Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Georgia Register Travel insurance Destinations
Last updated: ET
Still valid: ET
Latest updates: Editorial change - removal of the information about the Orthodox Easter curfew
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Georgia - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Georgia.
The Russian border regions, breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and surrounding areas - Avoid all travel
Avoid all travel to regions bordering Russia, including the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as to the areas surrounding them.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place and a daily curfew is in effect from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
You must wear a face covering in closed public spaces and in taxis.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
COVID-19 response – Government of Georgia
Abkhazia and South Ossetia
Tensions are high in both breakaway regions. Unexploded ordnance, landmines and explosions may pose a risk in those parts of Abkhazia and South Ossetia where military operations have occurred.
Terrorists have carried out attacks in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. They typically use car bombs to target military and security facilities. Exercise a high level of personal security awareness at all times.
Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in these areas, due to security concerns and travel restrictions.
Russian border regions
Avoid entering or leaving the country via land borders with Russia in these republics:
- Chechnya
- Dagestan
- Ingushetia
- Kabardino-Balkaria
- Karachay-Cherkessia
- North Ossetia
Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Inadequate lighting in public places increases the likelihood of crime.
- Do not carry large amounts of cash and do not display signs of affluence
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Pay careful attention when your credit card is handled by others during payment processing
Muggings, home invasions, carjackings, sexual assaults and other violent crimes against foreigners have occurred.
Do not visit disreputable bars and neighbourhoods, where local law enforcement may be unable or unwilling to intervene. In one scam that is particularly common in Tbilisi, locals invite tourists to bars for food and drinks, and then force them to pay a steep bill.
Kidnapping
Kidnappings have occurred in Abkhazia, South Ossetia and other areas bordering Russia. You should travel in a group. Do not walk or take the subway alone after dark. Vary your routine and lock doors to cars and residences. Avoid showing signs of affluence and exercise vigilance in crowded places, such as markets and public transportation facilities.
Demonstrations
Political demonstrations take place regularly in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi.
Demonstrations may continue to occur, following recent parliamentary elections.
Clashes between protestors and security forces have resulted in casualties. Security forces have used water cannons to disperse crowds. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Traffic accidents are a common cause of injury and death.
Drive defensively. Poor road conditions, reduced driving standards, insufficient road markings and inadequate lighting create hazards.
Avoid driving after dark.
Public transportation
Use only officially marked taxis and negotiate fares in advance. Do not share rides with strangers.
Exercise caution when travelling over long distances by train at night and when alone. Do not leave the compartment unattended. Lock the cabin door from the inside.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Mountaineering and hiking
Accurate information on mountain conditions can be difficult to obtain, and weather in mountainous areas can be unpredictable.
If you intend on engage in mountaineering or hiking:
- never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
- know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
- obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails
General safety information
Standards of police practice may differ from those you might expect in Canada.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from Georgian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Georgia.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required for stays up to 365 days
Business visa: Not required for stays up to 365 days
Student visa: Not required for stays up to 365 days
If you are planning to stay in Georgia for more than 365 days, you must obtain a visa before entering the country. If you overstay your visa, you may be fined.
State Commission on Migration Issues of Georgia
Abkhazia and South Ossetia
You need prior authorization from Georgian authorities to enter the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. As there is no official border control, you could face serious consequences, such as incarceration and fines, when re-entering Georgia if your passport has been stamped by the authorities of these regions.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Western Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Western Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Western Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, Rift Valley fever, West Nile virus and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a limited risk of malaria in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by mosquitoes. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in well-screened air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet or pre-treating travel gear with insecticides.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Western Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing facilities
Consult the following links to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test:
Local COVID-19 testing facilities - National Center for Disease Control and Public Health (in Georgian)
Many specialized medical services are available in Tbilisi.
Medical facilities are limited outside of Tbilisi.
Medical services can be expensive, and immediate cash payment is often required.
Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
The conviction rate is high, regardless of whether or not you are guilty.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Medication
Georgian authorities strictly regulate the possession and import of prescription medication and some over-the-counter medication that is commonly available in Canada. Violating these regulations could result in deportation or even imprisonment.
Carry a prescription and declare all of your medication on your customs form. You may also be required to obtain a certificate from the Georgian Ministry of Health.
Georgian Public Service Hall (in Georgian only)
Imports and exports
To export certain artwork, antiques, jewels and items considered to be of national heritage, you need a special licence issued by the Ministry of Culture and Sport’s Department of Expertise and Evaluation.
Ministry of Culture and Sport of Georgia
Photography
Photographing military installations or government buildings may result in a penalty. Seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Georgia.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Georgia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Military service
Georgian-Canadian dual citizens may be subject to military service.
Driving
There is zero tolerance of drinking and driving.
You must carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
LGBTQ2 travellers
Georgian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Homosexuality, however, is not widely accepted in Georgian society.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Surrogacy
There are no clear procedures or regulations about surrogacy. If you are considering surrogacy, seek advice from legal professionals knowledgeable in Canadian and Georgian laws and citizenship procedures.
Money
The currency of Georgia is the lari (GEL). U.S. dollars and euros are widely accepted and exchanged for local currency.
Avoid unlicensed exchange facilities.
Tbilisi’s upscale tourist hotels and restaurants accept major credit cards. ATMs are available in major cities.
There are legal limits on currency imports and exports.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Georgia is located in an active seismic zone. An earthquake may cause landslides in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur up to one week after the initial earthquake.
Heavy rains may trigger floods and landslides.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 022
- medical assistance: 099
Consular assistance
Tbilisi - Consulate of Canada
Ankara - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Turkey in Ankara and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.