GEORGIA
Travel to Europe and Georgia with a unique and flexible plan tailored just for me.

Things to know about traveling to Georgia.

Cash, cards and currency exchange

The currency of Georgia is the Georgian Lari (GEL).
In urban areas, credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, and AMEX are common) can be used without any issues. A minimal amount of cash is sufficient. It is recommended to bring US dollars or euros from Japan and exchange them locally.

Tips

Tipping is not a common practice. Leaving a small gratuity for good service at hotels or restaurants is sufficient.
In some services aimed at foreigners, tipping may be requested.

Public Safety

In 2023, the crime rate per capita was about twice that of Japan, but statistically, it cannot be said that Georgia is extremely unsafe compared to Japan.
However, in the capital city of Tbilisi, there have been incidents of pickpocketing and street robberies by groups of minors targeting foreign tourists. As it cannot be considered completely safe, take precautions such as avoiding drawing attention to yourself, not carrying large amounts of cash, avoiding going out at night, and staying away from deserted areas.

Clothing

If you visit areas along the Caspian Sea or the Black Sea, the climate is mild, and you can dress comfortably, similar to how you would in Tokyo.
The further inland you go, the greater the seasonal temperature differences, with summer exceeding 30°C and winter dropping below freezing. Appropriate sun protection and winter clothing are necessary. It is advisable to check the weather forecast for your destination. If you are heading to the northern mountainous regions, prepare for snow and other conditions.

Things You Should Bring

Multi-plug, regular medication, mobile battery, travel insurance, jacket

Visa availability and arrangements

Japanese nationals entering Georgia for stays of less than one year are exempt from obtaining a visa, regardless of their activities in Georgia. However, their passport must be valid for at least six months upon entry and remain valid until their planned return date.
For long-term stays exceeding one year, it is necessary to obtain a visa in advance from the Georgian Embassy in Japan or similar institutions. Additionally, after entering Georgia, you must obtain a residence permit from the Ministry of Justice office that oversees your residential area.

Required vaccinations

There are no unconditional requirements for travel.
If traveling from countries in Africa where there is still a risk of poliovirus, a vaccination certificate is required. If you do not have proof, vaccination at the border is mandatory.
If traveling near the Azerbaijani border in the eastern region between June and October, malaria vaccination is recommended.