Living in Tbilisi as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Georgia allows citizens from over 100 countries to enter and stay in the country for up to one year without a visa. However, a residency permit must be secured after five days of consecutive residence. Foreigners must have a valid passport, travel insurance, and proof of income or funds covering their living expenses.

Language resources

The majority of the population in Tbilisi speaks Georgian, with Russian and English also widely spoken in the city. Language learning resources are comprehensive, and expatriates can enroll in language courses and attend language exchange events to help them adapt to their new environment.

Housing

The cost of living in Tbilisi is moderate, and finding decent accommodation is relatively easy, as the city has ample housing options available to suit every budget. Rental costs in shared apartments range from 100 to 200 Lari ($34-$70 USD) per month, depending on the location. Single-bedroom apartments start around 400 Lari ($150 USD), while two to three-bedroom apartments can run upwards of 800 Lari ($300 USD) per month. House rentals start from around 1,500 Lari ($565 USD) for a three-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood.

Groceries

Tbilisi's supermarkets are well-stocked and offer a diverse selection of local and imported products. Imported goods are relatively expensive, so it's best to buy local produce to keep costs low. Most food items are affordable, with a basic grocery list consisting of bread, milk, rice, chicken, vegetables, and fruits costing approximately 100 to 200 Lari ($38-$75 USD) per week for a single person.

Transportation

Tbilisi's transportation system is comprehensive, and the cost is low compared to other European cities. A one-way trip on the metro or bus costs 0.6 Lari (around $0.25 USD), while a ten-ride ticket costs 3 Lari ($1.18 USD). Taxis are reasonably priced, and most are equipped with meters that charge from 1 to 1.8 Lari ($0.39-$0.71 USD) per km. Uber, Bolt, and Yandex are also popular choices for getting around the city, and fares usually cost 80 to 150 Lari ($30-$57 USD) for most trips.

Tbilisi's climate is continental, with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures averaging 26°C (79°F). Winters, on the other hand, can be bitterly cold, with an average temperature of 2°C (36°F), frequently dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, and the city experiences ice-covered streets, making it essential to keep warm and savor the crisp winter atmosphere.

Tbilisi's job market is thriving, with a mix of traditional and modern industries. The city is known for its burgeoning tech sector and flourishing creative hubs, drawing a young, innovative crowd. With a low unemployment rate of around 15%, and foreign companies establishing a base in Tbilisi, it's an excellent destination for skilled workers looking for employment opportunities.

The healthcare system in Tbilisi is modern, efficient, and most importantly, affordable. The city has a solid network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers throughout its various neighborhoods, with high-quality medical care readily available. Foreigners can rest easy as English is widely spoken amongst medical professionals in Tbilisi.

Tbilisi's transportation system is impressive, incorporating a metro system, buses, trolleybuses, and trams. The metro is efficient and reliable, with stations located throughout the city. While car ownership is rising, your travel experience can be smooth and comfortable by using the metro and other public transport options.

Tbilisi is generally a safe city for expats, although precautions are essential as in any other urban area. The city's violent crime rate is low, and people should exercise caution in crowded places, such as markets and crowded streets. Most areas are safe, and expats should be wary of pickpocketing and petty theft. Nonetheless, the police force in Tbilisi is efficient and reliable, and English is commonly spoken.