Georgia tightens regulations against illegal immigration, says Deputy Economy Minister

Mariam Kvrivishvili, the Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, on Saturday said the Georgian Government was adhering to a well-balanced migration policy that aligns with efforts to curb illegal immigration while simultaneously fostering the country's tourism sector.

In her remarks over the matter, Kvrivishvili noted that a recent Government decree was strengthening existing regulations and was specifically aimed at preventing the growth of illegal immigration in the country.

She also addressed what she described as disinformation and attempts to mislead the public regarding this decree, particularly claims that visa policies have been simplified.

“It is precisely based on this policy that our country's tourism industry is experiencing consistent and stable growth. We have also seen the tourism statistics for the first quarter of this year, which clearly demonstrate an increase in tourist arrivals from a diverse range of strategic countries for us. On the other hand, the Ministry of Internal Affairs is constantly working to prevent an increase in illegal immigration in Georgia and, on the contrary, to ensure its prevention”, Kvrivishvili said.

She further emphasised that the recent Government decree was serving precisely to restrict and tighten regulations against illegal immigration in Georgia.

Kvrivishvili reiterated that there has been a spread of disinformation and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public, suggesting that visa policies had been eased.

To clarify further, Kvrivishvili explained that the Government's decree tightens the existing regulation that allowed citizens of certain countries to enter Georgia visa-free if they held a valid residence permit from the Persian Gulf countries.