New Regulation Requires Tourists Visiting Georgia to Have Health and Accident Insurance Starting 2026

Parliament postpones implementation to allow for comprehensive preparation and adaptation

Tbilisi, 24.11.2024 — Tourists entering Georgia will be required to have health and accident insurance starting January 1, 2026, the Parliament announced on Monday following amendments to the domestic law on tourism.

Originally slated for implementation on June 1, 2024, the enforcement date has been pushed back to provide ample time for all stakeholders to prepare effectively. The parliamentary majority, who initiated the amendment, emphasized that the introduction of this new requirement involves "multiple stages of preparation."

Phased Implementation for Effective Adaptation

The lawmaking body outlined several key steps in the lead-up to the new enforcement date:

Informing the Private Sector: Engaging with hotels, tour operators, and other businesses within the tourism industry to ensure they are aware of the new regulations and can communicate them to their clients.
Diplomatic Outreach: Notifying diplomatic representations to inform potential visitors from their respective countries about the upcoming changes.
Public Information Campaigns: Launching initiatives to educate both the local and international community, helping the sector "effectively adapt" to the new requirements.

Rationale Behind the Amendment

The mandatory health and accident insurance requirement aims to enhance the safety and well-being of tourists during their stay in Georgia. By ensuring that all visitors have adequate insurance coverage, the government seeks to:

Protect Tourists: Provide financial security in case of medical emergencies or accidents.
Support the Healthcare System: Alleviate the potential strain on Georgia's medical facilities by reducing uninsured treatments.
Promote Responsible Tourism: Encourage visitors to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health while traveling.

Statements from the Parliamentary Majority

A spokesperson for the parliamentary majority commented:

"The postponement to January 1, 2026, allows us to undertake comprehensive preparations. It's crucial that we work closely with the private sector and international partners to ensure a smooth transition. Our goal is to implement this requirement without disrupting the flow of tourists who contribute significantly to our economy."

Implications for Tourists

Visitors planning to travel to Georgia on or after the enforcement date should:

Obtain Valid Insurance: Purchase health and accident insurance that covers the entire duration of their stay in Georgia.
Verify Compliance: Ensure the insurance policy meets the criteria set by Georgian authorities, which will be detailed in upcoming official communications.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates through official government channels or consult with Georgian embassies and consulates.

Industry Response

The tourism sector has expressed a mix of understanding and caution regarding the new requirement. While acknowledging the importance of tourist safety, industry representatives highlight the need for clear guidelines and sufficient preparation time.

Natia Turnava, former Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, noted:

"Implementing such measures is a step toward responsible tourism. However, it's imperative that we provide clear information and support to our industry partners to prevent any negative impact on tourist arrivals."

Next Steps

In the two years leading up to the implementation, the government plans to:

Develop Clear Guidelines: Issue detailed instructions regarding the types of acceptable insurance policies and coverage amounts.
Collaborate with Insurance Providers: Work with both local and international insurance companies to offer suitable products for tourists.
Enhance Communication Channels: Utilize media, social platforms, and official websites to disseminate information widely.

The new regulation reflects Georgia's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its visitors while promoting sustainable tourism practices. By providing a substantial preparation period, the government aims to facilitate a seamless transition for both tourists and the tourism industry.