Georgia D3 Student Visa: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
What Is the D3 Student Visa?
The D3 is Georgia's long-stay student visa, issued to international students enrolling in accredited Georgian universities. It is typically valid for 1 year and renewable for the duration of your program. CIS/post-Soviet passport holders generally do not need this visa, but all other nationalities do.
Who Needs the D3 Visa?
- Non-CIS nationals planning to study in Georgia for more than 90 days
- Students enrolling in both undergraduate and postgraduate programs
- Exchange and visiting students staying longer than a tourist period
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Receive Your Official Admission Letter — After paying your enrollment deposit, the university issues an official acceptance letter in Georgian and English.
- Gather Required Documents — See the checklist below.
- Book an Appointment — Contact the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate in your country. Some consulates accept walk-ins.
- Submit Application — Submit all documents and pay the visa fee in person.
- Wait for Processing — Standard processing: 5–15 working days. Express: 3–5 days (higher fee).
- Collect Your Visa — Pick up from the consulate or, in some countries, receive by mail.
- Register on Arrival — Within 5 days of arriving in Georgia, register your address at the Public Service Hall (PSH).
Required Documents
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond visa expiry)
- Completed visa application form (available at the consulate or online)
- Official university admission/acceptance letter
- Proof of enrollment fee payment or financial guarantee
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds ($500–$800 minimum recommended)
- Passport-size photos (2 copies, typically 3×4 cm)
- Health insurance valid in Georgia
- Visa fee payment receipt
Visa Fees (2026)
| Nationality Group | Standard Fee | Express Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Most nationalities | $20–$50 | $50–$100 |
| Some EU/US nationals | $0 (bilateral waiver) | N/A |
After You Arrive: Residence Permit
The D3 visa is your entry document. Once in Georgia, you should apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (B1) at the Public Service Hall (სახელმწიფო სერვისების განვითარების სააგენტო). This permit is tied to your enrollment status and must be renewed annually. Your university's international office will guide you through this process.
Extending & Converting Your Status
- Annual renewal: Submit a new enrollment confirmation from your university.
- Post-graduation: Convert to a work permit or long-term residency permit after securing employment.
- Permanent residency: Available after 6 continuous years of legal residence.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
- Incomplete or inconsistent documents
- University not on the accredited list
- Insufficient proof of financial means
- Previous overstay or immigration violations
If rejected, you may reapply with corrected documents. Our team can help review your application before submission.