Retire in Georgia vs Turkey: The 2026 Freedom Comparison

Geo-arbitrage is the strategy of earning a strong currency (like USD or EUR) while living in a country with a lower cost of living. In 2026, this is the fastest way to achieve FIRE, allowing you to reduce expenses by 40-60% without lowering your quality of life.

The Freedom Clock calculates your exact 'Freedom Date' based on your savings, income, and the real-time cost of living in your target country. It accounts for 2026 inflation rates and tax laws to give you a precise timeline for early retirement.

The 'Remotely from Georgia' program has evolved into a formal Digital Nomad Residency requiring $25,000 annual income.

If you register as a 'