Thursday, 21st May 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 8th January 2026, 11:10 AM
Starting January 2026, all tourists entering Georgia will be required to present proof of health and accident insurance. Qatar Airways has informed its passengers about this new legislation, which is designed to ensure safe travel for visitors and to mitigate potential strain on the country’s healthcare system.
The Georgian government emphasises that the regulation aims primarily to safeguard tourists against unexpected medical emergencies and to reduce the financial burden associated with such incidents. Under the new law, visitors must provide proof of coverage for the entire duration of their stay. Failure to present valid documentation may result in delays at the border or even denial of entry.
Under the new legislation, all tourists must obtain health and accident insurance from either a local or international provider. The minimum coverage has been set at 30,000 Georgian Lari (GEL). Insurance documents must be presented in either Georgian or English.
| Insurance Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Insured Parties | Names of the insured individual and the insurance provider |
| Coverage Area | Countries or regions included under the policy |
| Covered Events | Risks or situations included in the coverage (e.g., illness, accident) |
| Coverage Duration | Policy start and end dates |
| Risk Coverage | Specific incidents such as medical emergencies or accidents |
| Minimum Coverage Amount | 30,000 GEL |
| Premium | Insurance cost and payment terms |
| Exclusions | Certain events or conditions may be exempted |
Certain categories of travellers will not be subject to the mandatory insurance requirement:
| Exemption Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Diplomatic & Special Visa Holders | Government representatives and officials |
| Diplomatic Passport Holders | Diplomatic, official, service, or special passport holders |
| Approved Diplomats & Families | Family members of diplomats or international organisation representatives |
| Entry under International Agreements | Visitors arriving under bilateral or international treaties |
| International Transport Drivers | Drivers transporting goods or passengers |
Tourists planning a trip to Georgia are strongly advised to arrange insurance in advance. Both local and international insurance providers have already begun issuing policies that comply with the new requirements. Travellers should ensure that documents are presented in the correct language to avoid complications at border checkpoints.
Georgia’s rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and popular tourist attractions draw millions of visitors each year. While the new insurance mandate adds an extra step to travel preparations, it is intended to enhance safety and provide peace of mind throughout a tourist’s visit.
Qatar Airways has confirmed that all passengers travelling to Georgia from January 2026 onwards must comply with the new health insurance law to ensure a secure and hassle-free journey.
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