Georgia’s Deputy Interior Minister Alexander Darakhvelidze has dismissed as “speculation” reports that visa requirements have been relaxed for citizens of certain countries.

Speaking on Wednesday, Darakhvelidze said recent government changes made on 17 April 2025 were designed to strengthen restrictions rather than ease them.

“The modifications entail a list of particular nations whose people, if they hold a visa or residency permit from a Gulf country for a year or longer, will only be allowed to visit/stay in Georgia.

Prior to the changes, there was no precise deadline; for example, an Afghan national could visit and stay in Georgia with a one-week visa or residence permit,” Darakhvelidze explained.

He added that the government had identified cases of people from certain countries seeking asylum and remaining in Georgia illegally.

“Our goal is to strengthen the fight against illegal migration and impose additional restrictions on citizens of specific countries,” the Deputy Minister said.