Creating a Company in Georgia: Administrative Procedures

Published on April 29, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, has become an attractive destination for international entrepreneurs. With its growing economy and business-friendly reforms, the country offers numerous opportunities for foreign investors. This article will guide you through the essential steps to set up your company in Georgia, highlighting the key administrative procedures and required documents based on the chosen legal structure.

A Favorable Business Environment: Why Choose Georgia?

Before diving into the administrative details, it is important to understand what makes Georgia so appealing to entrepreneurs. The country has undergone significant economic reforms in recent years, which have greatly improved its business climate.

Georgia ranks 7th globally for ease of doing business, according to the World Bank’s Doing Business 2020 report. This enviable position results from several factors:

• A simplified and fast company registration procedure
• Competitive tax rates, with a corporate income tax of only 15%
• A skilled workforce at relatively low costs
• A strategic geographic location between Europe and Asia
• Free trade agreements with the EU and China

Furthermore, since February 1, 2025, Georgia has joined the Common Transit Convention, further facilitating trade with the European Union and other signatory countries.

Available Legal Structures in Georgia

Before starting the administrative procedures, it is crucial to choose the legal structure best suited to your project. Georgia offers several legal forms for businesses, the most common for foreign investors being:

Limited Liability Company (LLC): This is the most popular form among foreign entrepreneurs. It offers limited liability to members and flexibility in management.

Joint Stock Company (JSC): This structure is more suitable for large enterprises or projects requiring significant investment.

Branch Office: It does not have a separate legal personality from the parent company but can conduct commercial activities in Georgia.

Representative Office: It cannot engage in direct commercial activities but serves as a liaison for the parent company.

Each structure has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of liability, taxation, and management. It is recommended to consult a local expert to choose the most appropriate legal form for your situation.

Key Steps to Set Up Your Company in Georgia

Setting up a company in Georgia follows a relatively simple and fast process. Here are the main steps to follow:

1. Choose and Reserve a Company Name

The first step is to choose a unique name for your company. You can check the name’s availability with the National Agency of Public Registry of Georgia (NAPR). Once the name is chosen, you can reserve it for a period of 30 days.

2. Prepare the Incorporation Documents

The required documents vary depending on the chosen legal structure but generally include:

• The company’s articles of association
• The minutes of the constituent assembly
• Copies of the founders’ passports
• A power of attorney if the application is made by a representative

3. Open a Bank Account

It is necessary to open a bank account in Georgia to deposit the share capital. The minimum share capital amount varies depending on the chosen legal structure.

4. Register with the National Agency of Public Registry

Registration is done with the NAPR. This step can be completed online or in person. The processing time is generally one business day.

5. Obtain a Tax Identification Number

The tax identification number is automatically assigned upon company registration.

6. Register for VAT (if necessary)

VAT registration is mandatory if the annual turnover exceeds 100,000 GEL (approximately €30,000).

Required Documents by Legal Structure

The documents required to set up a company in Georgia vary slightly depending on the chosen legal structure. Here is an overview of the main documents needed for the most common forms:

For a Limited Liability Company (LLC)

• Registration application form
• Articles of association
• Minutes of the constituent assembly
• Copies of the founders’ passports
• Proof of the registered office address
• Power of attorney if the application is made by a representative

For a Joint Stock Company (JSC)

In addition to the documents required for an LLC, you will need to provide:

• Proof of deposit of the minimum share capital (which is higher than for an LLC)
• List of shareholders and their capital distribution
• Appointment of the board of directors members

For a Branch Office

• Decision of the parent company to establish a branch in Georgia
• Articles of association of the parent company
• Extract from the commercial register of the country of origin
• Appointment of the legal representative of the branch

For a Representative Office

• Decision of the parent company to establish a representative office
• Articles of association of the parent company
• Letter of appointment of the representative
• Description of the planned activities of the representative office

Specifics and Advantages of the Georgian System

The Georgian company registration system has several specific features that make it particularly attractive to foreign investors:

Speed and Simplicity of Procedures

Georgia is recognized for the speed of its administrative procedures. Company registration can be completed in just one business day, making it one of the fastest processes in the world.

One-Stop Shop

The National Agency of Public Registry of Georgia (NAPR) functions as a one-stop shop, centralizing all the procedures necessary for setting up a company. This significantly simplifies the process for entrepreneurs.

Online Procedures Available

Many procedures, including the initial company registration, can be completed online, greatly facilitating the process for foreign investors.

No Minimum Share Capital for LLCs

Unlike many countries, Georgia does not impose a minimum share capital for setting up an LLC, which lowers the barriers to entry for small businesses and start-ups.

Favorable Tax Regime

Georgia offers an attractive tax regime with a corporate income tax of 15% and tax exemptions in certain special economic zones.

Ease of Obtaining Visas for Entrepreneurs

Georgia has implemented simplified procedures for obtaining visas and residence permits for foreign entrepreneurs, facilitating their establishment in the country.

Challenges and Important Considerations

Despite the many advantages, setting up a business in Georgia also presents some challenges that are important to consider:

Language Barrier

Although English is increasingly common in business circles, Georgian remains the official language for all administrative documents. It is therefore often necessary to use local translators or intermediaries.

Cultural Differences

Business practices in Georgia may differ from those in the West. It is important to familiarize yourself with the local business culture to avoid misunderstandings.

Developing Banking System

Although the Georgian banking sector has modernized considerably in recent years, some international financial services may be limited compared to Western standards.

Regional Instability

Georgia’s geopolitical situation, particularly its relations with Russia, can be a source of uncertainty for some investors.

Limited Domestic Market

With a population of about 3.7 million, the Georgian domestic market is relatively small. Businesses often need to consider an export strategy to grow.

Conclusion: Georgia, a Land of Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

Setting up a company in Georgia offers many advantages to international entrepreneurs. With its simplified administrative procedures, favorable tax regime, and strategic position between Europe and Asia, Georgia positions itself as a prime destination for foreign investors.

The speed and simplicity of the company registration process, combined with a favorable economic environment, make Georgia fertile ground for developing new ventures. Whether you are a start-up looking to minimize start-up costs or an established company seeking new growth opportunities, Georgia certainly deserves your attention.

However, as with any foreign investment, it is crucial to prepare well and surround yourself with experienced professionals to navigate the local environment effectively. With a well-planned approach and a thorough understanding of the Georgian market, your business will be well-positioned to succeed in this dynamic and growing country.