Georgia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

Most dispatchers speak Georgian and/or Russian, but they will transfer calls to English-speaking operators.

• Dial 112 for all emergencies.

Contact the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi at +995 32 227 7000 to report crimes or emergencies (after calling local authorities). 

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Terrorist groups

Georgia is located near Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and the Russian North Caucasus region. These areas have experienced recent terrorist activity and/or been the source of terrorists who have committed attacks abroad.

• Georgia has improved its border security, but its location and liberal visa laws make it a significant regional transit country.  
• Foreign fighters either from or transiting through Georgia have joined ISIS and other terrorist groups in Syria and Iraq.
• Terrorist recruiting has occurred in the Pankisi Gorge area of Georgia in the past. Some known terrorists have ties to the Pankisi Gorge region. 
• Georgia substantially updated and expanded its counterterrorism laws in 2015, which has led to a significant reduction in terrorist activity and/or threats originating from Georgia.
• For more information, review our Terrorism page.

High-risk areas: Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and nearby areas

The United States and most other countries consider these regions part of Georgia.

• The de facto governments of Abkhazia and South Ossetia claim to be independent countries. Russian troops and border guards occupy both regions. The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi does not have contact with these de facto governments and is limited in its ability to assist U.S. citizens in these areas.

Attacks, kidnappings, and other criminal incidents have occurred in and around these areas. None of the activity has been anti-American in nature, but there is a high risk of travelers finding themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Travel restrictions

U.S. Embassy staff are prohibited from travel within 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) of the border lines (called ABLs) dividing Abkhazia and South Ossetia from Georgia-administered territory. The only exception is for approved official business and with the use of an armored vehicle. Passing through these areas on major highways is not restricted.

• South Ossetia's border line is not clearly marked in many places and has been moved in the past. Hikers risk accidentally wandering into South Ossetia, particularly on the border's eastern side. This could result in detention by Russian security forces.
• There is unexploded ordnance from past conflicts near the administrative boundary lines of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
• Per Georgian law, you can only enter these regions from the Georgian-administered side, not from Russia. If you enter without proper documentation, you may face arrest, detention, imprisonment, or fines.
• Per Georgian law, it is illegal to do business in Abkhazia or South Ossetia that requires permits, licenses, or registration.   

Avoid travel to Pankisi Gorge

• Avoid travel to the Pankisi Gorge region. This region is north of the villages of Matane and Chorale and extends towards the border with Russia.
• There are restrictions on U.S. Embassy personnel traveling to the Pankisi Gorge region. This is due to security risks and a history of civil unrest.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• You can find security alerts regarding demonstrations here. 

Crime

Criminals may target foreigners. Use the same precautions you take in any large city to avoid becoming a victim of crime.

• Alcohol consumption is common and may escalate otherwise minor disputes.
• Carrying pocketknives or other cutting devices in Georgia is illegal. You may face detention or get a citation.
• U.S. citizen and other visitors have reported occurrences of sexual assault in Georgia.
• There continue to be reports of street children begging, hassling, and behaving aggressively toward foreigners. The U.S. Embassy is aware of incidents where groups of street children approach and distract U.S. travelers to commit theft.
• Financial crimes in the form of credit card fraud against people and larger targeted attacks against banks and other financial institutions are common.
• Organized crime remains an issue. High-profile arrests of Georgian nationals involved with transnational criminal groups continue to occur across Europe.
• There are street gangs and drug dealers in Tbilisi and other urban areas of Georgia. These groups generally do not target foreigners.

Safety tips

• Avoid walking alone at night. 
• Be careful when riding alone in private taxis or “marshrutka” minibuses.
• Keep a low profile. Do not carry lots of cash.
• Do not draw attention to yourself.
• Avoid using public WIFI networks or internet terminals. These do not protect your data or personal information.
• Consider using a VPN if you connect to public WIFI.
• Use caution at ATMs and always check for skimming devices or other tampering.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

• Internet romance scams and financial scams are common in Georgia. 
• Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad.
• Scammers may target U.S. citizens.
• Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks.
• Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Other common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Money transfers
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. Embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact law enforcement at 112 for assistance.
• For victim services and support, please call 116-006.
• LEPL Agency for State Care and Assistance for the Victims of Human Trafficking also provides temporary shelter, medical and rehabilitation services, interpretation, and legal assistance to victims of sexual assault or domestic violence.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Venomous snakes

Georgia has 8 venomous snake species that are active between March and October. Few medical facilities have antivenin serum. Treat all snakes as potentially venomous.

