MP: EU unlikely to suspend visa-free travel with Georgia in years to come

Given the current sentiment among European Union member states, the suspension of the visa-free regime for Georgian citizens is not expected in the coming years, Georgian lawmaker Levan Makashvili said.

Makashvili noted that Georgia remains committed to meeting objective criteria related to migration and security management, Caliber.Az reports.

“Where possible, we will take steps in all directions to fulfill our obligations. We were, are, and will remain ready to cooperate with relevant EU institutions in a constructive manner, even as political pressure on Georgia continues,” he said.

On December 19, 2025, the European Commission adopted its eighth report under the Visa Suspension Mechanism, monitoring the EU's visa-free regimes. The report highlights "systemic and deliberate" regression in governance, rule of law, anti-corruption, and fundamental rights in Georgia. A revised mechanism, effective December 30, 2025, allows faster, targeted suspensions—including initially for diplomats/officials, then potentially the general population—on grounds like human rights violations.

The EU has proceeded with suspending visa-free benefits for holders of Georgian diplomatic, service, and official passports as a targeted measure against decision-makers. Ordinary Georgian citizens remain exempt for now, preserving general visa-free travel.

By Khagan Isayev