Health Insurance for Foreigners in Georgia (2022–2025): A Complete Guide

Can insurance cover all expenses? Yes, a foreigner can obtain a policy that will cover medical expenses in Georgia in the event of an insured event, within the insurance limits. There are two options: purchase international travel insurance before the trip or obtain a local voluntary health insurance (VHI) policy from a Georgian company after arrival. Both options, if properly selected, can cover the main costs in case of illness or an accident.

It’s important to understand that "full coverage" doesn’t mean unlimited funding for any situation — every insurance policy has its limits and conditions. For example, when choosing a Georgian policy, one can select a package with high inpatient coverage (for instance, up to 30−50 thousand USD) and outpatient treatment. Travel policies usually offer a standard limit of around 30,000 EUR (a requirement similar to Schengen visas). This amount is usually sufficient for emergency care, including surgeries and medium-complexity hospitalizations. Thus, a properly chosen insurance policy can fully cover the treatment of typical injuries or acute illnesses in Georgian clinics.

Which policy to choose? Short-term visitors (tourists) should opt for international travel insurance with coverage for medical expenses and evacuation. It is valid in Georgia during the trip and pays for emergency medical care, hospitalization, medication, etc. (usually via reimbursement or through an assistance service). However, if a longer stay is planned, it makes sense to consider a local VHI policy from a Georgian insurance company — it provides access to networks of clinics in Georgia, often operates cashlessly (the insurer settles directly with the hospital), and covers both emergency and planned care. Below, we will take a closer look at the terms of Georgian and foreign insurance policies.

Availability of Local Insurance. Almost all major Georgian insurers offer foreigners the same health insurance programs as citizens. Among the leading companies are GPI Holding, Imedi L, Ardi, TBC Insurance, Aldagi, IRAO, Unison, and PSP Insurance — all of them provide private medical policies for individuals, available also to non-citizens. A residence permit is not required for purchase — many companies even insure tourists without a residence permit. However, there are some differences in the process of issuing and paying for policies:

• Policy duration and payment. The standard period is 12 months. As a rule, the minimum insurance period is one year. Many companies require upfront payment for the first and last month when signing the contract, with the remaining months paid monthly. If a payment is missed, the policy is suspended until payment is made (note that the pre-paid "last month" does not cover the overdue installment). Some insurers may require foreigners to pay for the entire year in advance, so be sure to clarify this when applying.

• Package costs. The cost of local insurance for a foreigner is relatively low. Basic plans start from around 40−60 GEL per month (≈$ 13−19), which is ~500−720 GEL per year. Minimum annual policies begin at about 500 GEL per person, but in practice, more comprehensive packages costing around 800−900 GEL per year (approximately $ 280−320) are in demand. For example, expats report paying ~60−66 GEL/month for a Unison policy with broad coverage. This is significantly cheaper than typical international plans: for comparison, local coverage may cost $ 250/year, whereas a similar international insurance plan can cost up to $ 5000/year.

• Covered services. Georgian insurance is usually divided into packages (standard, extended, premium). They cover emergency care (100%), hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostics, outpatient visits to specialists, and partially — the cost of medications and dental care. However, coverage is rarely full: depending on the policy, reimbursement for medications and outpatient treatment ranges from 20% to 80%. The more expensive the package, the higher the percentage and coverage limits. For example, visits to a general practitioner are usually free, while visits to specialists and lab tests are partially covered (a certain % or up to a certain amount). Dental services are often covered at 50−70% (fillings, cavity treatment) and only partially (10−50%) for expensive prosthetics or implants. Many policies include one free preventive check-up per year (blood tests, urine tests, ECG, etc.).

• Exclusions and limitations. It’s important to carefully review the terms (they are provided in Georgian, with translation available if needed). Waiting periods are common: for example, GPI’s insurance policy begins covering illnesses only 14 days after purchase (to avoid claims for pre-existing conditions). Almost all policies exclude pre-existing conditions (i.e., chronic illnesses that occurred before the insurance was purchased must be treated at the client’s own expense). There may be limitations on expensive treatments during the first year: some companies do not cover planned surgeries in the first 6−12 months of the policy to avoid situations where clients buy insurance solely for an upcoming operation.

• Language of service. Although the contract text will be in Georgian, large insurance companies have English- and Russian-speaking managers to assist foreigners. Language barriers rarely arise during medical visits either: there are many Russian-speaking specialists in Georgia, and almost all clinics have staff who speak English.

Major insurance companies and their features: The market is dominated by 5−6 leading insurers (GPI Holding, Imedi L, Ardi, TBC Insurance, Aldagi, IRAO, etc.) that offer similar products. The differences for clients are more in the level of service and package details. For example, GPI Holding offers the 'Exclusive' line with various limits (premium package ~$ 50/month according to expat reviews); Ardi is known for its 'Welcomer' program for newcomers, covering emergency care, hospitalization, evacuation, etc., with zero deductible (limit around 15,000 GEL); IRAO (VIG) attracts clients with flexible payment options (allowing monthly payments without full prepayment); Unison actively works with foreigners, allowing policies to be issued online within minutes. Overall, it makes sense for a foreigner to choose from the top 5 companies — they have a wider network of partner clinics and more experience serving expat clients. Before purchasing, it’s worth requesting a personalized quote from several insurers based on your age and needs — prices and conditions may vary slightly.

State System vs. Private. The main difference is the existence of a state program for citizens. In 2013, the Universal Healthcare Program (UHCP) was introduced, under which most Georgian citizens receive basic coverage from the government. This program finances a range of services: for example, emergency care and family doctor (general practitioner) services are 100% free for all citizens; for socially vulnerable groups (children under 5, pensioners, people with disabilities) — 100% coverage of certain medical services; for others — the state subsidizes about 30% of treatment costs, mainly for expensive services (oncology, childbirth, surgeries, etc.). In simple terms, a Georgian citizen without private insurance still pays for healthcare, but about a third less — clinics apply a reduced rate for them thanks to the state program.

Foreigners, by default, are not included in this system. If a foreigner does not have a residence permit, the state pays nothing — all services are provided on a fully paid basis, 100% at the expense of the patient or their insurance. If a foreigner obtains a residence permit, they can register in the Universal Healthcare Program on par with citizens, but the actual right to free services is granted only to those residents who fall under the criteria of vulnerable categories (low income <40,000 GEL/year, large families, pensioners, etc.). In other words, a permanent foreign resident of Georgia may use public healthcare, but the preferential coverage does not apply to everything or everyone. Most expats with Georgian residence permits are not considered socially vulnerable by the program and therefore do not receive significant free benefits. That’s why nearly all foreigners living in Georgia, as well as tourists, are forced to seek care in private clinics at their own expense or with private insurance.

Commercial insurance policies for citizens and non-citizens are sold on similar terms, but there may be differences in pricing. For example, insurance companies sometimes assess a higher risk for non-residents (lack of health data, possibility of leaving during treatment, etc.), so the cost of a policy for a foreigner may be slightly higher or may require full prepayment for the year. Otherwise, the range of packages is the same: both citizens and foreigners can purchase basic, extended, or family plans from the same insurers. By law, there is no discrimination based on citizenship when selling voluntary insurance — the main requirement is that the person is legally in the country. By the way, many Georgian companies provide employees (including foreign ones) with corporate health insurance — this is a common benefit package. Such a policy is usually minimal, but it can be expanded with an additional payment.

Administrative aspects. There are no special barriers for a foreigner to get insured — it is necessary to provide passport data, a local phone number, and fill out a health questionnaire. The contract is drawn up in Georgian. In the event of an insurance case, a foreigner has the same rights as a local client: the insurer cannot refuse coverage solely because the patient is not a citizen. All settlement rules (payment deadlines, grounds for refusal) are regulated by the Insurance Law and are the same for everyone. In case of a dispute, a foreigner can file a complaint with the Insurance Supervisory Service or go to court, just like a citizen.

If a patient does not have insurance, citizenship affects the cost of treatment. Georgian citizens are eligible for discounted prices thanks to government subsidies: approximately 30% lower for most services. For example, if a citizen is billed 700 GEL, a foreigner will pay around 1,000 GEL for the same treatment (i.e., without the discount) — the difference is due to the universal healthcare program. Additionally, citizens can receive certain types of high-tech care (e.g., chemotherapy, dialysis, heart surgeries) either free of charge or with a significant discount under separate state programs — these are not available to foreigners.

Thus, a foreigner without a residence permit pays the full commercial price. This applies to doctor visits, lab tests, and hospitalizations. In private clinics, the price list is the same for everyone, but then the government reimburses part of the bill to the clinic for citizens. In public hospitals (which are in the minority), citizens may receive a discount immediately, while foreigners are charged the full rate. As a result, the difference can be significant.

