Georgia

Hoodlum Film Fixers has a proven track record of delivering expert film production services in Georgia. We have partnered with major international productions for Netflix, Lifetime Entertainment, and many more, successfully executing complex shoots from the ground up with dedicated on-the-ground support across the country.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Georgia

Capital

Tbilisi.

Main Cities

Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Rustavi.

Local Languages

Georgian (official); Abkhaz in Abkhazia; Russian widely spoken.

Currency

Georgian Lari (GEL).

Climate

Varied

General Visa Requirements:

Citizens of more than 95 countries — including the United States, Canada, Australia, all EU member states, and the UK — can enter Georgia visa-free for up to 365 days. EU and Swiss citizens can also enter using their national ID cards without a passport.

Required Documents:

For e-Visa applicants:

Valid passport (must be the same passport used for travel)
Recent passport-sized photograph
Proof of accommodation in Georgia
Return or onward flight ticket
Travel insurance
Proof of financial means
Completed online application form

For film crews additionally:

Letter from production company confirming role and shoot dates
Copy of film permit (once obtained)
Detailed shooting schedule

Visa Application Process:

Visit the official Georgian government e-Visa portal at evisa.gov.ge — avoid third-party sites that charge higher fees for the same service. Select your citizenship to confirm eligibility, fill in your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport, and upload the required documents. Once approved, the e-Visa is issued digitally by email.

For nationalities requiring embassy visas, apply at the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

Application link:

https://www.evisa.gov.ge/geovisa/en/VisaApp

Processing Time:

Standard processing: 7–10 working days. Rush/accelerated processing: 5–7 working days. Super-rush/urgent processing: 5 working days. Allow additional time when applying through an embassy or consulate.

Cost:

Standard processing: base visa fee (varies by nationality). Rush processing: base fee + $59 priority charge. Super-rush processing: base fee + $99 express charge. Visa-free nationals: no fee applicable. Check the official e-Visa portal at evisa.gov.ge for the exact fee based on your nationality.

Accreditation Requirements:

Georgia does not operate a mandatory formal accreditation system for international film crews. International and local productions must be registered as legal entities in Georgia to access the tax incentive programme, but for general filming purposes accreditation requirements are minimal.

The Georgian National Film Center (GNFC) has established a Film Commission unit specifically aimed at attracting international film producers to the country and supporting international producers interested in shooting in Georgia. International productions are encouraged to register their project with the GNFC, which facilitates coordination with public authorities and supports the permit process.

Hoodlum recommends contacting the GNFC at the earliest stage of production planning to register your project and receive support throughout the process.

Required Documents:

For GNFC project registration and production support:

Production company details and proof of incorporation
Letter of intent or production contract
Script or project synopsis
Detailed shooting schedule and intended locations
Full crew list with roles and nationalities
Proof of liability insurance
Copy of valid passports for key crew members

For productions accessing the tax incentive programme, additionally:

Proof of Georgian legal entity registration
Detailed production budget
Distribution or release plan

Processing Time:

Permits to shoot in public spaces, streets, tunnels, and blocking scenes can usually be secured within 24–48 hours. GNFC project registration is typically processed within 5–7 working days. Allow additional time for shoots in sensitive locations such as heritage sites, cathedrals, and monasteries, which require advance application.

Cost:

There is no fee for registering a production with the Georgian National Film Center. Filming permit fees vary by location and scale — contact the GNFC directly for current rates.

Issuing Organization:

Film permits in Georgia are issued by multiple authorities depending on the location and nature of the shoot:

Tbilisi City Hall — Department of Urban Development The primary issuing body for filming permits in the capital. Handles street closures, public space permits, and large-scale productions in Tbilisi.

Website: tbilisi.gov.ge
Email: info@tbilisi.gov.ge

Georgian National Film Center (GNFC) Coordinates and supports the permit process for international productions, liaising with relevant authorities on the production's behalf.

Website: gnfc.ge
Email: info@gnfc.ge
Phone: +995 32 299 92 00

Local Municipal Authorities Outside Tbilisi, permits are issued by the relevant regional or municipal authority. Hoodlum manages this coordination on your behalf.

