychological, intellectual and/or sensory disorder that makes it impossible to check whether he/she meets the requirement of the above subparagraphs, may be exempt from the knowledge test by the Commission on Citizenship Issues.
Application for granting Georgian citizenship under special procedure shall be filed as follows:
An applicant for Georgian citizenship under special procedureshall apply to the Public Service Hall branch or a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency.
If the applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
1. Copy of birth certificate, if it is not available in the unified registry of the Agency;
2. Copy of an identity document (copy of identity/residence card, passport, military card, employment record book or a reference from workplace and/or other document proving the legal fact).
The application for acquisition of citizenship and requisite documents may be submitted by an interested person personally or through an agent under power of attorney.
The application and requisite shall be submitted by an interested person in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation.
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 65
On the 60th day – GEL 130
On the 40th day – GEL 260
On the 20th day – GEL 390
The term of review and decision making with regard to the issue of Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months.
Form of granting Georgian citizenship under special procedure
Loss of Georgian citizenship
Renunciation of Georgian citizenship
A Georgian citizen may renounce Georgian citizenship.
A person may get refusal to renounce Georgian citizenship, if he/she has not fulfilled duties owed to the state or has not fulfilled military duties. A man aged from 18 to 27 is subject to military duties. This rule does not apply, if the military duties of a person are deferred until the age of 27 under the law or the person is released from military duties. An interested person shall also get refusal to renounce Georgian citizenship, if he/she is accused of a crime provided for by the Criminal Code of Georgia or there is a legal valid court sentence with respect to him/her, which is yet to be executed.
A decree of the President of Georgia on Georgian citizen’s renunciation of Georgian citizenship shall take effect:
a) Upon receipt by competent Georgian authorities of the documents confirming that the person has been granted foreign citizenship;
b) On the 15th day of signing of the decree, if the person has submitted a document issued by a competent authority of a foreign country confirming that the person will definitely be granted the citizenship of that country if he/she renounces Georgian citizenship.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) The service payment receipt.
Also requisite:
a) Copy of a document proving Georgian citizenship (identity card of a Georgian citizen, passport of a Georgian citizen, former USSR passport, document proving registration);
b) In case of a person aged from 18 to 27 – copy of a military card or a certificate of deferment from conscription into military service, release from conscription into military service or military duties;
c) In case of a minor renouncing Georgian citizenship – copy of their birth certificate, as well as a written consent of their legal representative.
Service term and fee
On the 30th day – GEL 130
On the 20th day – GEL 260
On the 10th day – GEL 390
The relevant application form shall be completed and materially submitted with the aforementioned documents.
Form of renunciation of Georgian citizenship
An applicant for renunciation of Georgian citizenship shall apply to any territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency or the Public Service Hall branch.
If the applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad or use remote service.
Note: A notarized consent of a person from 14 to 18 years of age or a written consent expressed before an authorized official of the authority receiving the application shall be attached to the application of a legal representative for reviewing citizenship issue of a minor from 14 to 18 years of age.
A notarized consent of the other parent or a written consent expressed before an authorized official of the authority receiving the application shall be attached to the application of one of the parents for reviewing citizenship issue of a person up to 18 years of age.
Establishment of the status of stateless person
The status shall be granted to a person whose Georgian citizenship cannot be determined and who is not deemed by any state to be its citizen under its legislation.
Procedure
For determination of the status, a person concerned shall apply to any territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency or the Public Service Hall branch.
Any person staying in Georgia, whether lawfully or unlawfully, may request determination of the status.
A person having attained the age of 18 may apply for the status determination. Matters related to persons under age of 18 shall be reviewed based on the application of their legal representative.
When applying for the status determination, the status seeker shall be informed of the applicant’s rights and duties in an administrative proceeding, as well as of the legal implications of the decision on determining the status.
The Agency shall be authorized to invite the status seeker for an interview for establishment of the identity of the status seeker.
Communication with an applicant shall be carried out by publishing a relevant notice on the website of the Agency. An applicant may indicate an additional form of communication with the Agency in his/her application: e-mail or official communication of the relevant notice/decision (delivery or sending by post within the territory of Georgia).