Example of price levels without insurance for a foreigner: general practitioner visit — 50−70 GEL, specialist consultation — 60−100 GEL per visit; complete blood count ~20 GEL, urine test 15 GEL, abdominal ultrasound 40−70 GEL. A Georgian citizen would pay ~30% less for the same services. Emergency care (112) is free for citizens, while foreigners may be billed for these services (see Section 7).

Let’s walk through the steps a foreigner should take when medical help is needed, in different situations:
A) You don’t have insurance,
B) You have local (Georgian) insurance,
C) You have foreign (international) insurance.

A) If You Don’t Have Insurance (Paying Out of Pocket)

Where to Go?
In Georgia, you can freely go to any clinic or private doctor — a referral system is not mandatory (though it’s better to choose trusted places). If it’s an emergency, call an ambulance at 112. They will take you to the emergency room of the nearest hospital (have your passport with you). If it’s not urgent, you can go to a private medical center or hospital of your choice. In Tbilisi, the best-equipped facilities include the Republican Hospital, American Hospital, MediClub Georgia, Aversi clinics, Evex clinics, and others. For minor issues, you can visit one of the many private clinics.

How to Pay?
Almost everywhere, you’ll need to pay on the spot. Private offices usually accept cash; larger clinics accept cash or cards. Some public medical institutions may ask for a deposit before hospitalization if you’re a foreigner. Foreigners are charged full rates, with no discounts. So be prepared to cover the costs immediately. For example, with a broken arm, the bill for an X-ray and a cast could be around 200−300 GEL, which needs to be paid before you leave. For serious injuries requiring hospitalization, the bill can easily reach thousands of lari — the hospital will either request an advance payment or ask for a payment guarantee.

Helpful Tips:

• It’s a good idea to call your embassy/consulate if you’re hospitalized without money — they may be able to contact your family or suggest assistance options.
• Keep all receipts and medical reports — if you later decide to file for reimbursement from an insurance company (some insurers may issue a policy retroactively within 24 hours of the incident, though this is rare).
• For non-emergency cases, consider finding English-speaking doctors through expat communities (e.g., Facebook groups) to avoid wasting money on a poor-quality consultation.

Bottom Line:
Without insurance, you are fully independent — you choose the doctor and pay immediately after the service is provided. No additional steps are required, aside from settling the bill.

B) If You Have Georgian Insurance (VHI — Voluntary Health Insurance)

1. Contact the Insurance Company.
2. For any noticeable health issue, first call the hotline of your insurance provider (the number is listed on your policy and works 24/7). Provide your policy number and describe the problem. You’ll be assigned a family doctor (therapist) at one of the clinics in the insurer’s network. Usually, your insurance is linked to a specific family doctor.
3. Visit the Therapist.
4. Make an appointment (either through the insurer or by yourself) and go see your assigned family doctor. For policyholders, this visit is free. Even if you have a good idea of the problem (for example, earache — you need an ENT), you still have to visit the therapist first. At the appointment, the doctor will examine you and issue a referral to a specialist or prescribe necessary tests/examinations.
5. Follow the Referral — See Specialists.
6. With the referral from your doctor, you visit the relevant specialist (e.g., ENT, surgeon, dermatologist) and undergo the recommended tests. Insurance will cover a significant part of these costs; usually, you only need to pay a co-payment (if your plan doesn’t offer 100% coverage). For example, if your policy covers 80%, a visit to the ENT costing 80 GEL will only cost you 16 GEL — the clinic will claim the remaining amount from the insurer. The same goes for lab tests — you take them without paying upfront, the bills go to the insurer, and they may later ask you to pay your share. Some clinics don’t require any payment at all at the time of service if they’re confident the insurance will cover it.
7. Additional Referrals.
8. If a specialist wants to prescribe additional tests beyond the original list — return to your therapist for a new referral. Without it, the insurance may not cover these "unauthorized" procedures. Everything must go through your family doctor, who coordinates your treatment.
9. Approval for Expensive Procedures.
10. If it turns out you need surgery or expensive treatment (e.g., a tomography > 300 GEL), the clinic will send a request for approval to the insurer (form A100). The insurance company will respond within up to 10 days, stating how much they will cover. In emergencies, this process is expedited. You personally just need to wait for the decision. If approved, the procedure will be carried out, and the insurance company will pay according to the guarantee.
11. Treatment and Payment.
12. When receiving services through insurance, you either don’t pay at all or only pay the agreed portion. For example, with many policies, medications prescribed by a doctor must be bought at the pharmacy by you, and then you submit the receipts to the insurer, which will reimburse ~50% of the cost.
13. Dentistry: First, call the hotline, and they will give you a list of partner dental clinics where, for example, 50% of treatment costs are covered by your policy. You go, get treated, and pay with a 50% discount on the spot. The insurer later reimburses the clinic the other half — you don’t need to do anything. In some cases, if the clinic doesn’t work directly with the insurer, you may need to pay first and request reimbursement, but this is rare in Georgia — the main medical centers work with major insurers.
14. After Recovery.
15. Make sure you’ve completed all formalities: submitted original prescriptions for medication reimbursement to the insurer, closed your sick leave if you had one, etc. Usually, it’s straightforward. Remember that, according to policy terms, surgeries start being covered from the second year of insurance, so in the first year, try to stick with conservative treatment or be ready to cover part of the surgical expenses.

