Georgia (partly in Europe & Asia)
Georgia is a country located at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, in the South Caucasus region. It is often considered partly European due to its geography, history, culture, and political alignment with Europe.
Georgia is bordered by Russia to the north, Azerbaijan to the southeast, Armenia to the south, Turkey to the southwest, and the Black Sea to the west. The country covers an area of approximately 69,700 square kilometres and has a population of about 3.7 million people.
Key Country Information
- Capital City: Tbilisi
- Head of State (President): Mikheil Kavelashvili
- Head of Government (Prime Minister): Irakli Kobakhidze
- Official Language: Georgian
- Currency: Georgian Lari (GEL)
- International Dialing Code: +995
Population and Economy
As of 2024–2025, Georgia’s population is estimated at approximately 3.7 million. The country has a developing economy with strong growth in recent years.
Key economic sectors include agriculture, wine production, tourism, hydropower, transport, construction, and services. Georgia is also an important transit country between Europe and Asia.
European Union and Schengen Status
Georgia is not a member of the European Union but has strong political and economic ties with Europe.
- EU Member State since: ❌ Not a member (EU candidate country)
- Euro Area Member since: ❌ Uses Georgian Lari (GEL)
- Schengen Area Member since: ❌ Not a member
- United Nations (UN): Member since 1992
- Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE): Member since 1992
- Council of Europe: Member since 1999
- GUAM Organization for Democracy and Economic Development: Member since 1997
- World Trade Organization (WTO): Member since 2000
Georgia was granted EU candidate status in 2023. Georgian citizens enjoy visa-free travel to the Schengen Area for short stays, though Georgia is not part of Schengen itself.
Living and Working in Georgia
Georgia has become increasingly attractive to foreign nationals due to its liberal visa regime, low cost of living, and simplified business regulations.
Citizens of many countries can live in Georgia visa-free for up to one year. For long-term residence or employment, residence permits are required depending on work, study, or investment status.
Summary
Georgia is a transcontinental country partly located in Europe, with deep historical and political ties to the European continent. While not an EU or Schengen member, Georgia is an EU candidate country and continues to align itself closely with European institutions and values.
