Yes, but you need a visa, passport, and proof of address
Foreign nationals can open a bank account in Georgia, but the process is stricter than it is for Georgian citizens. Most banks require a valid visa or residence permit, a passport, and proof of your current address—usually a utility bill, rental agreement, or letter from your landlord. Some banks also ask for a reference from another bank or a letter from your employer.
The exact requirements vary by bank. TBC Bank, Bank of Georgia, and Silkroad Bank all accept foreign account holders, but each has its own documentation rules. Before you visit a branch, call ahead or check the bank's website to confirm what they need from you specifically. This saves you a trip if you're missing a document.
The process typically takes one to three business days once you submit everything. You'll need to visit a branch in person—banks in Georgia do not open accounts remotely for foreigners. Bring originals of your documents, not copies, because staff will verify them on the spot.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid visa or residence permit; a tourist visa alone is usually not enough, though some banks accept it for short-term accounts.
- Bring your passport, proof of address (utility bill or rental agreement), and ideally a reference from another bank or your employer.
- Visit a branch in person; Georgian banks do not open accounts for foreigners by mail, email, or video call.
- Call the bank before you go to confirm their current requirements, because rules change and vary between branches.
- The account opens within one to three business days if your documents are complete and in order.
What counts as proof of address
Banks in Georgia accept several forms of proof that you live where you say you do. A utility bill (electricity, water, or gas) in your name is the strongest option. A rental agreement signed by you and your landlord works if it is dated and shows your name and the address. A letter from your landlord on their letterhead, stating your name and the address where you rent, is also accepted by most banks.
The document must be recent—usually dated within the last three months. If you just arrived and have not yet received a utility bill, ask your landlord for a letter immediately. Some banks will accept a hotel registration or a letter from your employer stating your work address, but this is less common and depends on the bank. Call ahead to ask whether your specific document will work.
Visa and residence permit requirements
A standard tourist visa is a gray area. Some banks will open an account for someone on a tourist visa if the visa is valid for at least 30 days and you have a Georgian address. Other banks refuse tourist visas outright and require a residence permit or a work visa. The safest approach is to assume you need a residence permit or work visa, then ask the bank whether they make exceptions.
A residence permit (issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs) is the clearest path. If you are working in Georgia, your employer can help you obtain a work visa. If you are a student, your school can sponsor a student visa. These visas are recognized by all banks without question. If you are on a tourist visa and a bank refuses you, try another bank—policies differ.
Which banks accept foreign account holders
TBC Bank, Bank of Georgia, and Silkroad Bank all have English-speaking staff and clear processes for foreign customers. TBC Bank has branches throughout Tbilisi and other cities and tends to be straightforward about documentation. Bank of Georgia is the largest bank in the country and has the most branches, though wait times can be longer. Silkroad Bank is smaller but known for working with international customers.
Smaller regional banks may also accept foreign accounts, but their English-language support is limited and their requirements can be less predictable. If you are staying in a smaller city, ask your landlord or employer which bank they use and whether that bank accepts foreigners. Starting with one of the three major banks is usually faster and less frustrating.
What documents to bring to the bank
| Document | Why you need it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Proof of identity and citizenship | Must be valid. Bring the original, not a copy. |
| Visa or residence permit | Proof you are legally in Georgia | Tourist visa may work at some banks; residence permit is safer. |
| Proof of address | Proof you live in Georgia | Utility bill, rental agreement, or landlord letter, dated within 3 months. |
| Bank reference (optional) | Shows you have banking history elsewhere | Ask your home bank for a letter. Helps if other documents are weak. |
| Employment letter (optional) | Shows you have income and stability | Useful if you are on a work visa or if the bank asks about your purpose. |
Bring originals of everything. Banks will not accept photocopies or scans for the initial opening. Staff will verify your documents on the spot and may ask you to sign forms in front of them. If a document is in a language other than Georgian or English, bring a certified translation—your embassy or a translation service can provide one.
Account types and minimum deposits
Most banks offer a basic checking account (called a current account in Georgia) with no minimum deposit requirement. You can open an account with zero money and deposit funds later. Some banks offer savings accounts or accounts with higher interest rates, but these may have minimum balance requirements—usually 500 to 1,000 Georgian lari (roughly 150 to 300 US dollars, though this varies with exchange rates).
Ask the bank about fees. Monthly maintenance fees are rare for basic accounts, but some banks charge for international transfers, card replacements, or other services. Debit cards are usually free or cost a small one-time fee. If you plan to send money internationally, ask about wire transfer fees and exchange rates before you open the account, because these vary significantly between banks.
After your account opens
Once the account is open, you will receive a debit card within one to two weeks. The card will be mailed to the address you provided, so make sure the bank has the correct address. You can usually start using online banking immediately, even before the card arrives. Most Georgian banks offer mobile apps in English.
If you plan to stay in Georgia long-term, consider setting up direct deposit with your employer. This is faster and cheaper than transferring money manually. If you need to send money to another country, ask the bank about their wire transfer process and fees. Some banks partner with international money transfer services like Wise or MoneyGram, which may be cheaper than a traditional wire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open an account on a tourist visa?
Some banks will, but it depends on the bank and the length of your visa. A tourist visa valid for at least 30 days gives you the best chance. Call the bank first to ask whether they accept tourist visas, because policies vary. If one bank says no, try another.
What if I don't have a Georgian address yet?
You need an address to open an account. If you just arrived, book a hotel or hostel for at least a few days and use that address. Once you have a rental agreement or a landlord letter, you can update your address with the bank. Some banks allow you to update your address online after opening the account.
Do I need a Georgian tax ID number?
No. Foreign residents do not need a tax ID to open a basic bank account. If you are working in Georgia, your employer will help you obtain one, but the bank will not ask for it during account opening.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. Georgian banks require you to appear in person and sign documents yourself. Power of attorney or a representative will not work for account opening.
What happens if I leave Georgia?
You can keep your account open and use it remotely. You can withdraw money, transfer funds, and pay bills online. However, some banks may freeze or close accounts if you do not use them for an extended period (usually six months to a year). Contact your bank before you leave to ask about their policy on inactive accounts.