Georgia has announced that it will raise the minimum real estate investment required to qualify for a temporary residence permit from USD 100,000 to USD 150,000, effective March 1, 2026. The change follows immigration law amendments passed in June 2025 and marks the third increase in the program’s history.
Overview
Since 2019, Georgia has offered a temporary residence pathway to foreign nationals who purchase non‑agricultural real estate valued at a minimum of USD 100,000, as verified by an accredited appraiser. The permit is renewable annually and extends to the applicant’s spouse and children under the same investment.
Beginning March 1:
- All new applicants must meet the USD 150,000 minimum real estate valuation requirement.
- Individuals seeking to qualify under the current USD 100,000 threshold must complete their property purchase before the deadline.
- Existing residence permit holders may continue renewing under the old rules as long as they maintain ownership of the qualifying property.
According to additional guidance, the valuation will continue to be based on the market value, not the purchase price, and multiple properties may be combined to reach the required threshold.
Part of Broader Immigration Reforms
The increase is part of a wider set of reforms aimed at:
- Aligning residence pathways with economic contribution levels
- Improving regulation of Georgia’s labor market
- Strengthening security screening and compliance requirements
- Addressing gaps between high volumes of foreign arrivals and low formal labor registrations.
Georgia has also recently introduced requirements such as mandatory work permits for foreign employees and tighter oversight of foreign nationals residing or working in the country.
Implications
For New Applicants
Individuals pursuing residency through real estate investment should act before March 1, 2026 if they intend to qualify under the existing USD 100,000 threshold.
For Existing Permit Holders
Holders with permits based on USD 100,000+ property may continue renewing under the same valuation rules, provided ownership is maintained.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.