Required Documents:

Completed permit application form
Production company details and proof of registration
Script or project synopsis and storyboard
Detailed shooting schedule with specific locations and dates
Full crew and equipment list
Proof of liability insurance (minimum coverage varies by location)
Site plan or map of filming area
Police coordination request (for street closures or crowd control)
Written permission from property owners for any private locations used

Processing Time:

Permits to shoot in public spaces, streets, tunnels, and blocking scenes can usually be secured within 24–48 hours. For larger projects requiring street closures, a 3-day permit is readily available with assistance from local production in navigating the permit process and coordinating with authorities for traffic control. Filming within sacred sites such as cathedrals and monasteries is possible with proper permits, though advanced application is recommended due to longer processing times. Allow 5–10 working days for heritage and sensitive location permits.

Cost:

Costs for filming in Georgia are relatively low and it is easy to get crew, local talent and location permits. Basic public space permits are low cost. Fees increase for larger productions requiring street closures, traffic management, or police coordination. Contact Hoodlum or the GNFC directly for current fee schedules based on your specific shoot requirements.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Georgia's geography offers an impressive variety of backdrops within short travel distances. In just a few hours, production teams can move from dramatic mountain peaks in Kazbegi to arid desert plains near David Gareja, or from the vibrant cobblestoned streets of Tbilisi to lush vineyards in the Kakheti region. UNESCO

Private locations are secured through direct negotiation with property owners. Hoodlum manages the full process including location scouting, site visits, technical assessment, photography, negotiation, and execution of a written location agreement.

Filming on private property requires a location agreement signed by the owner. This agreement should cover filming dates and hours, crew access arrangements, exclusivity, liability, and agreed location fees. West Georgia University

Key considerations for private locations in Georgia:

Religious sites such as cathedrals and monasteries require advance applications and are subject to specific conduct requirements on set
Heritage and protected buildings may require additional approval from the Ministry of Culture
Rural and mountain locations may require coordination with local community authorities
Liability insurance is required for all private location shoots

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Costs for filming in Georgia are relatively low compared to Western European and North American markets. Private location fees are negotiated directly with property owners and vary considerably depending on the property type, exclusivity, and shoot duration.

Typical ranges:

Residential properties: USD 100–500 per day
Commercial premises: USD 200–800 per day
Heritage buildings and estates: USD 300–1,500 per day
Religious sites (cathedrals, monasteries): Fee varies — advance contact required
Industrial or large-scale locations: Negotiated case by case

All fees are negotiated directly with owners. Hoodlum handles all negotiations and location agreements on your behalf.

Drone Regulations:

Drone operations in Georgia are regulated by the Civil Aviation Agency of Georgia (GCAA), the primary authority responsible for drone registration, licensing, and operational rules.

Georgia has adopted rules in line with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), meaning flights are divided into three categories — Open, Specific, and Certified — and remote pilots can prove their knowledge through licences.

Key operational rules:

Drones weighing less than 250 grams are exempt from most regulation
Maximum altitude of 400 feet (120 metres) above any physical terrain or body of water
The Pilot in Command must always maintain direct visual contact with the drone without assistance
Horizontal separation of at least 6 kilometres from any aerodrome is required
Avoid flying drones over structures, crowds, busy intersections, or high-tension power lines
Flying a drone over public or private property for aerial photography without authorisation is illegal
No flights over restricted, prohibited, or dangerous areas without prior authorisation — Check airspace.gov.ge for no-fly zones

For commercial work such as filming, surveying, or promotional projects, the GCAA requires proof of competence and a specific operational authorisation, involving submission of a safety plan, flight details, and insurance documents. FilmInGeorgiaToday

Drone Importation Regulations:

Tourists and international crews are generally allowed to bring consumer drones into Georgia. At customs, officers may ask to see equipment and in rare cases request proof of registration or intended use. FilmInGeorgiaToday

Recommended steps when importing a drone into Georgia:

Carry the drone in a protective case with all accessories clearly visible
Keep lithium batteries in hand luggage in line with airline requirements
Carry documentation of the drone's serial number, make, and model
Have proof of intended commercial use (production letter or permit application) ready
Ensure you have the paperwork needed to register or apply for permits once inside Georgia

There is currently no ATA Carnet requirement for drones in Georgia, but Hoodlum recommends carrying full equipment documentation to avoid delays at customs.

