Working While Studying in Georgia

International students often ask whether they can work while studying in Georgia. Since the labour migration reforms introduced in 2026, the answer is straightforward: studying and working are now treated as separate legal rights.

Studying and working are separate rights

A Study Residence Permit authorises you to study in Georgia. By itself, however, it does not authorise you to undertake paid employment, self-employment or entrepreneurial activity.

Since 1 March 2026, the Law of Georgia on Labour Migration generally requires foreign nationals to obtain a Right to Labour Activity before carrying out labour activity in Georgia, unless they fall within one of the statutory exemptions.

What students need to work

If you wish to work while studying, you will generally need to obtain a Right to Labour Activity in addition to your study status.

Applications are submitted through the Labour Migration Portal, and the standard processing period is generally up to 30 days, although processing times may vary.

Obtaining the right to work does not replace your Study Residence Permit. Rather, it gives you the additional authorisation required to carry out labour activity while you remain in Georgia as a student.

For detailed guidance on eligibility, exemptions and the application process, see our Right to Labour Activity in Georgia guide.

Remote work for clients abroad

Some international students earn income remotely from clients or employers located outside Georgia.

Depending on the circumstances, certain forms of remote work performed exclusively for a non-resident employer or client may fall within one of the statutory exemptions from the Right to Labour Activity requirement. Whether an exemption applies depends on the specific facts and the relevant legal provisions.

If you intend to work remotely while studying, it is advisable to confirm that your circumstances fall within an applicable exemption before relying on it. The tax aspects of remote work are discussed in our Georgia for Digital Nomads guide.

Penalties

Carrying out labour activity without the required authorisation may result in administrative penalties. A first offence currently carries a GEL 2,000 fine, with higher penalties applying to repeat violations.

Before accepting employment or beginning any business or self-employed activity in Georgia, ensure that you have obtained any required work authorisation.

A note on changing rules

The Right to Labour Activity framework is relatively new, and administrative practice continues to develop. Always confirm the current legal requirements, available exemptions and processing times before starting any paid work in Georgia.

Frequently asked questions

Can international students work in Georgia?

Studying and working are separate. A study residence permit lets you study, but since 1 March 2026 most foreign nationals need a separate 'Right to Labour Activity' work permit to take paid work or run a business in Georgia.

Does my study residence permit allow me to work?

No. Under the rules effective 1 March 2026, holding a temporary residence permit — including a study permit — does not by itself grant the right to work. A separate work permit is required.

How do I get permission to work?

You apply for the 'Right to Labour Activity' permit through the Labour Migration portal. The review can take up to about 30 days, and the relevant work status (such as a D1 visa or work residence permit) follows.

Can I work remotely for a company abroad while studying?

Work performed entirely remotely for foreign clients, with no Georgian employer or local business, may fall outside the permit requirement — but this point is still being clarified, so confirm your situation before relying on it.

What happens if I work without a permit?

Working without the required permit carries fines (2,000 GEL for a first offence), applied to the worker and, for employment, the employer.