Conclusion:
With Georgian insurance, the process is similar to the European model: first the therapist, then referrals to specialists. Emergencies are covered immediately (ambulance and ER will be paid by the insurer). You’re financially protected from large bills, although some expenses are still your responsibility (deductible, co-payment). The key is to always coordinate with the insurance company — then the process will go smoothly.

C) If you have foreign (international) insurance

Before seeking help: check the conditions of your policy. Travel insurance policies usually require you to contact their dispatch service (assistance) yourself before receiving care, otherwise coverage may be limited. So, in an urgent situation, if your condition allows, first call the number listed in your policy and report what happened. They will suggest a clinic in Georgia affiliated with the insurance or confirm that you can go to any one.

Emergency situation: call 112 for an ambulance. Upon arrival, inform them that you have insurance. The ambulance will most likely take you to the nearest appropriate hospital (as they would with any patient). Once in the emergency room, you or your companion should call the assistance number and hand the phone to the clinic administrator — they will discuss the payment arrangements directly. Many major hospitals in Tbilisi are familiar with the process and can accept a guarantee letter from a foreign insurance company. However, if the case isn’t too costly (e.g. you just need a couple of IVs and an X-ray), the hospital may ask for a deposit or full payment from you directly, and you’ll sort out the details with the insurance later. Be prepared to pay out-of-pocket if needed — you’ll get reimbursed later.

Non-emergency care: if there’s no immediate threat to life, international insurances typically work via a reimbursement system. That is, you independently find a doctor, receive treatment, and pay the bill yourself. Afterward, you gather a document package: a doctor’s note with diagnosis, receipts, prescriptions — and send everything to your insurance (via online portal or email). After some time, the insurance reimburses you to your account. For example, if your claim is "acute respiratory illness," you went to a doctor in Tbilisi, paid 60 GEL for the consultation and 100 GEL for medication — then submitted the receipts to your insurance, and they, for example, refunded you $ 50 according to your policy (after deductible, etc.).

Specifics:

• In private clinics in Georgia, they usually don’t ask for a letter from your insurance if the case is not severe. They treat you like a regular patient. They don’t care that you have insurance — it’s your responsibility to get reimbursed. So don’t expect the local doctor to contact your company themselves (this isn’t local health insurance). All communication is your responsibility.
• Language of documents. Ask the doctor to write the report in English (many do this automatically for foreigners). This makes it easier for the insurance company to review your case. Translations of pharmacy receipts into Russian/English might also be needed.
• Deductibles and limits. Make sure your bill exceeds any possible deductible (e.g., if the deductible is $ 100 and you spent $ 80, the insurance will not reimburse anything). Large expenses should be coordinated with the assistance service in advance.
• Direct billing. If your insurance says they can pay directly — check with the clinic administration if they’re willing to cooperate. Sometimes it’s simpler to pay yourself than wait for coordination between a foreign company and a local hospital.

When to pay? With international insurance, it’s often you who pays first, and then gets reimbursed. The exception is emergency hospitalization, where the insurance might pay the hospital directly — but even then, likely after discharge. So have a financial reserve or credit card on hand for medical expenses, even if you’re insured.

Example: a tourist from Germany without local insurance injured his knee in the mountains. He had a policy with a € 30k limit. His friends drove him to a clinic in Tbilisi, where they did an MRI and arthroscopy. The clinic issued a bill for ~3000 GEL. The insurance assistance sent a guarantee letter to the hospital, promising to cover all expenses, and the tourist paid nothing on site. A week later, the insurance transferred the money directly to the clinic’s account. — Another case: a digital nomad from the USA with a cold just went to a private medical center, spent 200 GEL on consultations and medication, and then got ~$ 70 reimbursed by his insurance after submitting scanned receipts.

