“Today, we face a situation where individuals entering the country for tourism purposes exploit legislative loopholes to prolong their stay. Furthermore, many European nations are reforming and tightening their migration laws, introducing mechanisms aimed at preventing such abuse of asylum systems,” stated Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Aleksandre Darakhvelidze during his appearance on the Georgian Public Broadcaster’s program “Actual Topic with Maka Tsintsadze.”

He emphasised that the Ministry of Internal Affairs has been diligently working on this legislation for years.

“We have been studying modern approaches and addressing specific issues implemented in various countries, while also monitoring practices within our own borders. Currently, there is a pressing need to close loopholes that allow individuals entering Georgia for tourism to exploit legislative gaps and remain for extended periods. As many European nations reinforce their migration policies, there is a real risk that migration flows may shift toward Georgia.”

Darakhvelidze further explained that the global landscape is witnessing tumultuous events—wars and conflicts—that displace countless people.

“In response, every nation strives to strengthen its legislation and equip itself with the necessary tools to prevent those who might misuse the asylum system from staying longer than their legitimate need. This includes implementing targeted legislative measures to safeguard national security and interests,” Darakhvelidze stated.

He highlighted that all loopholes currently exploited by specific individuals, allowing them to legally remain in Georgia for extended durations, will be addressed through legislative reforms.

“We will introduce streamlined mechanisms enabling the authorities to swiftly deny asylum claims from those who do not genuinely qualify and to initiate deportation procedures when appropriate.”

Additionally, Darakhvelidze announced the introduction of a new administrative penalty—expulsion from the country—applicable to individuals committing certain violations, such as petty hooliganism, disobedience to police, or breaching assembly and demonstration rules.

“Society has observed numerous foreigners participating in last year’s protests, including several we detained within the Parliament building. These measures will also target violations of visa-free travel regulations,” Darakhvelidze stated.

Deputy Minister further explained that criminal law will incorporate a new form of punishment—expulsion and a ban on re-entry for a specified period—for offences such as illegal border crossings or other crimes committed by foreigners.

“The duration of the ban varies: for minor offences, it may be five to ten years, while for more serious crimes, indefinite restrictions could be imposed,” Darakhvelidze clarified.

Furthermore, Darakhvelidze stated that significant updates also pertain to technical procedures, including residence permit issuance, and substantial increases in fines for violations of visa-free travel rules.

“With these reforms, Georgia will have an effective legislative framework that balances the timely provision of international protection to those genuinely in need with strict measures to prevent system abuse and artificially extend stays,” he concluded.