On May 10, the Russian president issued a decree with Georgia that ends the visa requirement between the two nations. The official document has been published on the government portal of legal information, confirming the decision and its details.
According to the decree, starting May 15, Georgian citizens will be able to travel to Russia and depart without a visa for short visits. The exemption does not apply to those entering for business purposes or staying in Russia for more than 90 days, including training programs. In other words, visa-free travel covers short stays, while long-term residence requires a visa.
Furthermore, the decree introduces a path for Georgian employees and their family members connected to the Georgian Interests Division at the Swiss Embassy in the Russian Federation. After accreditation, these individuals and their families will be eligible to enter and exit Russia without a visa for the entire accreditation period, with the three-month single-entry visa arrangement serving as the initial entry mechanism.
In addition, the decree addresses air service adjustments by prohibiting flights by Russian carriers to Georgia, a measure that affects certain international travel routes and scheduling. This move has implications for tourism, business travel, and bilateral exchanges between the two countries. The policy framework reflects ongoing negotiations and security considerations acknowledged by authorities on both sides, with further clarifications expected as the accreditation process and visa-free terms are implemented. [Source attribution: official government portal and subsequent legal summaries]