Travel to remote areas

If you plan to camp, climb, or hike in the mountains or any remote area in Georgia:

• Research local conditions in advance. Landslides are common during periods of heavy rain and could create unanticipated obstacles.
• Go with a friend or a group. Avoid traveling alone.
• Provide route and contact information to someone not traveling with you.
• Maintain communication with your family and friends.
• Dial 112 for emergency services. Most dispatchers speak Georgian and Russian but will transfer calls to English-speaking operators.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Drugs and firearms

• Possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs have severe penalties. If you are convicted, you can face long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• You cannot import firearms into Georgia.

Restricted items

• The import or export of alcohol, tobacco, jewelry, religious materials, art or artifacts, antiquities, and business equipment may be restricted.
• There are export restrictions for items of historical value, such as artwork, antiques, jewelry, or paintings. You must obtain a license from the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport.
• For more information, review the customs regulations webpage.
• There are strict rules for prescription medications that can be brought into the country. If you carry prohibited prescription drugs, you could be detained or face heavy fines or arrest.
• Check with the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Georgia.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.

• Georgia routinely fails to inform the U.S. Embassy of arrests of U.S. citizens. If you are detained, ask the police or detention center officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi immediately.
• Georgian police can hold you for up to 24 hours without court approval and up to 48 hours with court approval. This is called "administrative detention." During administrative detention, you have no right to a lawyer.
• If arrested, you may be held in jail for up to 9 months before your trial.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Consensual same-sex conduct is legal in Georgia. On December 1, 2024, a new law called “On the Protection of Family Values and Minors” went into effect. This means:

• Same-sex couples can’t adopt children
• Sex-change surgery is not allowed
• Materials that support gay and lesbian people cannot be shared
• Public gatherings related to gay and lesbian issues are banned

Gay and lesbian people often face discrimination and harassment. Some gay and lesbian persons in Georgia have been targets of attacks. Violent protests against gay and lesbian people have happened in Tbilisi, especially during public events.

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Georgian law prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, but the government does not enforce the law effectively.

• Social acceptance of persons with disabilities is not as common as in the United States.
• Accessibility is limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure, even in Tbilisi and other major tourist areas.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

Women travelers have been sexually harassed and assaulted in Georgia. 

• These incidents often take place after hours in bars, clubs, or restaurants. Alcohol or drugs sometimes play a role.
• Use trusted taxi services and sit in the back seat.
• Always carry a cell phone to contact the police or someone you trust in case of an emergency.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

Freedom of expression and press freedom

Georgia faces significant challenges regarding freedom of expression and press freedom.

• Journalists face violence, threats, and harassment, with insufficient accountability for attacks against them.
• During protests, journalists have been subjected to tear gas, physical abuse from police, and arrests while reporting.
• Review our information for Journalists.

Demonstrations and assembly rights

Georgian law generally allows for freedom of assembly. However, authorities have used disproportionate force when managing protests.

• Peaceful protesters have been arrested on charges of “petty hooliganism” and disobedience of a police order.

Legal system and detention concerns

There are concerning laws for arrests and detention.

• Administrative detention can extend to 48 hours.
• Courts often do not examine the lawfulness of arrests.
• Detainees are not always informed of their rights to timely legal counsel, family notification, etc.

Prison conditions

Prison facilities face serious issues.

• There have been credible reports of physical and psychological mistreatment by staff.
• There is inadequate medical care.
• Extended solitary confinement is used as punishment.
• Mental health care within the penitentiary system is inadequate.
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Georgia Traveler Information 
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services. 

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not present or are unreliable in most areas except Tbilisi.

• Ambulances are not equipped with advanced medical equipment.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Georgia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• If you fail to pay your medical expenses, you may be barred from entering Georgia in the future.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Hospitals require payment up front or proof of sufficient insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• U.S. citizens have complained about unethical medical business practices. Before agreeing to any medical care, you should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.  
• Before traveling, ensure that your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims. 

Vaccinations

• Hepatitis A and pre-exposure rabies vaccines are recommended. 

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Healthcare facilities are available in Tbilisi. It may be harder to find adequate medical care in rural areas.

• The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Georgia.
• Georgia strictly regulates types and quantities of prescription medications that can be brought into the country. Travelers carrying prohibited prescription drugs have been arrested and faced heavy fines or prison sentences.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Georgia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Georgia who are in an opposite-sex relationship. You must provide proof of this relationship to start the surrogacy process and there are strict requirements regarding relationship status that must be met.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Georgia via ART or with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney capable of navigating any legislative changes that may arise, and be prepared for long and unexpected delays with local authorities while documenting your child’s birth or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences. Some unscrupulous surrogacy agencies outside of Georgia do not correctly inform prospective parents that same-sex and single persons cannot utilize surrogacy and/or ART in Georgia. Failure to do so has led to expensive and drawn-out legal issues for parents. Seeking advice from an experienced U.S. immigration attorney before embarking on this journey should also be considered.

