Europe

Drug penalties

Illegal drug use (no matter what you are using) carries stiff administrative and criminal penalties including fines and long prison terms.  The penalty for smuggling drugs carries a prison term of between five to 20 years and/or heavy fines.

Identification

You should carry a copy of your passport at all times and keep the original in a safe place.

Homosexuality

Homosexuality is legal in Georgia, but is not thought widely acceptable in society.  This has not transposed into violence against homosexuals.

Photography in sensitive areas

You should refrain from photographing sensitive sites such as military bases and power installations. Always seek permission if in doubt.  You should also be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing churches and other religious sites.  If in doubt, ask prior permission.

 

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your trip.

South Ossetia and Abkhazia

Following hostilities, British nationals should note that the government of Georgia does not recognise the unilateral declarations of independence by either South Ossetia or Abkhazia and, in accordance with international law, continues to claim the right to exercise sovereignty in the two territories. The UK government, along with those of all EU member states and the United States, recognises their right to do so.

The government of Georgia is in the process of implementing legislation which would require those trading with Abkhazia and South Ossetia to hold a licence, issued by the Georgian government. This will extend to buying and selling property and to most financial transactions. Those who trade without licences may be open to penalties under Georgian civil and criminal law.

The ownership of many properties is disputed across both regions with many thousands of claims to ownership of properties from people displaced following recent conflicts. Purchase of these properties could have serious financial and legal implications.  Purchasers could face legal proceedings in the courts of Georgia, as well as attempts to enforce judgements from these courts elsewhere in the EU, including the UK.  Potential purchasers should also consider that a future settlement could have consequences for property they purchase in South Ossetia and Abkhazia (including possible restitution of the property to its original owners).