Permit Issuance:

A permit is required for all commercial drone use in Georgia. Applications are submitted to the GCAA — the Georgian Civil Aviation Authority. Drone Laws

For operations that differ from standard open category conditions, the operator must contact the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency and request a special permission by contacting flightstandards@gcaa.ge. Pilot Institute

Required information for permit application:

Drone make, model, weight, and serial number
Pilot identity and proof of competence
Detailed flight plan including specific locations and dates
Risk assessment with adequate mitigating measures
Proof of liability insurance
Purpose of flight and production details

All drones must be registered via the GCAA's online platform at uas.gov.ge, and the user registration number must be labelled on the exterior of the drone before flying. UAV Coach

GCAA Contact:

Website: gcaa.ge
Email: office@gcaa.ge | flightstandards@gcaa.ge
Airspace map: airspace.gov.ge
Registration portal: uas.gov.ge
Phone: +995 32 2 94 80 14

Timing:

Customs clearance for drones brought into Georgia is generally straightforward and processed on arrival with no significant delays, provided all documentation is in order.

Commercial visitors should plan well in advance, as processing of the GCAA operational authorisation can take several days. Hoodlum recommends allowing a minimum of 5–7 working days for commercial drone permit approval prior to your first shoot day.

For shoots in restricted airspace or near heritage sites, allow additional time and contact the GCAA directly at the earliest opportunity.

Cost:

Commercial use of drones is permitted in Georgia. Drone insurance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended.

Current fee guidance:

GCAA drone registration: Low-cost administrative fee — confirm current rate at uas.gov.ge
Commercial operational authorisation: Fee varies depending on operation category and scope — contact GCAA directly at flightstandards@gcaa.ge
Drone insurance: Not legally required but recommended for all commercial productions — arrange through your production insurer before travel
Customs/import duties: No significant import duties reported for temporary equipment importation for film productions

Overall drone costs in Georgia are low compared to most European filming destinations. Hoodlum manages all GCAA registrations, permit applications, and coordination on your behalf.

Carnet Status:

Georgia is not a full ATA Carnet member country. However, Georgia offers temporary admission for film equipment, minimising bureaucratic delays and costs associated with imports. In most cases, customs procedures for film gear are straightforward. LegalClarity

Temporary importation procedures allow for the use of foreign goods imported into the customs territory of Georgia for return in an unaltered state, with total or partial exemption from import charges and without being subjected to trade policy measures for a certain period.

Productions bringing equipment from ATA Carnet member countries should carry their Carnet document regardless, as Georgian customs may accept it as supporting documentation. Hoodlum recommends confirming current acceptance with the Revenue Service of Georgia prior to travel.

Required Documents:

Detailed equipment list with make, model, serial number, and value for each item
Commercial invoices for all equipment
Packing lists
Certificates of origin
Proof of temporary importation purpose (production letter, shoot schedule, permit)
Proof of production company registration
Return itinerary confirming equipment will be re-exported after production
Passport copies of crew members responsible for equipment
ATA Carnet document if applicable from country of origin

Issuing Organization:

Revenue Service of Georgia — Ministry of Finance The primary authority administering customs procedures and temporary importation in Georgia.

Website: rs.ge
Address: 2 Gudamakari Street, Tbilisi, Georgia

Georgian Customs at Port of Entry Customs clearance is processed directly at the border crossing or airport of entry. Tbilisi International Airport is the primary entry point for most international film productions.

Hoodlum coordinates all equipment importation documentation and liaises with Georgian customs on your behalf to ensure smooth clearance on arrival.

Timing:

Customs procedures for film gear are straightforward and clearance is typically processed on arrival at the port of entry with minimal delays, provided all documentation is complete and in order. Allow 1–3 working days for clearance if shipping equipment in advance by freight. For equipment carried by crew as accompanied baggage, clearance is generally same-day at Tbilisi International Airport.

Cost:

A fee of approximately $5.60 (5 GEL) is charged per customs declaration for goods valued below $1,111 (3,000 GEL), and approximately $67 (60 GEL) for goods valued above 3,000 GEL. Temporary importation of professional film equipment is generally exempt from import duties provided the equipment is re-exported after production. VAT exemption applies to temporarily imported goods. No significant additional fees are expected for standard film production equipment. Hoodlum provides full guidance on current fee schedules based on your specific equipment manifest.

General Overview:

Georgia is a safe country to visit. The overall crime rate is low and incidents involving foreigners are rare. The government continues to strengthen safety measures, especially in popular areas like Tbilisi and Batumi.

