Georgia mandates travel health insurance for all foreign visitors in 2026
Starting January 1, 2026, all international visitors to Georgia must hold valid travel health insurance. The new rule aims to ensure tourists have access to medical care during their stay. Local insurer GPI Holding, part of Vienna Insurance Group, already covers over 40% of travellers entering or leaving the country. The Georgian government's decision comes after years of uninsured tourists arriving in the country. Before the reform, more than half of visitors likely had no medical coverage. The 2026 legislation will accept both printed and digital insurance policies at border checkpoints.
GPI's platform, mygpi.ge, simplifies the purchase process for travellers. Their policies cover emergencies, including hospital stays, medical evacuations, and urgent dental treatment. The company's policy limit stands at €100,000 (around $37,000), with a daily rate of 8,989 GEL (approximately $7,878). Irina Natsvlishvili, head of GPI's Sales Channels Department, stresses the importance of local coverage. She argues that Georgian insurance ensures visitors can easily access healthcare without delays. GPI sees the mandate as a long-term opportunity to expand its role in the travel insurance market.
The 2026 requirement will change how tourists prepare for trips to Georgia. GPI's existing reach and digital tools position them as a key provider under the new system. Travellers must now secure insurance before arrival, with both electronic and printed policies permitted.
