Georgia Business Registration Guide 2026
Registering a business in Georgia is one of the fastest and simplest processes in the world. Company formation is handled by the National Agency of Public Registry (NAPR). The main business structures are the Limited Liability Company (LLC/SRL) and the Joint Stock Company (JSC). Registration typically takes 1–3 days and costs as little as GEL 100–200 in government fees. Georgia ranks among the top countries globally for ease of doing business.
Overview — Business Registration in Georgia
The National Agency of Public Registry (NAPR) under the Ministry of Justice is responsible for company registration and business name registration in Georgia. The registration process is fully electronic through the NAPR online portal (www.napr.gov.ge). Georgia consistently ranks among the top countries in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business index for starting a business, with registration times of 1–3 days and minimal capital requirements. After company registration, the company must register for tax with the Georgia Revenue Service (GRS) to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). Georgia does not restrict foreign ownership — 100% foreign ownership is permitted in most sectors.
Company Types
Georgia offers several business structures for investors:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC / SRL) — most common structure, minimum 1 shareholder, no minimum capital requirement, shareholders' liability limited to their contributions. Managed by a director (may be a foreign national). Suitable for most businesses including startups, trading companies, and holding companies.
- Joint Stock Company (JSC) — used for larger enterprises, minimum capital GEL 50,000, shares may be publicly traded. Requires a supervisory board and executive board. Suitable for companies seeking public investment.
- Branch of a foreign company — allows a foreign company to operate in Georgia without incorporating a separate legal entity. The branch is not a separate legal entity; the foreign parent is liable for its obligations.
- Individual entrepreneur (sole proprietorship) — simplest form for self-employed individuals. Register with GRS as a sole proprietor.
Incorporation Process — Step by Step
The LLC incorporation process in Georgia typically involves the following steps:
- Step 1 — Choose company name — check availability on the NAPR portal. Name must be unique and end with "LLC" or equivalent.
- Step 2 — Prepare documents — Charter (Articles of Association), founder's decision, and director appointment. Templates are available on the NAPR portal.
- Step 3 — Submit online — file all documents through the NAPR portal or in person at a Public Service Hall. Pay the registration fee online.
- Step 4 — Certificate of Registration — NAPR issues the registration certificate and TIN (for tax) within 1–3 business days.
- Step 5 — Open bank account — use the registration documents to open a corporate bank account. Most major banks offer online account opening.
The total government fee for LLC registration is approximately GEL 100–200. With professional service fees (lawyer/consultant), total costs are typically GEL 300–800. No minimum capital is required for LLCs.
Tax Registration — GRS TIN
Upon incorporation, NAPR automatically provides the company with a TIN and registers it with GRS for corporate tax purposes. The company must separately register for:
- VAT — if annual turnover will exceed GEL 100,000
- PAYE withholding — if the company will employ staff
- Property tax — if the company owns real estate
Tax registration is completed through the GRS portal (www.rs.ge) using the company's TIN. The process is fully electronic. There is no fee for tax registration. Companies must file annual CIT returns by April 1, even if no tax is due.
FAQs
Can a foreigner register a company in Georgia?
Yes, there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of Georgian companies. The shareholder, director, and beneficial owner may all be foreign nationals. No minimum capital is required. The director does not need to be a Georgia resident.
How long does the full registration process take?
Company registration at NAPR: 1–3 business days. Bank account opening: 1–5 business days. Total: 2–8 business days. Georgia is consistently ranked among the fastest jurisdictions for company formation globally.
What are the annual compliance requirements for a Georgian company?
Annual tax return to GRS (filed by April 1), annual financial statements to NAPR (filed by October 1), monthly VAT returns (if registered), and monthly withholding tax returns (if employing staff). Financial statements must be prepared in accordance with IFRS or Georgian standards.
Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about business registration in Georgia for 2026. Laws, fees, and procedures may change. Always consult with a qualified Georgian corporate lawyer or the National Agency of Public Registry for advice specific to your situation. InvestmentKit does not provide legal advice.