Georgia, a country located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, is a popular tourist destination for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. In addition to tourism, Georgia also offers great opportunities for visiting friends and relatives (VFR) for those who have family or friends living in the country. To make the process of obtaining a visa easier, the Georgian government offers an electronic visa (eVisa) for VFR purposes. This type of visa is designed for people who wish to visit their relatives or friends in Georgia for a short period of time.
This visa can be obtained online by submitting an application form and providing the required documents. The application process is simple and straightforward, and the eVisa is usually processed within five business days. The eVisa is issued in the form of a digital document that can be printed or saved on a mobile device.
Visitors traveling to Georgia with the eVisa for Visiting Friends and Relatives must comply with the rules and regulations set by the Georgian government. They must have a valid travel document/passport, which should be valid for at least six months beyond the validity of the visa. They must also provide proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Georgia and return travel, as well as proof of health/accident insurance valid for the entire period of their stay. Visitors must also provide proof of accommodation in Georgia, such as a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from their host.
To avoid any complications during the visa application process, it is important for visitors to carefully review the eligibility criteria and the required documents before submitting their application. Visitors must also ensure that they have provided accurate and truthful information in their application, as providing false information may result in visa refusal or denial of entry into the country.
Overall, the Georgia eVisa for Visiting Friends and Relatives offers a convenient and hassle-free way for visitors to travel to Georgia to visit their family and friends. With its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Georgia is a country that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all visitors.
The eligibility criteria for obtaining a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives include:
When applying for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives, the following documents are typically required:
A valid passport or travel document: The passport or travel document must be valid for at least three months beyond the validity of the Georgian eVisa.
A recent passport-sized photograph: The photograph must meet the requirements set by the Georgian government, including a clear, high-quality image of the applicant's face.
Proof of accommodation: The applicant must provide proof of accommodation in Georgia, such as a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from a friend or relative.
Proof of sufficient funds: The applicant must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover all travel expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses. This can include bank statements, credit card statements, and proof of employment or income.
Travel itinerary: The applicant should provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes the dates and locations of their stay in Georgia.
Return travel ticket: The applicant must provide proof of a return ticket or onward travel ticket to demonstrate their intention to leave Georgia within the validity period of the eVisa.
Health/accident insurance: The applicant must provide proof of valid health/accident insurance that is valid across the whole territory of Georgia throughout the period of their stay.
Letter of invitation: If the applicant is staying with a friend or relative in Georgia, they may need to provide a letter of invitation from the host. The letter should include the host's contact information, the purpose of the visit, and the planned length of stay.
It's important to note that additional documents may be required depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant. It's recommended to check the specific requirements of the Georgia eVisa application before submitting an application.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives:
Step 1: Check eligibility criteria
Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives.
Step 2: Gather required documents
Collect all the required documents such as a valid passport, recent photograph, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, travel itinerary, return travel ticket, health/accident insurance, and letter of invitation (if applicable).
Step 3: Access the eVisa application form
Access the Georgia eVisa application form through the official eVisa portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.
Step 4: Fill in the application form
Fill in the application form with accurate and up-to-date personal information, travel details, and other relevant information as required.
Step 5: Upload required documents
Upload all the required documents in the specified format and size as per the instructions provided in the application form.
Step 6: Pay the eVisa fee
Pay the eVisa application fee using a valid credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable.
Step 7: Submit the application
Submit the completed eVisa application form along with all the required documents.
Step 8: Check application status
Check the status of the eVisa application by logging into the eVisa portal using the assigned reference number.
Step 9: Receive the eVisa
Once the application is approved, the eVisa will be sent to the email address provided in the application form. The applicant can then print the eVisa and carry it along with other required documents during travel.
It's important to note that the processing time for a Georgia eVisa can vary, and it's recommended to apply well in advance of the intended travel date.
The processing time and fees for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives are as follows:
The processing time for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is typically 5 business days. However, in some cases, the processing time may take up to 10 business days or more depending on the individual circumstances of the application.
The fee for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is US $20. The fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected. Additionally, there may be additional fees charged by the payment service provider, depending on the payment method chosen by the applicant.
It's important to note that the processing time and fees are subject to change, and it's recommended to check the official eVisa portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia for the most up-to-date information.
There are several benefits of obtaining a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives, including:
Convenience: The eVisa application process is entirely online, making it easy and convenient for applicants to apply from anywhere with an internet connection.
Time-saving: The eVisa application process is faster than traditional visa application methods, as it eliminates the need for applicants to visit a Georgian embassy or consulate in person.
Cost-effective: The fee for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is relatively low compared to the fees charged for traditional visa application methods.
Flexibility: The eVisa allows travelers to enter and exit Georgia multiple times during the validity period of the visa, making it flexible for those who may need to make multiple trips to the country.
Longer stays: The eVisa allows visitors to stay in Georgia for up to 90 days, providing them with ample time to spend with friends and family.
Access to tourist destinations: Georgia is a beautiful country with many tourist destinations that visitors can explore while visiting friends and relatives.
Safety: The Georgian government takes the security and safety of visitors seriously, and the eVisa application process includes strict background checks to ensure that visitors are genuine and pose no threat to the country.
