Yes, using a VPN is legal in Georgia under current law, provided it does not facilitate illegal activities. The Georgian government permits VPNs for privacy and security but prohibits circumvention of state surveillance or content restrictions. No explicit ban exists, though compliance with data retention laws remains critical.
Key Regulations for Using a VPN in Georgia
- Data Retention Compliance: VPN providers operating in Georgia must adhere to the 2023 amendments to the Law on Electronic Communications, requiring retention of user connection logs for 12 months if classified as “electronic communication services.”
- Prohibition on State Bypass: The 2026 draft amendments to the Law on Information Security explicitly prohibit VPNs from circumventing government-mandated internet filtering, such as restrictions on illegal content or national security grounds.
- Licensing Requirements: Entities offering VPN services must register with the Georgian National Communications Commission (GNCC), as outlined in the 2024 regulatory guidelines for “telecom-related digital services.”
Failure to comply with these provisions may result in fines up to GEL 50,000 (≈USD 18,500) or service suspension. While VPNs remain legal for general use, their deployment for illicit purposes—such as hacking, fraud, or unauthorized data access—violates the Criminal Code of Georgia (Articles 232, 233). Users should verify provider adherence to local laws to mitigate legal risks.