Delays and exit requirements

Some families who have traveled to Georgia for ART or surrogacy services in the past 2 years waited up to 9 months before they could return to the United States with their newborn.

• According to local law, children born through IVF or surrogacy cannot leave Georgia unless they have a local birth certificate issued by the House of Justice. Border police check this when you leave.
• Mistakes by surrogacy agencies have caused major delays in getting birth certificates until the family’s case goes through the Georgian court system.
• Some families have reported large, unexpected costs from these delays and from their surrogacy agencies. Some families also have said they paid for services that the agencies did not provide when they arrived in Georgia.

The U.S. Embassy cannot help U.S. citizens in Georgia with legal cases related to ART or surrogacy.

Safety concerns

Some clinics in Tbilisi have been investigated for crimes related to egg harvesting and mistreatment of surrogates. 

• Consider doing extensive reviews of Georgian ART, surrogacy, and health providers.
• The Georgian Ministry of Health was unable to provide U.S. Embassy Tbilisi with a comprehensive list of all fertility clinics operating in Georgia. The Ministry also could not confirm what the requirements are to register as a licensed fertility clinic. 

Water quality and food safety

• Though tap water in Tbilisi and other urban areas is generally safe to drink and use in cooking, you may still want to use bottled water.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Some spices made in Georgia contain high levels of lead. Buy spices only from recognized U.S. or international makers.
• Ensure food is cooked thoroughly to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.

Air quality

• Air pollution can be a problem in Tbilisi. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling, if necessary.
• Georgia has installed and maintains air quality monitors around the country. Real-time data is available at: https://air.gov.ge/en/.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.

Common diseases

• Hepatitis C: Georgia has a high rate of Hepatitis C. Be careful if you plan to get a tattoo, piercing, dental work, or other procedure that exposes you to blood. Make sure the provider uses proper sterilization procedures.
• Tuberculosis: Visit the CDC website for more information about resources for travelers regarding specific issues in Georgia.
• Review our Medicine and Health page for general health information,

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road conditions in Georgia are different from those in the United States. Many roads are in poor condition with stretches of road missing pavement and having large potholes.

• Avoid driving at night. It can be dangerous due to varying roads and traffic conditions. There is also poor lighting, lack of headlights, and the presence of livestock in the road.
• U.S. Embassy employees are not allowed to travel at night outside of urban areas, except for emergencies.
• Exercise caution when driving in Georgia. Reckless driving is common, and drivers frequently ignore traffic laws.
• Be careful when crossing streets. Pedestrians are not given right-of-way.
• Winter travel can also be dangerous, especially in the mountains.
• Snow tires or chains are required on all vehicles traveling in mountainous terrain during the winter. 

Traffic laws 

Speed limits range from 50 to 69 mph (80 to 110 kmph) on highways and 19 to 44 mph (30 to 70 kmph) on urban roads.

• It is illegal to make right turns at red traffic lights.
• Wear seat belts. 
• Children under 4 must travel in child-safety seats. Children under twelve may not ride in the front seat.
• There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.
• Georgia began inspecting vehicles for safety in 2018, but there are still many vehicles on the road in poor condition.
• The Georgian Patrol Police maintain traffic safety in Georgia, but enforcement is inconsistent.

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxi and ride share services are generally well regulated and available throughout Georgia. Do not use unofficial or unmarked taxis or car services not booked through a recognized app. 

Public and commercial transportation

Public transit is cheap but may be unreliable, uncomfortable, or unsafe.

• Minibuses, called "marshrutkas," are often overcrowded, poorly maintained, lack seat belts, and are often in accidents.  U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from riding in marshrutkas.
• Visit the website of Georgian National Tourism Agency and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Air travel

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Georgia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.

FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Georgia should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Flooding

Flooding after heavy rainfall is not uncommon in Georgia, particularly in Western Georgia near the Rioni and Enguri river basins, as well as in urban areas such as Tbilisi.  The risk of flooding is highest from May to September.

Landslides and mudflows

These occur during heavy rain from April to August.  Mountainous areas have the highest risk.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes can occur year-round.  The entire country is at risk, especially the Tbilisi region and the Caucasus mountains.

Severe winter weather

Heavy snow and avalanches may occur from December to February in mountainous regions like Svaneti and Racha.

• Emergency Management Service of Georgia: Coordinates disaster response and public safety. 
• National Environmental Agency: Issues weather forecasts and hazard warnings.
• Seismic Monitoring Center: Tracks earthquake activity and provides safety information.
• Local Municipalities: Offer community-level support and information.

For up-to-date alerts and guidance, monitor official government websites and local news outlets.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits. 

Embassies and consulates