Georgia will ban foreign nationals without a permanent residence permit from working as couriers, taxi drivers, or tour guides, starting March 1, 2026.

Axar.az, citing Civil Georgia, reports that the decree, signed by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, introduces a formal work permit system, but these three occupations are effectively barred for foreigners with a zero quota.

The move is part of a broader crackdown on migration, with the government planning to expel about 4,000 illegal migrants this year from an estimated 20,000.

Under the new regulations, employers who wish to hire foreign workers must first post job vacancies on the state employment portal for at least 10 working days. Hiring a foreigner is only allowed if no suitable local candidate is found. Self-employed foreigners must apply directly to the State Employment Support Agency and undergo a video interview.

Work permits are generally issued for six months to a year, with annual extensions for the first five years and longer-term permits for IT sector workers. The permit becomes valid only after the foreigner obtains a D1 visa or residence permit, with strict deadlines for application submission and automatic termination if the rules are not followed.

Certain groups, including refugees, asylum seekers, diplomats, international organization employees, accredited journalists, and investment-based residents, are exempt from these restrictions.