CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Georgia

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 3 has been updated (demonstrations).

BACK TO TOP

2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Georgia

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Most Canadian visitors to Georgia do not experience problems.

The security situation is stable, but tensions remain in South Ossetia, Abkhazia, and bordering regions.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the regions bordering Russia, to the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as to the areas surrounding these regions. The Georgian Military Highway north of Ananuri should also be avoided.

Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in these areas due to security concerns and travel restrictions.

Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Between August 7 and 12, 2008, there was serious fighting in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as well as in other parts of the country, including Poti, Gori, and near Tbilisi. Russia and Georgia signed a ceasefire agreement, which has eased tensions in most of the country. However, tensions remain high in and close to both breakaway regions. Canadians should exercise a high level of personal security awareness at all times.

Violence and terrorist incidents have occurred in the recent past, resulting in deaths and injuries. There have been a number of car bombings in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Targets are usually military and security facilities, but there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Landmines and explosions have been reported. Unexploded ordnance may pose a risk in areas where military operations occurred. Canadians are advised to defer travel to these areas until it is confirmed that the risk is no longer present.

Prior authorization is required from the Georgian authorities before entering the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. As there is no official border control, Canadians could face serious difficulties, such as incarceration and fines, when re-entering Georgia if their passport has been stamped by the authorities of these regions.

Regions Bordering Russia

It is not recommended that travellers enter or leave the country via the land border with Russia, specifically through Chechnya, Dagestan, Ingushetia, North Ossetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, or Karachay-Cherkessia. The main border crossing is currently closed, and the situation at other crossing points is uncertain. The sea border is closed.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

BACK TO TOP

3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Violent Crime and Kidnappings

Muggings, home invasions, carjackings, sexual assaults, and other violent crimes against foreigners occur, particularly in urban areas.

Kidnapping involving foreign residents and travellers is a serious problem throughout Georgia, including in regions bordering Russia.

Security precautions should be undertaken to avoid being targeted, such as travelling in groups and not walking or taking the subway alone after dark. Daily routines should be varied. Doors to cars and residences should be locked and well secured. Vigilance should be exercised in crowded places, such as markets and public transportation facilities. When possible, travel by licensed taxi.

Demonstrations
 
Political demonstrations take place regularly in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi, and some have been violent in the past. These demonstrations may cause travel disruption. Canadians are advised to avoid all political gatherings and demonstrations, and to stay away from areas where they could occur, as they could turn violent without warning. Canadians should also monitor news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Petty Crime

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs. Inadequate lighting in public places increases the likelihood of crime. Large amounts of cash should not be carried, and displaying signs of affluence should be avoided. Valuables, passports, and other travel documents should be kept in a secure place. There have been reports of credit card fraud and identity theft.

Police practice standards may differ from those in Canada.

General Safety Information

Power outages and heating shortages are common, especially in winter, which may affect tourist facilities outside Tbilisi.

In case of emergency, contact police at 022, and ambulance services at 033.

BACK TO TOP

4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Georgian authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Georgia and its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Georgia. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from that country.

Tourist Visa: Not required (for stays up to 360 days)
Business Visa: Not required (for stays up to 360 days)
Student Visa: Not required (for stays up to 360 days)

Registration with the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs is required for stays of more than three days. Overstaying can lead to fines or detention.

Travellers should fill out a customs declaration upon arrival. Failure to declare currency and other items upon arrival can result in a fine or penalty upon departure.

Canadians travelling onward to Turkey or Armenia can obtain their visa at the border, but those travelling to Azerbaijan must obtain that visa prior to travel.

---

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

BACK TO TOP

5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

There is no resident Canadian government office in Georgia. The Embassy of Canada in Ankara, Turkey, has consular responsibility for Georgia. The coordinates are as follows:

Turkey - ANKARA, Embassy of Canada
Address: Cinnah Caddesi No. 58, Çankaya 06690, Ankara, Turkey
Tel.: 90 (312) 409-2700
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 00800-14-220-0149
Fax: 90 (312) 409-2712
E-Mail: ankra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.turkey.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

BACK TO TOP

6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Global Issues page on Avian Influenza.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

BACK TO TOP

7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Many, but not all, specialized medical services are available in Tbilisi. Medical facilities are limited outside of Tbilisi. Medical services can be expensive and immediate cash payment is often required. Evacuation may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury, which is very expensive.

Standards of medical rescue assistance may differ from those in Canada.

It is recommended that travellers carry a sufficient supply of medications, including basic first-aid medication, such as medicine to treat diarrhea.

Consumption of untreated water and unsafe foods greatly increases your chance of contracting infectious diseases. Travellers should drink bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, avoid undercooked meat, unpasteurized products, and most food sold in the street.

While there have been outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) in the Ajara region, no human cases have been reported. Travellers should avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals.

Cases of malaria have been reported in the southeast, and there have been reports of rabies cases throughout Georgia.

BACK TO TOP

8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons. However, Canada and Georgia are signatories to the European Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, which enables a Canadian imprisoned in Georgia to ask to be transferred to Canada to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Georgian authorities.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

There is zero tolerance of drinking and driving.

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs may result in jail sentences and heavy fines.

Homosexual activity is legal but is not widely accepted in Georgian society.

Photography of military installations or government buildings may result in a penalty. Travellers should seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

A special licence issued by the Ministry of Culture (Department of Expertise and Evaluation) is necessary to export some artwork, antiques, jewels, and items considered to be of national heritage.

Dual Nationality

Canadian Georgians may be subject to military service. They should seek advice from the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate.

BACK TO TOP

9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Air, Road and Rail Travel

Long-distance rail travel at night and alone should be avoided, except for the "American Express" rail service linking Baku, in Azerbaijan, to Tbilisi. The compartment should not be left unattended. The cabin door should be locked from the inside. Current ethnic conflicts have interrupted services on the Trans-Caucasian Railway's main line.

There are safety concerns related to public transportation.

It is advisable to drive defensively, as traffic accidents are a common cause of injury and death. Poor road conditions, poor driving standards, insufficient road markings, and inadequate lighting create hazards. Driving after dark should be avoided. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are advised.

Turning right on a red light is illegal. Pedestrians do not have right of way. It is compulsory to wear seat belts in Georgia and children under seven years of age are required to sit in child safety seats.

Only officially marked taxis should be used. Fares should be pre-negotiated. Rides should not be shared with strangers.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

Mountaineering and Hiking

Mountain trekkers should not travel alone but with recognized groups and organizations. Accurate information on mountain conditions can be difficult to obtain. The weather in mountainous areas can be unpredictable.

---

The economy is primarily cash-based. The lari (GEL) is the only legal tender and there are legal limits on currency imports and exports. U.S. dollars and euros are widely accepted and exchanged for local currency. U.S. dollar traveller's cheques (American Express, MasterCard, and Visa Dollar) can be exchanged at international hotels or local banks. Exchange facilities in Tbilisi are numerous and efficient, and deal in a variety of currencies (but not Canadian). Unlicensed exchange facilities should be avoided. Credit cards are increasingly being used in Tbilisi’s upscale tourist hotels and restaurants, and ABMs can be found in major cities. In smaller towns ABMs are less reliable.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

BACK TO TOP

10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Georgia is located in an active seismic zone. An earthquake may cause landslides in affected areas, and strong aftershocks are possible up to one week after the initial quake.

BACK TO TOP

11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

BACK TO TOP

12. ANNEX

N/A

BACK TO TOP