Georgia: Authorities ease COVID-19 business and international travel restrictions Feb. 1 /update 27

Authorities in Georgia ease COVID-19-related restrictions on business and international travel, Feb. 1. Numerous restrictions remain.

Event

Authorities have eased some of the restrictions imposed to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Feb. 1. International commercial air travel is now permitted; however, land and maritime borders remain restricted. Returning Georgian residents must either present proof of a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure or self-isolate for eight days; a test may be taken three days after arrival at the traveler's expense. Most foreign nationals must present a vaccination certificate to immigration officials; any recognized COVID-19 vaccine qualifies. Residents of EU countries, as well as Bahrain, the UAE, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the USA, and Switzerland, need not present a vaccination certificate but must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to departure and take a second test at their own expense within three days of their arrival. There is no longer any requirement for foreign nationals arriving by air to self-isolate for any period.

Authorities have also eased several domestic restrictions, effective Feb. 1. Shopping malls and nonessential stores are permitted to reopen nationwide. Public transport has resumed in Batumi, Zugdidi, Gori, Poti, and Telavi; however, it remains suspended in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Rustavi. Intercity transport remains limited and all public transport will be suspended on weekends through February. Schools, excluding kindergartens and tertiary education, have resumed in Batumi, Zugdidi, Gori, Poti, and Telavi; all levels of education are expected to resume nationwide by March 1.

A nationwide 2100-0500 curfew remains in effect until at least March 1; residents may only leave their accommodation for essential purposes during the effective period. The following additional measures are in effect:

Facemasks are mandatory in enclosed public spaces and on public transport nationwide.
Social gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.
Restaurants are limited to delivery services only.
Gyms and leisure centers are closed.

All restrictions are subject to amendment at short notice in response to government reviews and could receive updates or extensions in the coming days.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.