Georgia ranks among the most secure destinations in the Caucasus region. Tbilisi and Eastern Georgia maintain excellent security standards with visible police presence in tourist districts, and violent crime rates affecting visitors remain exceptionally low. Georgia Department of Economic Development

Official travel advisories issued by the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada do not advise against travel to Georgia as a whole. Instead they recommend exercising normal caution, with emphasis on staying informed about protests, avoiding demonstrations, and taking care on the roads.

Regions to avoid: Do not travel to the Russian-occupied Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to risk of crime, civil unrest, and landmines. Russian troops and border guards occupy both regions, and the precise locations of administrative boundary lines are difficult to identify. Entering these areas could lead to arrest, imprisonment, or a fine.

Areas near the borders with Russia and Azerbaijan can experience occasional tensions. Productions should stick to well-established areas and follow the advice of local authorities.

Security Requirements:

Georgia does not impose mandatory security requirements for international film productions. However Hoodlum recommends the following standard measures for all shoots:

On-set security

On-set security personnel recommended for large productions or shoots in busy public areas
Equipment security officer recommended when working with high-value camera and lighting gear in public locations

Equipment storage

Use hotel safes or secure lockable storage for portable equipment overnight
Avoid leaving equipment unattended in vehicles, particularly in urban areas
Maintain a detailed equipment manifest at all times

Location safety

Petty theft occurs primarily in crowded transport hubs and markets — standard urban precautions apply in busy areas of Tbilisi
Police permits required for all public area filming involving street closures or crowd management
For mountain and remote location shoots, engage local guides familiar with terrain and weather conditions
Weather in the Caucasus changes rapidly, and trails in regions like Svaneti or Kazbegi can be challenging — always plan for contingencies on mountain shoots

Emergency contacts

Police: 112
Emergency services: 112
Tourist Police Tbilisi: +995 32 2 29 22 29

Hoodlum provides full on-the-ground safety coordination, local liaison, and emergency support for all productions filming in Georgia.

Rebates/Incentives:

General Overview

In 2016 Enterprise Georgia introduced the "Film in Georgia" programme, a joint initiative of the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia and the Ministry of Culture and Monuments Protection of Georgia. The programme offers a 20–25% cash rebate on qualified expenses incurred in Georgia, with the primary objective of supporting the development of Georgia's film industry and attracting international filmmakers to the country.

The base rebate of 20% is paid first. The beneficiary then has one year to complete an additional 2–5% based on the Cultural Test, which rewards productions that promote Georgia as a destination.

International and local productions must be registered as legal entities in Georgia. Eligible project types include feature films, TV films, TV series and mini-series (including pilot episodes), animation, documentary films, commercials, reality shows, and music videos.

If the production qualifies for the rebate, a refund of up to 1,000,000 GEL is approved automatically. Projects requesting a higher rebate require special approval from the Government of Georgia. Production in Georgia must be completed within 24 months of acceptance to the rebate programme.

Security Requirements

Minimum Spend Requirements:

Feature films, TV series, and mini-series require a minimum local expenditure of GEL 500,000 (approximately USD 185,000). Documentaries, commercials, and other qualifying formats require a minimum local expenditure of GEL 300,000 (approximately USD 110,000)

Cultural Test — Additional 2–5% Uplift:

To qualify for the additional uplift, projects must meet the programme's Cultural Test:

1% — The production is completed and released theatrically or on a major television network, and a "Making-of" video is produced that showcases the Georgian shoot

Additional Cultural Test points are awarded for use of Georgian crew, local facilities, Georgian locations, and content that promotes Georgia as a destination. Productions scoring higher on the Cultural Test qualify for the full 5% uplift on top of the base 20% rebate.

Key Eligibility Conditions:

Production company must be registered as a legal entity in Georgia
At least 50% of the total production budget must be in place at the time of application
All expenses must be directly related to the filmmaking process to qualify
Feature films and TV series must achieve audience coverage in at least 3 countries outside Georgia
A contract is signed between the beneficiary and Enterprise Georgia upon successful application

Eligible Expenses include: Georgian crew wages, location fees, equipment rental, accommodation, catering, post-production services completed in Georgia, and VFX.

