Georgia approves tougher migration laws in first reading

Georgia's parliament has approved a bill in its first reading that would tighten the country’s migration laws, introducing harsher penalties for violations and streamlining deportation procedures.

The proposed legislation was introduced by the government and drafted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

The changes were debated during a plenary session streamed live on the parliament’s official website.

Under the amendments, Georgian authorities will be granted expanded powers to deport foreign nationals who violate immigration rules. The legislation also proposes increasing fines for those found in breach of residency regulations.

A key provision includes the introduction of a new form of punishment — deportation and a temporary entry ban for foreign citizens. This penalty would be added to both the criminal and administrative codes.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that ongoing deportation procedures will not be suspended even if an individual has appealed for residence status or visa extensions through the courts.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs also plans to counter the misuse of Georgia’s asylum system by introducing a fast-track assessment process. Foreigners applying for asylum more than a month after arrival could be subject to this expedited review. Applications may also be processed directly at the border, without allowing entry into the country, if the applicant poses a potential security risk.

Migrants found guilty of minor offences — such as petty hooliganism, disobeying police, or insulting law enforcement — may face deportation and be barred from re-entering Georgia for a period ranging from 10 to 20 years.

Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze, who presented the bill to lawmakers, announced that further changes would be introduced by the second reading. These would include the formal introduction of a work permit system. Under the proposed scheme, employers and undocumented workers would be fined if the individual is found working without the required authorisation.

The legislation is part of a broader government effort to tighten control over immigration and prevent the exploitation of legal loopholes by foreign nationals.

By Aghakazim Guliyev