Getting a Personal Number & Tax ID in Georgia

Two different identification numbers are commonly encountered when living or doing business in Georgia: the personal number shown on a Georgian residence card, and the tax identification number (TIN) issued by the Revenue Service. Which one you need depends primarily on whether you hold a Georgian residence permit.

The personal number (residence card)

A Georgian residence card contains an 11-digit personal number. For foreign nationals who have been granted a residence permit and entered into the Civil Registry, this number is also used as their tax identification number for tax purposes.

To obtain a residence card, you must first be granted a Georgian residence permit. The residence card is issued by the Public Service Development Agency (PSDA) through its territorial offices and Public Service Halls. For more information, see the Guide to Residence Permits.

The tax identification number (TIN)

Foreign nationals who do not hold a Georgian residence permit can still obtain a 9-digit tax identification number (TIN) from the Revenue Service of Georgia. A residence permit is not required.

For many newcomers, remote workers and investors, a Revenue Service TIN is the first identification number obtained because it enables many everyday administrative and business activities.

There are two ways to obtain a TIN:

• In person at a Revenue Service service centre by presenting a valid foreign passport. The TIN is typically issued on the same day.
• Online through the Revenue Service’s electronic services, using a video identity-verification procedure. At present, this verification must generally be completed while the applicant is physically present in Georgia.

What are these numbers used for?

Depending on your circumstances, your personal number or Revenue Service TIN may be required when:

• opening a bank account (see the Banking Guide);
• signing a lease;
• registering as an Individual Entrepreneur (see the Individual Entrepreneur Guide);
• registering with the Revenue Service and filing tax returns; and
• using various government and administrative services.

Which one do you need?

If you are opening a business bank account, registering an Individual Entrepreneur or carrying out other tax-related activities before obtaining a residence permit, a Revenue Service TIN will usually be sufficient.

Once you obtain a Georgian residence permit and are issued a residence card, your 11-digit personal numberbecomes your principal identifier and is also used as your taxpayer identification number.

As administrative procedures may change, it is advisable to confirm the latest requirements with the Public Service Development Agency (PSDA) and the Revenue Service of Georgia before applying.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Georgian personal number?

An 11-digit identifier issued with a Georgian ID card. For residents it doubles as the tax identification number. Foreigners get it once they hold a residence permit and obtain an ID card from the Public Service Development Agency.

Do I need a residence permit to get a tax ID?

No. A foreigner without a residence permit can obtain a 9-digit tax identification number (TIN) directly from the Revenue Service. A residence permit is only needed for the ID card and its 11-digit personal number.

How do I get a tax ID as a foreigner?

Apply at any Revenue Service office in person with your passport — usually completed the same day — or register online via the Revenue Service portal with a video-call verification that must be done from inside Georgia.

What do I need these numbers for?

They are used to open bank accounts, sign contracts, register as an Individual Entrepreneur, file taxes and access government services. Most day-to-day administrative steps ask for one of them.

Where do I get the ID card and personal number?

From the Public Service Development Agency, through Public Service Halls. The residence permit is the prerequisite; the ID card then carries your 11-digit personal number.