Administered by: Enterprise Georgia

Website: enterprisegeorgia.gov.ge
Programme page: enterprisegeorgia.gov.ge/en/business-development/filmingeorgia
Email: info@enterprisegeorgia.gov.ge

Meet our Local Team

Georgia

Ana

An experienced journalist, producer and fixer specializing in documentaries and current affairs. Ana has worked on productions for Vice News, international broadcasters and documentary teams, securing high-profile interviews, conducting in-depth investigations, and managing complex productions in challenging environments.

Ana

Nika

Nika is a highly experienced fixer and local producer with over 15 years in the film and television industry. His credits span reality formats, documentaries and branded content, including Race Across the World (BBC), Somebody Feed Phil (Netflix), and productions for National Geographic, Al Jazeera and Bloomberg.

Nika

Client Brief

Fill in our client brief and we’ll get back to you with everything you need to start filming in this region.

Services We Provide in Georgia

Accommodation

Airport Protocol & On-Ground Support

Casting & Talent

Catering

Crew Sourcing

Customs Clearance

Drone & Aerial Permits

Drone & Drone Operator

Equipment Rentals

Film Permits

Line Producers & Production Management

Local Film Fixers

Locations / RECCE’s

Logistics

Rebates & Incentives

Research

Risk Management

Security

Set Dressing / Production Design

Transport & Vehicles

Visas & Work Permits

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The Overview

Filming in Georgia: The Complete Production Guide for International Film Crews (2024–2025)

Meta Title: Filming in Georgia | Complete Film Production Guide 2024–2025 Meta Description: Everything you need to know about filming in Georgia — visa requirements, film permits, drone permits, tax rebates, locations, crew accreditation, equipment customs, and more. Updated for 2024–2025. Focus Keyword: Filming in Georgia Secondary Keywords: Georgia film permit, Georgia film rebate, filming locations Georgia, international film production Georgia, Georgia filming guide Slug: filming-in-georgia

Why Film in Georgia?

Georgia, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia in the South Caucasus, has rapidly become one of the world’s most compelling and cost-effective film production destinations. The country has hosted major international productions including Fast & Furious 9, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (Marvel/Disney+), and Warrior (Cinemax), drawn by its film-friendly government, experienced local crews, and production costs typically 40–60% lower than Western Europe.

Key reasons to choose Georgia:

Versatile landscapes: Ancient fortified cities, alpine mountains, subtropical coastline, semi-arid steppe, and medieval cave monasteries — all within a few hours’ drive. The country can double for Russia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, or fantasy worlds, making it one of the most location-flexible destinations available to international productions.
Government support: The Georgian National Film Center (GNFC) and the “Film in Georgia” programme offer cash rebates of up to 25% on qualifying in-country spend, making it one of the most financially competitive production destinations in the broader European region.
Skilled local crew: Tbilisi and Batumi have a growing base of DoPs, production designers, art directors, gaffers, grips, location managers, and experienced extras — many with international co-production experience and strong English.
Ease of entry: Citizens of 90+ countries, including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia, can enter visa-free for up to one year — dramatically simplifying crew logistics compared to many competing destinations.
Affordable production costs: Crew day rates, location fees, accommodation, catering, and transport locally typically run 40–60% lower than equivalent costs in Western Europe, without any compromise in production quality.

Languages Spoken in Georgia

Georgian (ქართული) is the official language, using its own unique Mkhedruli script — unrelated to any other writing system in the world. Russian is widely spoken among older generations and in rural areas, and continues to function as a useful lingua franca across different communities. Azerbaijani and Armenian are spoken in minority regions in the east and south respectively.

English is increasingly common among Georgians under 35, particularly in Tbilisi and Batumi, and is the standard working language across the local film and creative industries. Most professional film crew members in the capital communicate effectively in English. For rural or mountain shoots, hire a bilingual local fixer or coordinator to assist with community communication, location negotiations, and permit conversations with local authorities.

Best Time to Film in Georgia

Season	Temperatures	Best For
Spring (Mar–May)	10–22°C / 50–72°F	Dramas, commercials, nature docs, travel content
Summer (Jun–Aug)	25–35°C / 77–95°F	Action, adventure, mountain and coastal shoots
Autumn (Sep–Nov)	8–20°C / 46–68°F	Dramas, harvest scenes, cinematic landscape work
Winter (Dec–Feb)	-2–8°C / 28–46°F	Winter sports, thrillers, dark dramas

Spring and autumn are generally considered the most cinematically rewarding seasons, offering ideal temperatures, beautiful light, and accessible mountain locations. Summer provides up to 16 hours of daylight and full access to high-altitude locations. Winter delivers snow-covered medieval towers and working ski resorts (Gudauri, Bakuriani) but short shooting days.

