U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs Washington, DC 20520 Consular Information Sheet

Georgia

June 29, 2004

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: A mountainous republic situated in the heart of the Caucasus range, Georgia has borders with Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Russia. Living conditions do not meet Western standards. Tourist facilities outside of Tbilisi, the capital, are not highly developed, and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.

Georgia is facing a chronic energy crisis. During the winter months, frequent and prolonged power outages are common, especially outside of Tbilisi. The lack of lighting in public places, even when electricity is available, heightens vulnerability to crime. (Please see the Crime section below for details.)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: A passport and visa are required. U.S. citizens may obtain a visa upon arrival at Tbilisi Airport, the Port of Poti, and the Red Bridge ("Tsiteli Khidi") crossing on Georgia 's border with Azerbaijan. Americans intending to enter Georgia at other points-of-entry must obtain a visa beforehand at a Georgian embassy or consulate abroad. Armenian and Azerbaijani visas are no longer valid for transit through Georgia. Travelers to Georgia must fill out a customs declaration upon arrival that is to be presented to customs officials when departing the country. (Please see also the section on Georgian Customs Regulations.) For further information, please contact the Embassy of Georgia at 1101 15 th Street, Suite 602, NW Washington DC, 2000 5 tel. (202) 387-2390, fax: (202) 393-4537; Internet: http://www.georgiaemb.org.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child’s travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: The U.S. Embassy advises American citizens to avoid travel to the separatist-controlled region of Abkhazia where a tense truce exists between previously warring Georgian and Abkhaz military forces. In addition, there have been bombings, attacks, and kidnappings in Abkhazia. The mining of roads poses a serious threat to vehicular traffic. While Abkhaz "border officials" may demand that travelers entering the region purchase "visas" from the so-called "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Abkhazia," the U.S. Government does not recognize the separatists' declaration of Abkhazia’s independence from Georgia. Because of the restricted access of U.S. officials to Abkhazia, the ability of the U.S. Government to assist American citizens there is extremely limited, even in emergencies. American citizens in areas of Western Georgia near the Abkhaz border are advised to be aware of their surroundings at all times and to avoid straying off main roads or traveling after dark.

American citizens should be aware that they cannot legally cross overland between Russia and Georgia, even if in possession of valid Russian or Georgian visas.

Georgia's armed forces have conducted operations against suspected international terrorists, Chechen fighters, and criminals who have taken refuge in the Pankisi Gorge. American citizens should avoid all travel to the Pankisi Gorge north of Akhmeta. American citizens are also advised to avoid travel to other areas of continuing security concern: specifically, the northern mountainous areas of Georgia bordering the Russian Federation, especially the Chechnya and Dagestan sectors.

Reported crimes directed against American citizens and foreigners have increased in Tbilisi and in the following areas: the region of South Ossetia, Ajara, the region of Imereti, including Kutaisi city, the region of Samtskhe-Javakheti, the upper Svanetia region, and the length of the Abkhazia-Georgia border, including Zugdidi city. When visiting or traveling through these regions, American citizens are urged to increase their vigilance, review their personal security precautions, and take appropriate security measures, e.g. traveling with a native Georgian escort familiar with the local area.

Regardless of the region in Georgia in which they are planning to travel or visit, American citizens are urged to review their personal security precautions, increase their levels of awareness, and as appropriate, take increased security measures.

In the past, religious minorities in Georgia have been targets of violent attacks. The victims were primarily Jehovah's Witnesses, but also include Pentecostals, Baptists, and members of the "Assembly of God." Incidents include the burning of literature, the destruction of private property and the beating (sometimes severe) of believers, including American citizens.

Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

CRIME: Crime is a critical problem in Georgia. Petty incidents of pickpocketing, purse snatching, and cell phone theft are common. American citizens and other foreigners have been recent victims of more serious violent crimes, including rape, carjacking, assault, and armed robbery. Many of these robberies and assaults have occurred in areas frequented by American citizens and foreigners, such as on side streets near Tbilisi ’s city center, including areas off the main avenues in the Vake and Vera districts, and Chavchavadze and Rustaveli avenues, as well as the Saburtalo region of Tbilisi. These crimes often occurred when the victim was alone, after dark, and in unfamiliar surroundings. Economic conditions and opportunities are poor for the average Georgian. There is a great disparity in affluence between foreigners and a large percentage of Georgians. Americans and Westerners are perceived as rich and therefore, more lucrative targets for economic-based crimes.

Petty theft is also a problem on the Tbilisi metro system and in mini-vans used for public transport. American citizens are advised to use personal vehicles or take cars from established taxi companies that will carry passengers door-to-door. While the security of overland travel in Georgia has improved, vehicular and rail traffic remains vulnerable to robbery.

The threat of kidnapping exists both within and outside of Tbilisi. In the past, foreign businessmen have been abducted for ransom. Americans in the Tbilisi region have received kidnapping threats. The possibility of similar risk to Americans elsewhere in the country cannot be discounted.

Aside from typical street and residential crimes, violent attacks of the victim are becoming more commonplace. Using violent tactics, criminals sometimes will incapacitate their victims in order to carry out their intended crime. This is especially true with carjackings. In addition, most carjacking and robbery victims have reported that the assailants were armed with firearms and other weapons.

