From 1 January 2026, Georgia has instituted a new entry requirement for all foreign visitors: tourists must hold valid health and accident insurance to enter the country. This regulation, introduced under amendments to the Law of Georgia “On Tourism”, is designed to enhance traveller protection, align Georgia with international travel norms, and ensure visitors are covered for medical and emergency needs throughout their stay.
New Mandatory Insurance Requirement
Under the new rule, every international visitor — whether arriving for tourism, business, or transit — must present a valid insurance policy at the point of entry. This measure applies to any foreign national entering Georgia, including those arriving by air, road, or sea.
Crucially, the insurance must meet specific criteria regarding coverage, duration, documentation, language and issuer. Border officials will check that these conditions are satisfied before allowing entry, and visitors without compliant insurance may face refusal of entry or other penalties.
What the Insurance Must Include
Below is a summary of the key requirements for the mandatory insurance policy:
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum Coverage | At least 30,000 Georgian Lari (GEL) coverage for health and accident-related expenses. |
| Validity Period | Must cover the entire duration of stay — from arrival to departure. |
| Acceptable Formats | Can be in physical (paper) or electronic form. |
| Document Language | Must be in Georgian or English. |
| Issuer | Can be issued by a Georgian or foreign insurance company. |
| Mandatory Policy Details | Must list parties to the contract, covered risks, coverage dates, territory, limits, premium and payment terms. |
Who Is Required to Comply
This insurance requirement applies to:
- Visitors entering Georgia for tourism-related purposes.
- Business travellers and those in transit.
However, certain categories of travellers are exempt from this mandatory insurance rule, including:
- Holders of diplomatic or official passports.
- Accredited staff of diplomatic missions, consular offices, and international organisations (along with their families).
- Individuals entering under international treaties or agreements with Georgia.
- Drivers engaged in international freight and passenger transport.
Why the Change Matters
Georgia’s move reflects a broader international trend toward ensuring that visitors have adequate financial protection for medical care and emergency services. Without insurance, tourists facing sudden illness or accidents could incur significant healthcare costs, potentially straining both the individual and the Georgian healthcare system.
Prior to this regulation, travel insurance was widely recommended but not compulsory for entry. From 2026 onwards, failure to produce valid insurance documentation could result in denied boarding by airlines or refusal of entry at the border.
Practical Advice for Travellers
- Verify coverage: Make sure any policy you purchase meets the GEL 30,000 minimum and includes all required information.
- Choose suitable insurers: Many international and Georgian insurers now offer compliant travel insurance packages.
- Carry documentation: Keep proof of insurance accessible in both electronic and printed form.
In summary, this new insurance requirement aims to provide greater protection for visitors and reduce the risk of uninsured medical emergencies, contributing to a safer and more resilient travel experience in Georgia