What is forbidden for tourists in Georgia, and what gets you fined?
The main rules to know before your trip.
Short answer
The fines tourists most often face in Georgia are for smoking indoors, overstaying the visa-free period and traffic violations. Drugs are strictly prohibited, and you must not enter Abkhazia or South Ossetia from Russia. Petty hooliganism or disobeying the police can lead to a fine and expulsion with an entry ban.
Why
- Smoking indoors is banned by the Law on Tobacco Control.
- Since 2025, overstay fines range from 1,000 to 3,000 GEL.
- Entering the occupied territories other than from Georgia is treated as an illegal border crossing.
- The Administrative Offences Code provides for expulsion and entry bans for foreigners.
Details
Don't photograph military sites or border posts without permission. Medicines containing narcotic substances may only be brought in with a prescription. Churches expect modest clothing, and it is best to ask before taking photos inside.
Tip
Keep photos of your passport and insurance on your phone, and the insurance policy for a foreign-plated car.
What may differ
Fine amounts depend on the violation and repeat offences and change with amendments, so check the current law.
Common misconception
Tourists aren't fined in Georgia; the police turn a blind eye.
What actually happens
The rules apply to everyone, and road and city cameras record violations automatically.
People also ask
- What should tourists not do in Georgia?
Sources
- Administrative Offences Code of GeorgiaChecked at:
- Law of Georgia on Tobacco ControlChecked at:
- Law of Georgia on Occupied TerritoriesChecked at:
This answer is for reference only and is not legal advice. Laws change, so check the official text on Matsne.
What not to do in GeorgiaRelated questions
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Until what time, and from what age, is alcohol sold in Georgia?
Alcohol in Georgia is sold to people aged 18 and over; selling to minors is prohibited, and shops may ask for ID.
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What can and can't you take out of Georgia?
You can take personal belongings, souvenirs, wine, chacha and food for your own use out of Georgia; Georgian customs mainly restricts items of cultural heritage and large amounts of cash.
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What can get you deported from Georgia?
A foreigner can be expelled from Georgia for staying unlawfully, for example after the visa-free period ends, for threatening state security or public order, and for certain offences.
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Are there coffee shops in Georgia, and what does the law allow on marijuana?
There are no coffee shops in Georgia: selling marijuana is illegal.