Note:
Residence permit of a stateless person is issued for the term of 3 years.
Permanent residence permit shall be issued to a stateless person whose Georgian citizenship was terminated by reason of renunciation of Georgian citizenship, or who permanently resided in Georgia by 31 March 1993, was not deemed Georgian citizen and has not been removed from permanent registration in Georgia after 31 March 1993.
Documents to be submitted:
1. Application;
2. 2 photos, size 3X4;
3. Identity document or a travel document issued by a foreign country (or any other document enabling confirmation of the fact that the status seeker is stateless).
Note: If the documents to be submitted are not available, the reason for unavailability of the documents shall be indicated in the application.
Documents to be submitted by an authorized person filing an application:
• A document proving the authority;
• The following main data of a status seeker shall be indicated in the application:
1. Identification data (given name, surname, and in case of change – given name and surname prior to the change as well, previous citizenship, sex, place and date of birth, mother’s surname prior and subsequent to marriage);
2. Details of an identity document or a travel document issued by a foreign country (document type and number, date of expiry, place and date of issue, issuing authority);
3. Marital status, date of marriage, children’s citizenship and place of birth, spouse’s (former spouse’s) given name, surname and citizenship;
4. Countries of residence and the period of residing in these countries;
5. Education;
6. Workplace;
7. Actual residential address.
Note: A status seeker shall be obliged to notify the Agency, in case of change of a place of residence in Georgia.
Note: The application for determination of the status shall be reviewed and decision shall be made within 6 months after receipt of the application. To obtain the documents/information necessary to establish circumstances essential for reviewing and decision making on the status determination, the Agency may extend the application review period by a maximum of 3 months.
The service within the term of 6 months is free of charge.
Temporary right to apply for restoration of Georgian citizenship
In what case may the temporary right to apply for restoration of Georgian citizenship be exercised?
A former Georgian citizen who has lost Georgian citizenship due to acquiring foreign citizenship, may, before 31 December 2024, apply to the Agency for granting Georgian citizenship to them by way of its restoration, under the conditions defined by this article.
Georgian citizenship by way of restoration shall be granted to a person, if he/she meets the following requirements:
a) He/she has knowledge of the official language of Georgia within the set limits;
b) There are no grounds provided for by Article 16 of this Law.
In case of granting Georgian citizenship to a personby way of restoration, Georgian citizenship shall also be granted to his/her minor child. A person who has reached 14 years of age shall be granted Georgian citizenship on the basis of this article with his/her consent.
A person concerned shall have successfully completed the test in the official language, history and basic principles of law of Georgia for exercising of the temporary right to apply for Georgian citizenship by way of restoration.
A person who has such a physical, psychological, intellectual and/or sensory disorder that makes it impossible to check whether he/she meets the requirement of the above subparagraphs, may be exempt from the knowledge test by the Commission on Citizenship Issues.
Application for granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration shall be filed as follows:
An applicant for granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration shall apply to the Public Service Hall branch or a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency.
If the applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad or use remote service.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia).
Also requisite:
a) Copies of the documents proving that the person concerned held Georgian citizenship in accordance with the law;
b) A document proving citizenship of another country;
c) A document proving the loss of Georgian citizenship.
The following documents shall be submitted for review of the issue of the temporary right to apply for granting Georgian citizenship by way of restoration to a minor:
a) Birth certificate;
b) Copies of the documents proving that the minor held Georgian citizenship in accordance with the law;
c) A document proving restoration of Georgian citizenship to the minor’s parent in accordance with paragraph one of this article;
d) A document proving citizenship of another country;
e) A document proving the loss of Georgian citizenship;
f) Consent of a parent;
g) In case of a minor of 14 years of age – their consent as well.
Citizenship issue of a minor or a beneficiary of support shall be reviewed based on their legal representative’s application.
A written consent of a minor and the other parent (if any) shall be attached to the application of a legal representative for reviewing citizenship issue of a minor from 14 to 18 years of age. A minor is not required to submit a written consent, if they are a beneficiary of support at the same time.