Key events worth scheduling around: Tbilisi International Film Festival (December), Batumi International Film Festival (September), Rtveli grape harvest (September–October, Kakheti), and Tbilisoba city festival (October).

Top Filming Locations in Georgia

Tbilisi

The capital is one of Europe’s most visually distinctive cities. Its layered history — Persian, Ottoman, Russian Imperial, Soviet, and contemporary — creates an unusually rich visual environment that few other cities can match. Key areas include the Old Town (Kala) with its ornate wooden balconies and sulphur bathhouses, the grand Rustaveli Avenue boulevard lined with neo-classical architecture, the Narikala Fortress overlooking the Mtkvari River Gorge, and the repurposed Soviet-era Fabrika creative hub popular for contemporary and music video productions. The Abanotubani bathhouse district and the colourful Agmashenebeli Avenue offer further period and architectural variety. Tbilisi can double convincingly for Iran, Ottoman Turkey, Eastern Europe, or the Soviet era.

Kazbegi and the Georgian Military Highway

The S3 highway running north from Tbilisi to the Russian border is one of the most cinematic roads in the world. The Gergeti Trinity Church — a 14th-century Orthodox church at 2,170m with Mount Kazbek (5,047m) behind it — is one of the most filmed locations in the Caucasus. The Dariali Gorge and Ananuri Fortress (reflected in a turquoise reservoir) are also essential stops for car commercials and action productions.

Svaneti

Remote, high-altitude, and visually extraordinary, Svaneti is home to medieval Svan tower-houses dating from the 9th–13th centuries. Mestia and Ushguli (a UNESCO World Heritage village at 2,200m, one of Europe’s highest inhabited settlements) offer unmatched alpine and cultural scenery accessible in summer.

Kakheti — Wine Country

The wine heartland offers rolling vine-covered hills, semi-arid canyon landscapes, and ancient fortified monasteries. The David Gareja Monastery Complex, carved into a cliff face on the semi-desert border with Azerbaijan, creates otherworldly visuals reminiscent of the Middle East or Central Asia. Signagi (hilltop town with Caucasus panoramas) and Alaverdi Cathedral (11th century) are also popular production locations.

Batumi and the Adjara Coast

This Black Sea resort city blends Soviet seafront promenades, Ottoman old-town streets, and dramatic modern architecture. The 6km Batumi Boulevard is ideal for lifestyle and travel content. The subtropical Mtirala National Park just outside the city offers dense rainforest scenery unique in the region.

Cave Cities and Ancient Monuments

Uplistsikhe (an Iron Age rock-cut city near Gori), Vardzia (a 12th-century cave monastery carved into a cliff face with hundreds of rooms), and Mtskheta (the ancient capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site 20km from Tbilisi) round out the country’s extraordinary roster of heritage filming locations.

Currency and Payment in Georgia

The official currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL / ₾). Current approximate exchange rates:

Currency	Approximate GEL Rate
1 USD	2.7–2.9 GEL
1 EUR	2.9–3.2 GEL
1 GBP	3.4–3.7 GEL

Always confirm live rates with the National Bank of Georgia. Exchange at TBC Bank or Bank of Georgia for the best rates; avoid hotel exchange desks which typically offer the least favourable rates. ATMs are widely available in cities but limited in remote areas — carry sufficient GEL cash for rural and mountain shoots. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger retailers in Tbilisi and Batumi. For larger production payments, local bank transfers are standard — your line producer can advise on setting up a GEL account for day-to-day operational expenses.

Visa Requirements for Film Crews

The country operates one of the world’s most open visa policies. Citizens of 90+ countries — including all EU member states, the US, UK, Canada, and Australia — can enter visa-free for up to 365 days. A full and current list is published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.

Citizens of countries not on the visa-free list can apply for a e-Visa through evisa.gov.ge, available for tourism and business purposes, typically processed within 5 working days. If your crew requires visa support, our film production fixer services in Georgia can provide official invitation letters and guide you through the process.

Important for African crew members: Most African nationals require a visa or e-Visa, and an official invitation letter from a local legal entity is often required as part of the application. Allow 3–4 weeks minimum for processing to account for potential delays — do not leave this until the last minute.