Conclusion: with international insurance, the process is less formalized. You can go to any medical facility, but you must handle contact with your insurer yourself. It’s always better to inform your insurance in advance (before treatment or right after it starts) so they can log the case. If the expenses are minor, don’t overcomplicate — get treated, pay, and get reimbursed. If the case is serious, insist that the assistance service arranges direct payment with the hospital — this is common practice in Georgia, especially with large international assistance networks (Europ Assistance, Class Assistance, SOS International, etc.).

Is there anything free? For an average foreigner without any special status — almost nothing. As already mentioned, the public healthcare system only applies to citizens and certain residents, so even basic things will be paid for by visitors (unlike in Europe, for example, where emergency stabilization is provided free for everyone).

However, some exceptions exist:

• Ambulance (emergency) services — it’s often mentioned that calling an ambulance via 112 is free for everyone. Indeed, the arrival of a state ambulance crew and transportation of the patient is not charged on the spot. That is, a foreigner won’t receive a bill for the ambulance itself, especially in a genuine emergency. However, it’s important to understand: once at the hospital, paid services begin. The ambulance will take you to the emergency room, where they may do an X-ray, administer medication, hospitalize you — and that’s what you’ll have to pay for. So, the ambulance ride can be considered free, but emergency medical care at the hospital — is not. (Exception — foreigners participating in specific humanitarian programs, see below). Some sources note that even the crew’s work may be charged to a foreigner, but in practice, tourists rarely encounter bills for "pre-hospital emergency services."

• Vaccinations against particularly dangerous infections. Georgia has a national immunization program, and rabies vaccination is free for all victims — regardless of citizenship. That means if you’re bitten by a dog in Georgia, you will receive the full course of rabies shots for free (this is important for disease prevention). Similarly, emergency tetanus vaccination in the event of a wound may be provided free or at a symbolic cost. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Georgian government also offered free COVID-19 vaccinations to everyone, including foreign residents and tourists, provided certain stay conditions were met (as of 2021−2022, foreigners could register for the vaccine).

• Certain serious illnesses. Through international aid programs, Georgia provides treatment for socially significant diseases — tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, sometimes hepatitis — for anyone on the country’s territory. These programs are usually co-funded by WHO/the Global Fund and do not distinguish based on citizenship, in order to control the epidemiological situation. For example, tuberculosis treatment in state centers may be provided free even to foreigners, since interrupting therapy poses a public health risk. However, in practice, a foreigner who is not a refugee may find it difficult to access such services — requiring interaction with the Ministry of Health, NGOs, etc.

• Emergency assistance during natural disasters. If a foreigner is injured in an earthquake or other emergency, they will receive help alongside citizens, and likely won’t be asked to pay the bill (the costs would be covered by the state as part of emergency response efforts).

• Special government programs for certain nationalities. Since 2022, a law has been in effect under which citizens of Ukraine who were forcibly displaced to Georgia receive a wide range of medical services for free. These include: emergency medical care (including childbirth and C-sections), prenatal care, treatment for COVID-19, tuberculosis, HIV, diabetes, dialysis, cancer treatment, and more. This unprecedented benefit was introduced for humanitarian reasons and is funded by the Georgian budget. For other foreigners, such comprehensive programs do not exist.

In summary: a regular tourist or expat should not count on free healthcare — even for an ambulance or a bandage, a bill may be issued. The exceptions apply either to global initiatives (vaccinations, infection control) or to special statuses (refugees, humanitarian cases). Therefore, it’s important to have a financial cushion or insurance.

Situation: A foreigner has had an accident (e.g., a fracture, a crash), and they are brought to the hospital, but they have no money to pay for the treatment. What will happen? Human factors play a significant role, but there are also unwritten protocols:

1. Life Above All. Doctors in Georgia, like everywhere else, prioritize saving lives in emergency situations, and payment issues are addressed later. If a person is admitted with a life-threatening condition (severe injury, heart attack, heavy bleeding), he necessary care immediately—surgery, resuscitation, and stabilization will be carried out without delay. No one will wait for payment when minutes matter. This is an ethical standard: no major clinic will risk refusing treatment to a dying person over money. However, once emergency care is provided and the patient is stable, the financial question will still arise.

