Study in Georgia: What are the new Georgia visa rules for Indian students? Know the complete process of admission and D3 visa

Situated at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Georgia has today emerged as a leading international destination for higher education among Indian students, especially for pursuing medical (MBBS), engineering and management studies. Since the Ukraine-Russia crisis, Indian medical aspirants have turned to Georgian universities as an option for safe and quality education. The World Health Organization (WHO) and National Medical Commission (NMC) of India accredited institute, affordable tuition fees and completely English medium teaching system make it extremely attractive for Indian students. However, it is mandatory for students to understand Georgia’s entry rules and strict legal procedures for Long-Term Student Visa (D3 category) in order to begin studying there.

Indian students going to Georgia for full-time academic courses (e.g. 5-6 year MBBS or 3-4 year Bachelor degree) of more than 90 days duration Immigration Visa (D3 Category Student Visa) It is necessary to obtain. This visa is processed through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Georgia e-Visa portal or through the Authorized Consulate/Visa Facilitation Center (VFS Global).

• Validity of Visa: The D3 visa issued at the initial stage usually comes with a validity of 90 days (multiple entry).

• Temporary Residence Permit (TRP): Within 45 days of arrival in Georgia, the student has to compulsorily apply for a one-year Student Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) by visiting the ‘Public Service Hall’ (Ministry of Justice/LEPL) there. This residence card is renewed every year during the duration of the course.

• Bank Balance and Financial Capacity: The first year’s tuition fees and living expenses for at least 6 months to 1 year (stable bank balance of approximately Rs 4 to 6 lakh) must be certified in the bank account of the student or their sponsor (parents).

The admission process in prestigious universities of Georgia is completely transparent and based on online system. Its main steps are as follows:

• Step 1: Selection of University and Course: First of all, the student has to choose the course of his interest and the university authorized by the National Accreditation Center of Georgia (National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement).

• Step 2: Evaluation of Documents and Interview: The student’s 10th and 12th academic documents, passport copy and NEET scorecard are sent to the admission committee of the university. Most universities conduct a short online video interview (Skype/Zoom) to test the student’s basic English proficiency.

• Step 3: Offer letter and recognition from Ministry of Education: On passing the interview the university issues a ‘Provisional Offer Letter’. After this, official verification (Recognition/Order) of the documents is done by the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia, which takes 2 to 4 weeks.

• Step 4: Fee Payment and Official Invitation: After getting approval from the Ministry, the student has to transfer the first year or semester fees to the official bank account of the University, after which the institution issues the original ‘Ministry Invitation Letter’.

The Georgian Embassy and Immigration Department are extremely strict about the authenticity of documents. Indian students need to keep the following documents ready:

• Original passport with at least 1 to 1.5 years validity.

• Original marksheets and passing certificates of class 10th and 12th (Apostille/Attested by Ministry of External Affairs India).

• Valid NEET scorecard issued by National Testing Agency (NTA) for Medical (MBBS).

• Official Admission/Invitation Letter from Georgian University.

• Bank Statement (last 6 months, with bank seal and signature) and Affidavit of Support.

• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), issued from the Passport Office.

• Medical & Travel Insurance.

• Valid residence certificate in Georgia (hostel receipt or rent agreement).

Education in Georgia is based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), making degrees recognized for higher studies in Europe, the UK and the US. The biggest advantage for Indian students is that most universities do not require expensive English tests like IELTS or TOEFL for admission. The country is considered very safe for students due to its low crime rate. However, students going abroad are advised not to fall prey to any unauthorized agents or middlemen and choose only those colleges which fully meet all the norms of NMC’s Foreign Medical Graduate Regulations (FMGL)—such as minimum 54 months of study, 12 months of internship and English medium. It is mandatory to get all documents Apostilleed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India to avoid visa rejection.