Standard visa documents required:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond the intended stay)
Completed online visa application form
Passport-sized photograph (colour, white background)
Proof of visa application fee payment
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or rental agreement)
Return flight itinerary
Travel health insurance covering the full stay
Bank statement (proof of financial means)
Invitation letter from a local entity (where required)

Crew Accreditation in Georgia

All non-local nationals working professionally on a production must obtain accreditation through the Georgian National Film Center (GNFC). Applications are typically submitted in batch by the local production company or fixer.

Required documents per crew member: passport copy, proof of employment/contract, travel health insurance, passport photograph.

Processing time: 5–10 working days | Cost: approximately $35–$50 USD per person

Submit accreditation applications at least 3–4 weeks before the shoot start date.

Film Permits in Georgia

There is no single national film permit. Permits are issued location-by-location by the relevant authority:

Georgian National Agency of Cultural Heritage Preservation — required for filming at protected heritage sites (Mtskheta, Vardzia, Narikala, David Gareja, Ananuri, Gelati, etc.). Processing: 1–3 weeks.
Tbilisi City Hall / Municipal Authorities — required for filming on public streets, squares, or road closures. Processing: 2–5 working days.
Ministry of Internal Affairs — required when filming involves police, military, or activity in border zones. Processing: 5–14 working days.
Agency of Protected Areas — required for national parks and nature reserves (Kazbegi, Lagodekhi, Mtirala). Processing: 3–10 working days.

Standard permit documents: application form, script/scene breakdown, location list with GPS coordinates, shoot schedule, crew list, equipment list, and liability insurance certificate.

Begin permit applications at least 4–6 weeks before shoot dates for complex or multi-location productions. A skilled local film fixer in Georgia will manage this entire process on your behalf.

Drone Permits in Georgia

All commercial drone operations here require a Special Flight Permit (SFP) from the Georgian Civil Aviation Agency (GCAA). Any flight connected to a film, television, commercial, or online content production is considered commercial regardless of drone size. Drones over 250g must also be formally registered with the GCAA.

Required documents: SFP application form (from the GCAA website), drone registration certificate, remote pilot licence, third-party liability insurance policy, detailed flight plan and GPS map of the flight area, drone technical specifications (make, model, weight, max altitude), proof of ownership or rental agreement, and pilot ID/passport copy.

Processing time: 5–7 working days (standard) | 2–3 working days (rush, additional fee applies)

No-fly zones include: within 5km of international airports (Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi), active military installations, the Presidential Palace government quarter in Tbilisi, border zones with Russia, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia, and certain protected heritage sites. Always check with the GCAA on a case-by-case basis for heritage locations.

Hire a locally accredited drone operator wherever possible — they will know GCAA procedures, local airspace restrictions, and mountain flying conditions (altitude, wind, temperature) in detail. Always carry printed copies of your SFP and pilot licence on location.

Equipment Customs Clearance

The country is not an ATA Carnet member, which has important implications for how international productions bring professional equipment across the border. Equipment must enter under one of two routes:

Temporary Import Permit (TIP) — issued by the Revenue Service; allows equipment in without import duties for 6–12 months, on condition of re-export at the end of the production.
Tripartite Agreement — a three-way contract between the production company, a local guarantor company (typically your line producer or fixer), and the Revenue Service, backed by a financial guarantee.

Required documents: Customs Declaration Form and a comprehensive equipment list itemising every piece of kit with make, model, serial number, quantity, and estimated replacement value in USD. Bring printed copies — do not rely on digital only.

Clearance at Tbilisi International Airport typically takes 2–6 hours for a well-prepared shipment, but can stretch to 1–3 days if paperwork is incomplete or a physical inspection is triggered. For large freight consignments arriving by air or overland via Turkey or Azerbaijan, engage a local customs broker — your fixer can recommend a trusted one. Keep a copy of the equipment list on set throughout the shoot, as it will be required again for re-export.

Film Rebates and Tax Incentives

The “Film in Georgia” cash rebate programme, administered by Invest in Georgia in partnership with the Georgian National Film Center, offers:

20% cash rebate on qualifying in-country expenditure
Up to 25% for productions meeting additional criteria (higher in-country spend ratio or Georgian cultural content)

Qualifying production types: feature films, TV series, animation, reality TV, and certain large-scale commercials.