Therefore, all American citizens visiting Tbilisi and other areas in Georgia are strongly advised to exercise basic security precautions. They should vary times and routes, especially from places of residence to work locations. They should maintain a low profile by, for example, not carrying large amounts of cash, wearing excessive amounts of jewelry, or behaving in a manner that would draw unnecessary attention. Additionally, Americans should be aware of their surroundings, travel in pairs or groups, and stay on main streets and routes. If you will be traveling throughout the country, we recommend that you travel during daylight hours only. Finally, if you become a victim of crime, do not resist. Simply cooperate with the assailant the best you can. Remember, assailants will most likely want your money and/or property. If you fully cooperate, your chances for being assaulted and/or injured will be reduced.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney, if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: Medical care in Georgia is limited. There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics. Elderly travelers and those with pre-existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities. Georgian doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment before rendering medical services.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company before traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash before providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer before your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, “Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad,” available via the bureau of Consular Affairs’ home page at http://travel.state.gov.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC’s Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Georgia is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance:

Safety of Public Transportation: Fair
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor

As in the United States, vehicular traffic in Georgia moves along the right side of roadways. Speed limits range from 80 to 100 km/hr. on highways, and from 30 to 60 km/hr. on urban thoroughfares. Motorists are not permitted to make right turns on red at traffic lights. While legislation mandating seat belt use has yet to be enacted, drivers and passengers are nevertheless strongly advised to buckle up on Georgian roads. Georgian law requires that children under seven (7) years of age be restrained in child-safety seats. A driver with any blood alcohol concentration exceeding zero is considered to be driving under the influence of alcohol. Motorists should exercise extreme caution when driving in Georgia, as many local drivers do not operate their vehicles in accordance with established traffic laws. Traffic signals and rules of the road are often completely ignored. Motorists drive erratically, often recklessly, and at excessive speeds. Motorists may frequently encounter oncoming high-speed traffic attempting to pass other vehicles at blind turns or over hilltops. Pedestrians enjoy no right-of-way and need to be extremely careful when crossing streets. The Georgian Traffic Police, who come under the authority of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, are responsible for maintaining traffic safety in Georgia.

Undivided two-lane roads connect most major cities in Georgia. Roads are generally in poor condition and often lack shoulder markings and centerlines. In addition, traffic signals may not work because of power outages or poor maintenance. Driving at night can be especially dangerous. Travel on mountain roads is treacherous in both rain and snow, and during winter, heavy snowfalls may make some roads impassable. The Georgian Ministry of Interior reported 622 traffic accidents with a death toll of 308 people in 2003.

For additional information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, please see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service between the U.S. and Georgia by local carriers at present, nor economic authority to operate such service, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Georgia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international aviation safety standards. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at tel. 618-229-4801.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Travelers to Georgia must fill out a customs declaration upon arrival that they again present to customs officials when departing the country. Travelers are advised to declare all items of value on the customs form. Failure to declare currency and items of value can result in fines or other penalties. If your customs form is lost or stolen, please report the loss to the police to obtain a certificate to show to customs officials when you depart the country.

Georgia’s customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning the temporary importation into or export from Georgia of items such as alcohol, tobacco, jewelry, religious materials, art or artifacts, antiquities, and business equipment. Only personal medicines with a doctor’s statement can be imported without the permission of the Georgian Department of Healthcare.

U.S. citizens may not import firearms into Georgia; however, hunting weapons may be brought into the country for a two-week period based on valid Georgian hunting licenses. While there is no limit to the amount of currency that can be imported, if more money is exported than was declared at the time of entry, the traveler is obligated to prove it was legally obtained. There are limits on the amount of Georgian currency that may be exported.

The Ministry of Culture, Department of Expertise and Evaluation must license any valuables such as artwork, antiques, jewelry, paintings, etc. This license describes the object, assesses its value, and provides permission to export it from Georgia.

The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia, can provide more specific information on quantities of items that can be imported duty-free, as well as duties excised for specific items. It is also advisable to contact the Embassy of Georgia in Washington, D.C. for specific information regarding customs requirements. In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at www.ustr.gov/reports/2003/special1301.htm.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating the laws of Georgia, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien to engage in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country with a person under the age of 18 whether or not the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident alien intended to engage in such illicit sexual conduct prior to going abroad. Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Predators Act of 1998, it is a crime to use the mail or any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transmit information about a minor under the age of 16 for criminal sexual purposes that include, among other things, the production of child pornography. This same law makes it a crime to use any facility of interstate or foreign commerce, including the Internet, to transport obscene materials to minors under the age of 16.

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: Georgia is an earthquake- and landslide-prone country. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov.

CURRENCY INFORMATION: While the Georgian lari is the only legal tender, dollars can be freely exchanged for laris at market rates. ATM machines are also becoming more widespread, but only within the city of Tbilisi. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside of upscale hotels and restaurants, and travelers’ checks are difficult to cash. Incidents of credit card fraud and identity theft have been reported by American citizens in Georgia.

CHILDREN’S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children’s_issues.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services (OCS) at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling1-317-472-2328.

REGISTRATION AND EMBASSY LOCATION: U.S. citizens living in or visiting Georgia are strongly encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi, where they may obtain updated information on travel and security within Georgia. The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi is located at 25 Atoneli Street, tel. (995) (32) 98-99-67 or (995) (32) 98-99-68, fax: (995) (32) 93-37-59. The Embassy web site address is located at: http://georgia.usembassy.gov.

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This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Georgia dated February 23, 2004, to update the sections on Safety and Security, Crime, Aviation Safety Oversight, Customs Regulations and Criminal Penalties.

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