2. Payment/Guarantee Requirement. As soon as acute intervention is completed, the hospital administration will begin to clarify who will pay for the treatment. If the patient has no insurance or money, the following steps are usually taken:
• Contacting the patient’s relatives or friends. The hospital will ask for contacts to confirm someone will pay later or contribute funds.
• In some cases, the hospital may keep the patient in the clinic longer until payment is clarified. They won’t physically hold them, but they may delay the discharge.
• If the amount is significant and there is no one to pay, the hospital may issue a bill and send the case to a debt collection bureau. Formally, the foreigner’s debt is a civil matter. Can they be banned from leaving the country for an unpaid bill? Normally, it doesn’t come to that—there are no standard legal mechanisms in place. However, in theory, if the hospital knows the patient is still in Georgia, it could attempt to recover the debt through the court system.

3. Appeal to the Government. In exceptional cases (for example, if a tourist is in a coma and no one can pay), the hospital may notify the Ministry of Health or social services. The state is not obliged to pay for foreigners, but it may, in rare cases, cover emergency care from a reserve fund to save a life. Such cases are extremely rare and are considered on an individual basis.

4. Consular Assistance
Hospitals often ask to contact the patient’s embassy. Consulates will not pay for treatment (it's not their role), but they can:

• Help locate relatives back home,
• Advise on medical repatriation (e.g., arranging transport home).

Example Scenario:
A foreign traveler breaks their spine in the mountains, is rescued, and undergoes surgery in Tbilisi. The bill reaches $ 10,000, but they have no insurance. The hospital provides treatment but withholds discharge documents until friends crowdfund part of the sum. The remaining debt is formalized—upon departure, the patient signs a repayment promise. Such debt could lead to future visa/entry denials if legally recognized, but hospitals often write off hopeless debts over time.

If You Can’t Pay Immediately:

• Negotiate a payment plan - Some hospitals accept installments or partial payment.
• Seek charities - Some Georgian funds assist with medical bills (e.g., for children), though help for foreigners is unlikely. Crowdfunding via social media is an option.
• Consider medical evacuation - If stable, returning home for cheaper treatment may reduce costs—but transporting a bedridden patient is expensive.

Generally, a hospital won’t throw a person out onto the street to die due to lack of money, especially if the condition is critical. But after saving a life — they will present the bill. Legally obtaining further free treatment as a foreigner is extremely difficult. That’s why the "no money and no insurance" situation is very financially dangerous. Even a displaced fracture may require surgery costing several thousand Gel0. Without payment, further hospitalization will be in question.

Advice: if you find yourself without funds, notify all potential helpers (friends, family, consulate) as quickly as possible and seek a solution. Remember that calling an ambulance is free, and emergency care will be provided, so don’t hesitate to call doctors in critical situations. But you need to develop a payment plan alongside receiving treatment.

Unfortunately, insurance companies don’t always approve claims without question—coverage disputes can arise. As a foreigner, you have the right to challenge a denial and fight for payment. Here’s how to protect your rights and what to expect:

Common Reasons for Disputes
· The insurer claims the case isn’t covered by the policy terms. For example, classifies the condition as pre-existing or states the service wasn’t included in the package.
· Exceeding coverage limits — the company pays only up to a certain amount and refuses the remainder.
· Violation of claim procedures — the insurer denies coverage if the client failed to complete certain formalities (didn't call in advance, visited a doctor without referral, etc.).
· Delayed or partial payment without clear reasons — a rare but possible occurrence.

How a foreigner should proceed:
1. First — file a complaint with the insurer. Officially (in writing, via email) submit an appeal demanding reconsideration of the decision. State the facts, attach documents. Insurers are obligated to provide a reasoned response. Often at this stage, if the client’s arguments are substantial, a peaceful resolution can be reached. For example, by providing additional medical reports proving the condition is new, not pre-existing.
2. Contact the regulatory authority. In Georgia, there is the Insurance State Supervision Service of Georgia. It reviews consumer complaints against insurance companies. A foreigner has the right to file such a complaint (in English or Georgian). The regulator may conduct an inspection and issue an order to the insurer if it violated the law or contract terms. The supervisory authority’s contacts are usually listed in your policy.
3. Lawsuit. The last resort — filing a lawsuit in court against the insurer for breach of contractual obligations. In Georgian judicial practice, there have been cases where policyholders (clients) were supported when insurers wrongfully denied claims. The law protects the patient if the contract provides coverage but the insurer refuses payment without grounds. For court proceedings, a foreigner will need to hire a Georgian lawyer and translate documents into Georgian. The legal process may take several months. Usually, it doesn’t come to this — companies try to avoid court disputes in reputationally important markets.