The application and the aforementioned documents shall be submitted in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation.
A written application and requisite documents may be submitted personally or through an agent under power of attorney.
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 325
On the 60th day – GEL 455
On the 30th day – GEL 650
The term of review and decision making with regard to the issue of Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months.
Form of temporary procedure of restoration of Georgian citizenship
Retaining Georgian citizenship in case of acquiring foreign citizenship.
In what case may a person exercise the right of retaining Georgian citizenship?
Georgian citizenship shall be retained by a person, in case of acquiring foreign citizenship, if he/she obtains consent from the Georgian state to retention of Georgian citizenship before he/she acquires citizenship of another country.
The consent to retention of Georgian citizenship shall be granted in case of acquiring foreign citizenship, if the connection of a citizen of Georgia with Georgia is deemed reliable.
A minor, who, along with Georgian citizenship, has acquired foreign citizenship by birth, shall retain Georgian citizenship from his/her birth until reaching 18 years of age. If an application for retaining citizenship of the minor is not submitted within this period, his/her Georgian citizenship shall be terminated. Georgian citizenship of a minor may be retained on the basis of an application of parents or a legal representative. If the application is submitted by either of the parents, Georgian citizenship of a minor may be retained with the consent of the other parent.
Application for retention of Georgian citizenship shall be filed as follows:
An applicant for retention of Georgian citizenship shall apply to the Public Service Hall branch or a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency.
If the applicant is outside Georgia, they may apply to the relevant diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
The aforementioned service may also be received through remote service.
Requisite documents:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia).
An applicant shall additionally submit the following documents at the competent authority for review of the issue of obtaining consent to retention of Georgian citizenship:
a) A document proving that proceedings are conducted for acquisition of citizenship of other country;
b) Identity document.
The following documents shall be submitted at the competent authority for review of the issue of retention of Georgian citizenship of a minor:
a) A document proving acquisition of citizenship of other country by a minor;
b) Birth certificate;
c) Consent of 14 years old minor;
d) Consent of the parent.
If an application for retention of Georgian citizenship of a minor is filed by one of the parents, Georgian citizenship of the minor may be retained by consent of the other parent.
Citizenship issue of a minor or a beneficiary of support shall be reviewed based on their legal representative’s application.
A written consent of a minor and the other parent (if any) shall be attached to the application of a legal representative for citizenship issue of a minor from 14 to 18 years of age. A minor is not required to submit a written consent, if they are a beneficiary of support at the same time.
The application and the aforementioned documents shall be submitted in Georgian. Documents drawn up in another language shall be accepted only with duly certified Georgian translation.
A written application for restoration of Citizenship and requisite documents may be submitted personally or through an agent under power of attorney.
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 500
On the 60th day – GEL 700
On the 30th day – GEL 1 000
The term of review and decision making with regard to the issue of Georgian citizenship shall not exceed 3 months.
Form of retention of Georgian citizenship
Granting the status of compatriot residing abroad
The status of a compatriot residing abroad shall be obtained by an adult in accordance with the Law, who meets the following requirements:
a) Is a Georgian citizen and who has been living in another state for a long time;
b) Is a citizen of another country, who has a Georgian origin and/or whose native language belongs to the group of the Georgian-Caucasian languages.
In addition to an application, an applicant for the status of a compatriot residing abroad shall submit:
a) 2 photos, size 3X4;
b) A passport or other document confirming his/her citizenship and identity;
c) A cover letter;
d) A document certifying the payment of fees for services rendered by the Agency
Service term and fee
On the 80th day – GEL 65
On the 70th day – GEL 130
Compatriot application form
If necessary, the following documents may be appended to the application:
a) Birth certificate of an applicant for the status of a compatriot residing abroad or a document that substitutes the birth certificate;
b) A reference-recommendation made by a social organization of which the applicant for the status of a compatriot residing abroad is a member;
c) Also, a document or evidence verifying the Georgian origin of the applicant for the status of a compatriot residing abroad, and the attribution of his/her native language to the group of the Georgian-Caucasian languages.
