The Business Association of Georgia is working on a “white list” mechanism to simplify hiring foreign professionals in sectors facing long-term skills shortages. Executive Director Levan Vepkhvadze told BMG that the initiative aligns with amendments to the labor migration law already submitted to Parliament.
Under the new draft law, many foreign workers will no longer need a work permit, including fully remote employees, short-term professionals, staff serving state-owned enterprises, and directors of first-, second-, and third-category companies. Vepkhvadze said these changes address practical problems that arose after foreign employment rules were tightened.
He noted that some specialized professions, such as aviation and energy, face global shortages, making a simplified entry mechanism necessary. The proposed “white list” would allow highly qualified foreign experts in selected fields to work in Georgia under eased procedures.
Vepkhvadze added that IT professionals already benefit from exemptions, including a three-year visa for those earning over USD 40,000 annually. The goal is to extend similar flexibility to other critical sectors through coordinated work with the Ministry of Economy.
