Visa-Free Travel at Risk for Georgia, EU Commissioner Cautions

EU Hesitates on Georgia Visa-Free Suspension, Explores Alternative Measures

European Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, has urged caution over potential changes to Georgia's visa-free regime with the EU, noting that several alternative measures are currently being considered. In an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Commissioner Kos said the bloc is exploring a range of options in response to recent developments in Georgia.

One of the key measures under review is the potential revision of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) agreement between the EU and Georgia. Another possibility is freezing Georgia’s EU candidate status rather than targeting ordinary Georgian citizens with a visa suspension.

Kos stressed that while the EU has tools to respond to government actions, any step must be taken carefully to avoid punishing the general population. “I don’t like it when governments ignore the will of their people,” she said, adding that the EU will continue to support Georgian citizens in pursuing their European aspirations.

Partial Suspension of Visa-Free Travel for Georgian Officials Already in Place

Earlier this year, the EU Council implemented a partial suspension of the visa exemption agreement with Georgia—specifically targeting Georgian diplomats and government officials. As of January, these individuals are now required to obtain a Schengen visa, no longer benefiting from facilitated entry procedures.

Under the new restrictions, Georgian diplomats must undergo the standard application process, including paying full visa fees, submitting additional documentation, and enduring longer waiting periods. However, the decision has not received unanimous backing from all EU member states.

The suspension followed Georgia’s adoption of a controversial law on foreign influence transparency, alongside a legislative package on “family values” and child protection—both of which sparked criticism from the EU and international observers for undermining democratic norms.

While the visa-free regime for ordinary Georgian citizens remains intact for now, the EU has made clear that continued alignment with European values and democratic principles is essential for maintaining the privileges granted under current agreements.

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