Overall, obtaining a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives provides visitors with a convenient, cost-effective, and flexible way to travel to Georgia and spend time with loved ones.
Here are some tips for a successful application for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives:
Start the application process early: It's important to start the eVisa application process early to allow ample time for processing and to avoid any last-minute complications.
Provide accurate information: It's crucial to provide accurate and complete information on the eVisa application form. Any errors or inconsistencies can result in delays or even rejection of the application.
Check and double-check the application form: Before submitting the eVisa application, it's essential to check and double-check the form for any errors, omissions, or inconsistencies.
Provide all required documents: Ensure that all required documents are included with the eVisa application, such as a valid passport, a return ticket, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance.
Maintain transparency: Be transparent and honest throughout the eVisa application process. Any false information or documents can lead to rejection of the application.
Follow the instructions: Follow all instructions provided on the eVisa application portal carefully, such as photograph requirements, payment methods, and other guidelines.
Keep a record of the application: Keep a record of the eVisa application and any supporting documents for future reference.
Contact the relevant authorities for any queries: If there are any queries or concerns regarding the eVisa application process, contact the relevant authorities or seek assistance from a reputable visa service provider.
By following these tips, applicants can increase their chances of a successful application for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives.
Georgia is a beautiful country with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some top destinations to visit when traveling to visit friends and relatives in Georgia:
Tbilisi: Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional architecture, cozy cafes, and excellent restaurants. Visitors can explore the Old Town, visit the Georgian National Museum, or take a cable car ride to the Narikala Fortress for stunning views of the city.
Mtskheta: Mtskheta is a historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage site located near Tbilisi. Visitors can explore the ancient churches and monasteries, including the Jvari Monastery and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.
Kazbegi: Kazbegi is a mountainous region located in the northern part of Georgia, known for its stunning natural beauty and adventurous outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, horse riding, or take a 4x4 jeep tour to explore the region.
Batumi: Batumi is a coastal city located on the Black Sea coast of Georgia. Visitors can enjoy the beaches, walk along the boulevard, visit the Batumi Botanical Garden, or explore the Adjara region.
Kakheti: Kakheti is a wine-producing region located in the eastern part of Georgia, known for its stunning landscapes, vineyards, and wine tasting tours. Visitors can explore the region's historic monasteries, visit the Alaverdi Monastery, or taste the local wine and cuisine.
Svaneti: Svaneti is a remote mountainous region located in the northwestern part of Georgia, known for its unique culture, traditional architecture, and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the medieval towers, hike to the glaciers, or visit the Ushguli village, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
These are just a few of the many destinations to explore when traveling to visit friends and relatives in Georgia. Each destination offers a unique experience and an opportunity to immerse oneself in Georgian culture and history.
When applying for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives, there are some common mistakes that applicants should avoid to ensure a smooth and successful application process. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
Providing incomplete or inaccurate information: It is important to provide complete and accurate information when filling out the visa application form. Any mistakes or omissions can delay or even result in the rejection of the application.
Not checking the eligibility criteria: Before applying for the eVisa, applicants should carefully check the eligibility criteria and make sure they meet all the requirements.
Applying from within Georgia: Applicants should not apply for the eVisa from within the territory of Georgia. Doing so can result in the automatic rejection of the application.
Not providing the required documents: Applicants should make sure they provide all the required documents as per the instructions. Failure to provide the necessary documents can result in the rejection of the application.
Waiting until the last minute to apply: It is advisable to apply for the eVisa well in advance of the intended travel date. Waiting until the last minute can result in delays or even the rejection of the application.
Not paying attention to processing times and fees: Applicants should make sure they are aware of the processing times and fees for the eVisa and plan accordingly. Failure to do so can result in unnecessary delays or additional expenses.
Not reading the instructions carefully: Applicants should read the instructions and guidelines provided on the official eVisa website carefully before applying. Failure to follow the instructions can result in the rejection of the application.
By avoiding these common mistakes, applicants can increase their chances of a successful application and a hassle-free travel experience when visiting friends and relatives in Georgia.
A Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is an electronic travel authorization that allows travelers to visit friends and relatives in Georgia for short periods.
Citizens of eligible countries who intend to visit friends or relatives in Georgia for short periods are eligible to apply for a Georgia eVisa.
The required documents include a valid passport, a digital photo, proof of accommodation, and proof of travel insurance. Additional documents may be required depending on the applicant's individual circumstances.
The processing time for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is typically three business days. However, it may take longer if additional processing is required.
A Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is typically valid for 180 days from the date of issuance. The maximum stay allowed is 90 days.
No, it is not possible to extend a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives. If you wish to stay longer in Georgia, you must apply for a different type of visa.
No, you cannot apply for a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives from within Georgia. You must apply for the visa before you enter Georgia.
The cost of a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is 20 USD. Additional fees may apply depending on the payment method chosen.
If your Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives is denied, you may be able to apply for a different type of visa or appeal the decision. Contact the Georgia Ministry of Foreign Affairs for further guidance.
No, a Georgia eVisa for visiting friends and relatives does not permit you to work in Georgia. If you wish to work in Georgia, you must apply for a different type of visa.