Qualifying spend categories: Local crew and cast wages, location fees, equipment rental, production design, post-production, accommodation, catering, and transport — all sourced from local suppliers and invoiced through a registered entity in the country.

Application process in brief:

Register the production company with the Revenue Service
Submit a pre-application to Invest in Georgia with estimated in-country spend
Receive a letter of intent and maintain detailed records of all qualifying expenditure
Submit a final audited expenditure report after production concludes
Receive the cash rebate — typically paid within 60–90 days of final approval

Confirm the current minimum spend threshold with Invest in Georgia before pre-production. The rebate is a cash payment (not a tax credit), making it valuable even for productions with no local tax liability. All qualifying invoices must be in the name of a registered entity.

Safety, Health, and Local Customs

Safety and Security

The main cities are safe and welcoming to international productions. Petty crime exists as in any city — secure equipment when not in use, use locked production vehicles, and consider hiring local security personnel for night shoots or high-value kit. Brief your entire crew on local customs, laws, and no-go zones before arrival. South Ossetia and Abkhazia are under de facto Russian military control — do not attempt to film in or near these territories under any circumstances, and stay well clear of their de facto border lines. For mountain shoots above 2,500m, use local guides, carry appropriate cold-weather gear, and have a clear emergency evacuation plan. Weather in the Greater Caucasus can change with extreme speed.

All productions should carry: comprehensive production insurance (equipment, negative, E&O), third-party liability cover, cast and crew personal accident and medical insurance, vehicle insurance, and drone liability insurance where applicable. Confirm your policy covers the South Caucasus region before departure.

Health

Tbilisi has several international-standard private hospitals and clinics, including Mediclub Georgia (English-language services) and the AVERSI-Rational pharmacy chain with English-speaking staff. For remote mountain shoots in Svaneti, Tusheti, or Kazbegi, have a trained on-set medic and a clear medical evacuation plan — facilities in these areas are minimal. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, and Typhoid for rural shoots. Tap water is generally safe in Tbilisi and Batumi; use bottled water in rural and mountain areas. Bring sufficient supply of any essential prescription medications — not all European or US medications are available locally.

Cultural Considerations

It is a deeply hospitable country. If invited to a supra (traditional feast presided over by a Tamada toastmaster), accepting is a meaningful sign of respect. The majority of the population belongs to the Georgian Orthodox Church — one of the world’s oldest Christian denominations. When filming at churches or monasteries, women must cover their heads (scarves are available at most sites) and all crew must cover knees and shoulders. Never film during an active religious service without specific, explicit permission. Always seek consent before filming individuals in close-up, and never film children without explicit parental permission.

Making even basic efforts with the local language — madloba (thank you), gamarjoba (hello) — is warmly received by crew and community members.

Key public holidays when government offices and permit agencies may be closed: New Year (Jan 1–2), Orthodox Christmas (Jan 7), Epiphany (Jan 19), Independence Day (May 26), and Saint George’s Day (Nov 23). Build these dates into your production calendar.

FAQs About Filming in Georgia

Does Georgia require a national film permit? No. Permits are issued location-by-location by the relevant municipal, heritage, or government authority.

How long do film permits take in Georgia? 2–5 working days for municipal locations; 1–3 weeks for cultural heritage sites. Allow 4–6 weeks for complex multi-location productions.

What is the Film in Georgia rebate? A 20–25% cash rebate on qualifying in-country expenditure for feature films, TV series, animation, and reality TV productions.

Is Georgia an ATA Carnet country? No. Equipment enters under a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) or Tripartite Agreement. A detailed equipment list is essential.

How long does drone permit processing take? 5–7 working days for a standard Special Flight Permit from the GCAA.

Is Georgia safe for international film crews? Yes — the main cities are safe and crew-friendly. Avoid South Ossetia and Abkhazia entirely.

How do I find a fixer or line producer in Georgia? Contact Hoodlum Film Fixers for end-to-end production support. You may also find our guides to filming in South Africa and filming in Morocco useful if you are scouting multiple regions.

Planning a production in Georgia? Contact Hoodlum Film Fixers — we handle everything from location scouting and permits to crew accreditation and rebate applications. Explore our full Where We Work directory for production support across Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

Last updated: 2024 | Region: Georgia (South Caucasus) | Focus keyword: Filming in Georgia