What banks are there in Georgia, and which should a foreigner choose?
The largest banks, apps and what to look for.
Short answer
Georgia's largest banks are TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia, with the most branches and ATMs, good English-language apps and often Russian-speaking support. Others include Liberty Bank, Credo Bank, Basisbank and ProCredit Bank. A foreigner should check whether the bank opens accounts for non-residents, what documents it asks for, whether multi-currency accounts are available and the service fees.
Why
- The banking system is supervised by the National Bank of Georgia.
- Requirements for Russian citizens are stricter, and refusals may come without explanation.
- Accounts are opened in person at a branch with a passport and a Georgian phone number.
Details
If one bank refuses, try another, as requirements differ. Compare card and transfer fees before opening an account.
Tip
Choose a bank with an app in a language you understand and a branch near your home or work.
What may differ
Service terms and required documents depend on your citizenship, residency status and the bank.
Common misconception
What actually happens
People also ask
- Which bank to choose in Georgia?
Sources
- National Bank of GeorgiaChecked at:
The banking situation was checked on October 3, 2026 and may change.
Most Reliable Bank in Georgia: Overview and ComparisonRelated questions
-
How do you receive a transfer from abroad to a Georgian account?
You can receive money from abroad by bank transfer to your IBAN, through a system such as Western Union, or via Visa+ by phone number to a TBC card.
-
What is a Georgian IBAN and where do you find it?
A Georgian IBAN has 22 characters: the country code GE, two check digits, two letters of the bank code and 16 digits of the account identifier assigned by the bank.
-
How can you top up a card or pay a bill at a terminal in Georgia?
Utilities, mobile, internet, television and state services in Georgia are paid at payment terminals: the TBC Pay network has more than 4,000 terminals and over 1,000 services.
-
Where can you exchange damaged or old lari banknotes?
Worn and damaged lari banknotes and coins are replaced free at face value at the National Bank of Georgia and commercial banks if they still meet the fitness criteria.