A practical example: a foreign client in Georgia discovered a dental cyst requiring surgery (~2000 GEL). Her insurance (Unison) initially promised to cover 80% as a typical case, but then delayed the response for more than 10 days, ultimately rejecting the claim, stating that "the condition existed before the contract was signed." The patient disagreed — even doctors could not determine when the cyst had formed. However, the insurance company referred to the clause about pre-existing conditions and denied the claim. In the end, the client was disappointed and postponed the surgery to her home country, where it was cheaper. This case illustrates that insurers often exploit the ambiguity of wording. The issue could have been challenged through an independent expert opinion and a court, but due to the amount (≈$ 700), it was easier for the client to go to her local hospital.

How to avoid a denial: carefully read the contract when signing. Pay attention to the "Exclusions" section. Often, it lists conditions that are not covered — for example, exacerbations of chronic diseases within the first 6 months of insurance, injuries under the influence of alcohol, cosmetic surgeries, psychiatric care, etc. If the insurance claim is disputed, gather as much evidence as possible to show that it is covered. For example, a doctor’s statement that the illness is acute and was identified for the first time.

Features for foreigners: The status of being a foreigner should not affect the insurance company’s decision — only the terms of the policy matter. However, in practice, it is more difficult for foreigners to dispute the decision due to language barriers and lack of knowledge of local procedures. It is advisable to have a local contact or lawyer who can help file the claim in proper Georgian, referencing the law. Georgia’s insurance legislation is quite client-friendly, and in case of clear violations of rights, the insurer can be fined.

Court Practice: There have been cases of litigation regarding health insurance, but they are not widely published. According to data from 2022−2023, there have been no mass lawsuits filed by foreign citizens against insurers in Georgia — likely because the amounts in dispute are not very large. However, there have been cases of Georgian policyholders suing insurance companies, and the courts have sided with the patients when it was proven that the insurer unjustly avoided paying. For example, the Supreme Court of Georgia in one case confirmed that the insurer cannot refuse coverage on the grounds of a hidden clause that was not explained to the client (similar to the principle of contra proferentem — ambiguities are interpreted in favor of the consumer).

If the insurance is foreign: The situation becomes more complicated — the dispute will have to be resolved according to the laws of the insurer’s country. For example, if you have a policy from a British company, you would need to file a complaint with the Financial Ombudsman in the UK. Georgian authorities have no jurisdiction over foreign insurers. In such cases, support from your travel agent or employer—whoever arranged the policy—can be helpful. However, international insurance companies usually avoid risking large sums in markets where their reputation matters. They are more likely to seek an out-of-court settlement.

Recommendation: When dealing with a dispute involving an insurance company, always communicate in writing (letters, email) to ensure you have proof of your correspondence. Be confident in your communication and refer to specific clauses in the contract. If you believe you’re in the right, don’t hesitate to escalate the issue. In Georgia, insurance companies are supervised by the National Bank and are required to respond to the regulator. In many cases, simply mentioning a complaint to the supervisory authority can prompt the insurer to take a more cooperative stance.

Conclusion: It is entirely possible to assert your rights—foreigners have the same legal mechanisms at their disposal as local citizens. The key is to know the terms of your insurance policy and to act within the law. Many disputes can be avoided by carefully choosing your insurance and properly following the treatment procedures. But if a conflict does arise, make sure to exercise your consumer rights. In the end,

a responsible insurance company is interested in preserving its reputation and keeping its clients. With persistence, you’re likely to either receive the full compensation or reach a partial settlement—for example, covering half of the disputed amount.

To better understand the specifics of Georgia’s approach, let’s briefly examine how medical insurance for foreigners is handled in some other countries:

·Armenia: The situation is similar to Georgia’s. The state does not provide free medical care to tourists—all services are paid. Foreign residents can voluntarily purchase insurance from local companies (costing around $ 20−30 per month). Emergency care is provided first, and the bill comes afterward. There is no mandatory health insurance requirement for entry (though some visas may require a policy). Medical service prices in Armenia are comparable to Georgia’s—slightly lower in some cases—but quality and accessibility outside Yerevan are limited. As a result, expats also rely on private insurance or seek treatment abroad for serious conditions.

· Turkey: Turkey has a well-developed network of both public and private hospitals. Tourists receive medical care on a fee-for-service basis (unless insured). However, foreigners applying for residency in Turkey are legally required to obtain health insurance—without a valid policy (local or international), a residence permit will not be issued. Many residents opt for Turkey’s public SGK insurance or private plans. In emergencies (e.g., life-threatening conditions in public hospitals), Turkey often provides free or low-cost treatment to foreigners on humanitarian grounds, though costs are later expected to be reimbursed by insurance or the patient. Private clinics, however, strictly operate on a fee-for-service basis. Medical prices for foreigners in Turkey are lower than in Western Europe, making it a popular destination for medical tourism. Nevertheless, expats living there long-term are strongly advised to have insurance.

