Tbilisi

Tbilisi is the vibrant capital city of Georgia, known for its diverse architecture and mélange of Eastern and Western influences. The city is situated on the banks of the Kura River and is surrounded by hills and mountains, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the urban landscape. Tbilisi's old town, with its narrow alleys and historic buildings, reflects a long, complicated history, with periods under Persian and Russian rule. The city's architecture is a mix of medieval, neoclassical, Art Nouveau, Stalinist, and modern structures. Visitors can explore ancient churches, such as the 6th-century Anchiskhati Basilica, and the stunning Sameba Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Tbilisi is also known for its lively arts and cultural scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and museums, including the Georgian National Museum. The city's social life is centered around its many cafes, restaurants, and wine bars, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy traditional Georgian cuisine and the famous Georgian wine. Tbilisi is also home to several parks and green spaces, such as the expansive Vake Park and the National Botanical Garden of Georgia, offering residents and visitors a respite from the urban environment. The city's public baths, particularly the sulfur baths in the Abanotubani district, are a historic and popular attraction, reputed for their therapeutic properties. Tbilisi's unique charm lies in its ability to embrace the new while preserving its ancient traditions and history.

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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Georgia involves several steps and can be considered an average challenge compared to other countries. The most common types of residency visas are the Work Residence Permit and the Investment Residence Permit. To apply for a Work Residence Permit, an expat must first secure a job in Georgia. The employer typically assists with the visa application process, which involves submitting various documents, including a valid passport, proof of employment, and a letter from the employer. The Work Residence Permit is usually granted for a period of up to one year and can be renewed. For those who want to invest in the country, the Investment Residence Permit is available. This requires an investment of at least 300,000 GEL (approximately 100,000 USD) in the Georgian economy. Investors must provide evidence of their investment and submit the necessary paperwork, which includes a passport, proof of investment, and application forms. Digital nomads often opt for the Short-term Visa if their stay is less than one year. For longer stays, they may apply for the Work Residence Permit, provided they can secure a job or prove they are self-employed with a stable income. The application process for residency visas in Georgia is relatively straightforward, but it requires attention to detail when preparing the documentation. The Georgian Public Service Hall oversees the visa and residency permit applications, and their website provides detailed instructions and a list of required documents. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes about 30 days for a residency permit to be issued once all the correct documents have been submitted. It is important to note that all documents must be translated into Georgian and notarized. Additionally, Georgia offers a visa-free regime for citizens of many countries, allowing them to stay in the country for up to one year without a visa, which is a significant benefit for potential expats and digital nomads considering Georgia as their destination.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Tbilisi is moderate compared to other major cities in the region, with reasonable prices for housing, food, and transportation, making it an affordable destination for expatriates and locals.

Weather

Tbilisi experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and moderately cold winters, with a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year.

Healthcare in Tbilisi

Tbilisi is home to several reputable healthcare institutions, including the Tbilisi State Medical University Teaching Hospital, which is known for its comprehensive medical services and serves as a primary healthcare provider in the region. Another significant facility is the MediClub Georgia, a clinic that offers a range of healthcare services and specializes in catering to the expatriate community with English-speaking staff.

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