How to buy an apartment in Georgia — step by step
Georgia is one of the few countries where a foreigner can buy real estate as easily as a citizen. No permits, no restrictions (except agricultural land), registration in one day.
Who can buy property in Georgia
Any foreigner, regardless of citizenship, can purchase:
- Apartments and flats
- Private houses
- Commercial property
- Land plots (except agricultural)
Step 1: Choosing a property
Decide on your goal: living, investment, or residence permit. This affects location and type.
Tip. As of February 2026, residence permit requires property valued at $100,000 (independent appraisal); from 1 March 2026 the threshold rises to $150,000. You can buy several properties to meet the total.
Step 2: Checking documents
Always verify:
- Registry extract (amonaçeri) — confirms ownership
- No encumbrances or liens
- Area in documents matches actual
- No utility arrears
Step 3: Signing the contract
The sale contract is prepared at the Public Service Hall (House of Justice). Notary is not required — the registrar performs this role.
Step 4: Payment
Payment is usually by bank transfer. Cash is accepted but must be declared above $30,000.
Step 5: Registration of ownership
Registration options:
- Standard (4 working days) — 50 GEL (~$20)
- Expedited (1 day) — 100 GEL (~$40)
- Urgent (same day) — 200 GEL (~$80)
Taxes on purchase
Good news — when buying property in Georgia there is no:
- Purchase tax
- Stamp duty
- VAT (for residential)
The only cost is the registration fee (50–200 GEL).
Common mistakes
- Not checking the registry extract — always get a fresh one
- Buying without viewing — especially for new builds
- Ignoring utilities — check tariffs in advance