· Israel: Known for having one of the world’s best healthcare systems. However, it is free only for citizens and permanent residents who pay a healthcare tax. For foreigners (tourists), any medical assistance is extremely expensive. For example, a simple visit to an emergency room in Israel can cost several hundred dollars. That’s why almost all tourists entering Israel are required to have health insurance—often a policy is mandatory for visa issuance.
There are special medical insurance plans for foreign workers and students in Israel, which must be arranged by employers or educational institutions. Without such coverage, foreigners must pay out of pocket—and Israeli hospital bills are among the highest in the world. In a life-threatening emergency, foreigners will of course receive treatment—but afterward, the hospital may even request reimbursement from the individual’s home country.
Overall, Israel is a prime example of a country where health insurance for foreigners is absolutely essential —without it, one faces the risk of overwhelming expenses.

· Germany: A country with mandatory health insurance for all residents. It’s nearly impossible to enter Germany without it—any long-term visa application requires proof of valid health coverage. Even short-term visitors (Schengen entry) must have insurance with a minimum coverage of € 30,000. Citizens and permanent residents are enrolled in the public insurance system (or private, if their income is high), and foreigners relocating for work or study must also register with these insurance funds. For tourists, however, German clinics are among the most expensive in Europe: a visit to the emergency room can exceed € 500, and hospitalization can cost thousands per day. Without insurance, it’s simply too risky. The good news is that German hospitals will not deny emergency care due to lack of funds—they will treat first and send the bill later. However, non-payment can result in legal consequences. Compared to Georgia, Germany’s system is more strictly regulated: foreigners are either guaranteed care through insurance or are not allowed to stay without it, as coverage is mandatory. Georgia had only begun moving toward this model, attempting to introduce compulsory health insurance for all incoming visitors starting in 2024—similar to Schengen regulations.

Conclusion in the global context: Georgia is somewhere in the middle. On the one hand, it, like a number of neighboring countries, does not provide free medical care to foreigners, relying on their personal responsibility. On the other hand, it has not yet required strictly mandatory insurance upon entry (unlike the EU, Israel, Turkey for residents). This meant greater freedom for tourists, but also greater risks. The trend of recent years — the movement towards mandatory insurance for guests — is in line with global practice, and from 2026, perhaps, everyone entering will really have to have a policy.

For the foreigner himself, the logic is the same everywhere: when abroad, it is highly desirable to have medical insurance. In countries with expensive medicine (Israel, Germany), it is a question of financial survival; in countries with cheaper medicine (Georgia, Armenia), it is a question of comfort and safety. But everywhere, the lack of insurance makes a foreigner vulnerable, because he does not benefit from the social guarantees that local residents have. Therefore, when planning a trip or move, it is worth including medical insurance in the list of priorities in advance, especially in Georgia, where each visit to the doctor is paid.

Health insurance for foreigners in Georgia is not a luxury, but a vital necessity. We have considered that a foreigner can and should provide himself with coverage: either through an inexpensive local policy or by taking international insurance with him. Without this, even a small problem will result in significant out-of-pocket expenses, not to mention serious cases. Georgian insurance companies are willing to work with foreigners, offering a variety of plans at reasonable prices, and their coverage is quite sufficient for most situations. International insurance can supplement protection, but does not cancel out the convenience of local service.

We’ve established that foreigners in Georgia have no access to public healthcare (except in rare emergency cases). This creates a significant rights gap compared to citizens — something you should take into account. Don’t rely on "maybe they’ll treat me for free." While doctors won’t refuse emergency care, you will be billed for it afterward.

Practical steps on how to act in the Georgian healthcare system in different scenarios are considered separately — this knowledge will help you not to get confused and do everything correctly so that the insurance covers the maximum expenses. The comparative data provided for other countries show that the situation in Georgia is largely typical for the region, and the global principle of  "Uninsured tourists pay out of pocket"  works everywhere.

A final practical piece of advice: when you arrive in Georgia, get at least a minimum insurance policy for a year — this can be done online in one day, but then you will be protected from unexpected expenses. As expats note, even a simple policy for $ 100−150 per year will pay for itself if you encounter at least one health problem.

Health is the key to a pleasant stay in the country, and insurance is your reliable companion that will relieve many worries. May your travels and life in Georgia be safe!