A person shall apply to the Public Service Hall or a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency for establishing the status of compatriot and if the person is outside Georgia – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad.
The aforementioned service may also be received through remote service.
Establishment of Georgian citizenship for persons residing in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia and on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia)
An application for establishment of Georgian citizenship for the persons living in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia and on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia) as provided for by Article 301 of the Organic Law of Georgia “On Georgian Citizenship” shall be reviewed and decision made with regard to persons whose identity is established or whose legal bond with Georgia is determined based on an act/document issued by illegal authorities (officials) on the occupied territories, in accordance with paragraph 2 of Article 8 of the Law of Georgia “On Occupied Territories”.
In what case is establishment of legal bond with Georgia requisite?
If the person’s Georgian citizenship cannot be determined by the documents produced by the person (for instance, when obtaining identity card for the first time) and the documents obtained by the Ministry of Justice.
Requirements for establishing the legal bond with Georgia:
The following individuals, except for persons who have acquired or will acquire Georgian citizenship in accordance with the Organic Law of Georgia “On Georgian Citizenship”, shall be deemed Georgian citizens:
a) A person born in Georgia before 21 December 1991, who resided in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia or on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia) before 21 December 1991, has not acquired foreign citizenship and no circumstance under Article 16 of this Law applies to him/her;
b) A child of a person who was born in Georgia before 21 December 1991 and resided in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia or on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia) before 21 December 1991, who has not acquired foreign citizenship and no circumstance under Article 16 of this Law applies to him/her.
Application for establishing the legal bond with Georgia shall be filed as follows:
For establishing the legal bond with Georgia a person concerned shall apply to a territorial office of the Public Service Development Agency, Public Service Hall branch or a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad
The application for establishment of Georgian citizenship shall be filed by an adult, legally capable person residing in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia or on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia) personally and/or through a representative. At the discretion of the applicant, the application may filed through an international organization operating in Georgia.
Documents required for reviewing the application:
a) An application form filled in prescribed manner;
b) 3X4 color photo (the applicant shall submit the photo to the Agency or its territorial office electronically and materially or electronically – to a diplomatic mission or consular office of Georgia abroad, if the applicant is outside Georgia);
c) A document confirming payment of the expedited service fee as provided for by the resolution of the Government.
Also requisite:
For establishment of the legal bond with Georgia in accordance with subparagraph “a”:
1) Birth certificate or a document issued by a competent authority proving the fact of birth before 21 December 1991;
2) A document proving the fact of residence in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia or on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia) before 21 December 1991;
3) Any document or information proving the grounds for establishing citizenship to them as provided for by this procedure.
For establishment of the legal bond with Georgia in accordance with subparagraph “b”:
For reviewing the issue of establishing Georgian citizenship, the person shall also submit the following document to the competent authority in addition to the documents provided for by subparagraph “a”:
1) Birth certificate or a document issued by a competent authority proving the information that he/she is the child of the person who resided in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia or on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia) before 21 December 1991.
Note: If there are grounds for acquisition of citizenship of another country, the applicant shall be obliged to submit a certificate issued by the competent authorities of the relevant country confirming that the person is not a citizen of that country. This requirement does not apply to the countries that do not issue such certificates.
The application shall be submitted in the official language. Documents drawn up in other language (except USSR passport) may be submitted with Georgian translation certified by notaries illegally operating on the relevant occupied territory or certified in accordance with the procedure prescribed by the legislation of Georgia.
Georgian citizenship may be established to a legally incapacitated person and/or a minor based on an application of their parents or other legal representative. Georgian citizenship may be established to a beneficiary of support by their supporter’s consent, if not otherwise provided for under the court decision.
Service term and fee
On the 30th day – free of charge
On the 20th day – GEL 40
On the 15th day – GEL 65
On the 10th day – GEL 100
Application form for establishment of Georgian citizenship to persons residing in the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia and on the territory of Tskhinvali Region (former Autonomous Region of South Ossetia).
