In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from choosing a legal structure to tax implications and real-life experiences from expats who’ve done it.
✅ Why Georgia is Great for Business
Georgia ranks high in international ease-of-doing-business rankings for a reason. The country boasts:
- 🏦 Low taxes (including a 0% corporate tax for reinvested profits)
- ⏱️ Fast company registration — often completed within 1–2 days
- 🌍 Open to foreign ownership — no local partner needed
- 🧾 Straightforward legal requirements
These advantages have attracted entrepreneurs, freelancers, and digital nomads from all over the world.
🧾 Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in Georgia
1. Choose a Legal Form
Most foreigners go with either:
- Individual Entrepreneur (IE) – Similar to a sole proprietorship. Simple and fast.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Offers more legal protection and credibility.
2. Pick a Business Name
You can check name availability online via the National Agency of Public Registry (NAPR). The name must be unique and include the legal structure (e.g., «MyCompany LLC»).
3. Submit Documents at the Public Service Hall
You’ll need:
- Passport
- Address in Georgia (can be a temporary rental)
- Company charter (for LLCs)
- Application form
All documents can be submitted at the Public Service Hall, and many services are available in English.
4. Pay the Registration Fee
Costs vary slightly depending on speed:
- 💰 50 GEL (standard, 2 business days)
- 💰 100 GEL (expedited, same-day service)
5. Open a Business Bank Account
Most Georgian banks allow foreigners to open a business account quickly with your registration papers. Popular banks include:
- Bank of Georgia
- TBC Bank
- Liberty Bank
💸 Taxes for Businesses in Georgia
Georgia’s tax system is flat and business-friendly:
- 🏢 Corporate Tax: 15% (but 0% if profits are reinvested)
- 👤 Personal Income Tax: 20%
- 📦 VAT: 18% (only required if turnover exceeds 100,000 GEL/year)
Many businesses use the Estonian-style tax model, meaning you only pay tax on distributed profits.
If you’re unsure, hiring a local accountant is affordable and highly recommended.
🧠 Practical Tips from Entrepreneurs in Georgia
- ✅ Use an agency if you don’t speak Georgian. They’ll help register the business and translate paperwork.
- 📲 Register for e-Residency (optional) — lets you manage your business online.
- 🏘️ Coworking spaces like Impact Hub Tbilisi or Terminal are great for networking.
- 📆 Stay updated on laws — tax and business rules are fairly stable but check yearly updates.
💬 Testimonials from Real Founders
«I started a small IT consultancy in Tbilisi and was shocked at how fast and easy everything was. From paperwork to opening a bank account, it took just two days.»
«Georgia’s reinvestment tax exemption made it possible for me to grow my online store way faster than I could have in Germany.»
«I had zero knowledge of Georgian laws, but with a translator and a great accountant, I launched my import business without issues.»
❓ FAQs About Starting a Business in Georgia
Can I start a business as a tourist or digital nomad?
Yes. You don’t need residency to register a business in Georgia.
Is Georgian language required?
No, but having documents translated into Georgian is mandatory. You can use an agency or translator.
How long does registration take?
Standard time is 2 business days. Express service can register your business in 1 day.
Do I need a local partner?
No. Foreigners can own 100% of the business.
Is accounting required?
Yes. Even small businesses must file regular reports, but accounting services are cheap and widely available.