Exchange & Transfers: how it works in Georgia — first-hand

From real experience

• For obtaining a Georgian SIM card, Magti is a recommended provider, with offices located in city centers. To facilitate communication and currency exchange upon arrival, purchase a small amount of Georgian Lari (GEL) at the airport. For better exchange rates, exchange your Russian Rubles (RUB) in the city center. It is advisable to compare rates at multiple exchange offices. Consider using virtual bank cards for initial taxi payments if Russian physical cards are not accepted.
• For travelers going to Georgia, it is generally more advantageous to carry Russian Rubles (RUB) rather than US Dollars (USD) purchased in Russia for exchange into Georgian Lari (GEL). Exchanging USD obtained in Russia can result in a significant loss due to unfavorable exchange rates. Upon arrival in Georgia, exchange RUB to GEL at exchange offices in the city center for better rates. Avoid exchanging currency at the airport as rates are typically poor. Compare rates at multiple exchange offices to maximize your Lari. For immediate needs like taxi fare, exchange a small amount at the airport.
• As of mid-June 2026, Russian-issued Visa and Mastercard cards are not operational in Georgia. This includes cards from major Russian banks. Travelers should rely on cash (Georgian Lari - GEL) or cards issued by banks outside of Russia. Exchanging Russian Rubles (RUB) to GEL is possible, but it's advisable to compare exchange rates at different exchange offices for the best deal. The exchange rate for buying GEL with RUB is generally favorable, but checking multiple locations is recommended.
• When exchanging currency in Georgia, consider the current exchange rates for both USD and RUB. While USD may seem favorable, direct RUB exchange can sometimes be competitive, especially to avoid double conversion fees. Exchange rates vary significantly by location (e.g., Borjomi, Batumi, Kobuleti, roadside exchange points) and time, fluctuating based on seasonality and market conditions. Always compare rates before exchanging larger sums.
• When exchanging money in Batumi, look for places offering a favorable exchange rate. If unsure, ask locals or check multiple exchange points to compare rates. For car rentals, research reputable companies in advance or ask for recommendations from locals or fellow travelers.
• Visa and Mastercard cards issued in Belarus may not be accepted in Georgia. While cards issued outside of Russia are generally preferred, it's important to verify acceptance of specific Belarusian bank cards. Russian bank cards are confirmed to be non-functional in Georgia. Carrying Georgian Lari (GEL) in cash is the most reliable payment method. Exchanging Russian Rubles to Lari is possible, but compare rates.
• Russian rubles are exchangeable in Georgia, but rates in airports are significantly worse than in city centers (typically 30-40% difference). Carrying USD is slightly more convenient due to broader acceptance, but double conversion from RUB to USD to GEL often yields negligible savings for casual travelers. Russian bank cards (MIR, Visa, Mastercard) are not functional in Georgia.
• In Georgia, to exchange cash rubles for local currency at a favorable rate, explore exchange offices and banks in major cities. Rates can vary, so comparing options is recommended.
• International money transfers: P2P transfers between Georgian banks (TBC/BoG) and Russian bank cards carry a high risk of account suspension for the Georgian account due to AML/sanctions compliance. It is advised to avoid direct P2P transfers to Russian banks to prevent blocking of Georgian accounts.
• Western Union services in Tbilisi may primarily offer cash payouts to recipients. If you need to transfer funds directly to a bank account, explore alternative money transfer services or confirm with the specific Western Union location if direct account transfers are supported.
• Currency exchange in Georgia: Airport rates are generally unfavorable. Better exchange rates for Russian Rubles to Georgian Lari (GEL) are typically found at local markets or near railway stations. Current market rates fluctuate around 0.32-0.34 GEL per 10 RUB.
• User has opened a Credo Bank card but hasn't received the physical card yet. They are unable to top it up via T-Bank (due to sanctions affecting Golden Crown transfers) and are seeking alternative methods. T-Bank claims transfers to Georgia by card number are possible. Need clarification on whether the physical card is required for top-up or if there are other transfer options.
• Bringing USD to Georgia is more cost-effective than bringing RUB due to unfavorable exchange rates and double conversion issues. Older USD banknotes (e.g., 1996 series) are widely accepted.

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