This guide explains how a criminal case affects a residence permit, which decisions are taken separately and how the defence can protect immigration status.
What this means
Criminal proceedings and immigration decisions are taken by different authorities. Even without a conviction, the migration authority may refuse to renew a residence permit on public-safety grounds; after a conviction the risk of cancellation and expulsion increases.
Questions to answer first
- What stage is the case at — investigation, trial or judgment?
- When does the residence permit expire?
- How would a plea agreement or suspended sentence affect immigration status?
- Are family, work and property ties documented?
Documents and evidence to keep
- Copies of the residence permit and earlier applications
- Decisions in the criminal case and the charge sheet
- Documents showing family, work and tax payments
- Letters from the migration authority
Applicable law
Issuing, renewing and cancelling residence permits, and expulsion, are governed by the Law of Georgia on the Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons; criminal proceedings follow the Criminal Procedure Code. Decisions in both proceedings can be appealed.
How the process usually develops
- A criminal case is opened and the migration authority is informed
- Additional checks when the residence permit is renewed
- Judgment or closure of the case
- Immigration decision and appeal
How a lawyer helps
A lawyer who is a member of the Georgian Bar Association controls statements, documents and interpretation from the first hours, takes over communication with investigators and brings the criminal, administrative and immigration sides of the case into one strategy. On GeoLawyer you can compare criminal and immigration lawyers and book an online consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Is a residence permit cancelled automatically when a criminal case starts?
No. But the migration authority may take the circumstances into account, so plan the defence early.
Can I appeal a refusal to renew my residence permit?
Yes, the refusal can be appealed administratively and in court.
Will a plea agreement affect my residence permit?
It may. Always discuss the immigration consequences with a lawyer before agreeing to a plea deal.
Sources
Official texts of Georgian legislation: Legislative Herald of Georgia (matsne.gov.ge). matsne.gov.ge
Last reviewed: 2026-10-07. This guide is general information, not legal advice.
