Georgien

Översikt

Georgia has stabilised since the short but bitter conflict with Russia that saw Russian forces occupy key towns and villages in Georgian territory. However, political and separatist tensions remain and Georgia’s relationship with Russia remains strained as Tbilisi continues to pursue the long-term goal of integration into the security and governmental bodies of the US and Europe, primarily NATO and the EU. The self-declared breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia remain under Russian military occupation, elevating the rating for the regions. The northern regions are also at a higher threat level as a result of their shared border with Russia’s turbulent republics of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia where an active insurgency is present. Since mid-2019, anti-government protests have also occurred regularly in major cities including Tbilisi. The protesters have been demanding for electoral reforms as well as early parliamentary elections among others. 

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Georgia. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Limited malaria risk may exist locally from June through October in the eastern part of the country bordering Azerbaijan. No locally acquired cases have been reported since 2010.

A valid International Vaccination Certificate with proof of Polio vaccination is required from all travelers arriving from countries at risk of Polio virus transmission.

Travellers should be aware of the risks associated with travellers’ ailments such as diarrhoea. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

It is strongly advisable to avoid tap water and instead use sealed bottled water obtained from a reputable source or water that has been filtered and boiled. Avoid ice cubes, unpasteurised dairy products, and raw and undercooked food.

Tuberculosis is endemic in Georgia with high rates of the multidrug-resistant TB.

In Tbilisi medical facilities are widely available but tend to be quite expensive. Outside of the city available facilities are limited. The quality of service tends to be quite poor in both urban and rural settings. Although supplies of European and Russian medicines can be quite good, there can be shortages of disposable needles, anaesthetics, and antibiotics. If your medical incident is quite serious medical evacuation might be necessary. Ensure you have adequate medical insurance to cover this expense. Hospitals and doctors tend to expect immediate and upfront cash payment.

Pass

For entry into Georgia travellers will need a valid passport with remaining validity for the planned duration of stay.

Visum

Many nationals can enter Georgia for up to 90 days without a visa. Nationals of countries where there is no Georgian diplomatic representation may obtain visas at Tbilisi international airport, where a 24-hour service is provided by the Visa Branch of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: www.mfa.gov.ge. Visitors should note that this service is only applicable for short-stay visits.