Russian president enacts expansion of visa-free entry for Georgian citizens

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expanded the grounds for visa-free entry for Georgian citizens, as outlined in a newly published presidential decree.

Under this updated policy, Georgians can now enter Russia without a visa for periods exceeding 90 days, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Previously, while all Georgian citizens could travel to Russia for more than 90 days, restrictions applied to those entering for labour or educational purposes. The latest changes have lifted these limitations.

This amendment follows a decree issued in spring 2023, which eliminated visa requirements for Georgian citizens. The initial decision by Russian authorities drew mixed reactions. Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, who opposes the current government, labelled it a provocation and suggested implementing visa requirements for Russian travellers, stating, “We are a tolerant country and welcome everyone, but there are boundaries we cannot cross.”

In contrast, the ruling Georgian Dream party dismissed this proposal, expressing a desire to attract Russian tourists.

Georgia is set to hold parliamentary elections on October 26. Current polling from Edison Research indicates that the ruling party leads with 33 per cent of voter support, followed by the opposition Unity party at 19 per cent, and the Coalition for Change at 13 per cent.

By Vafa Guliyeva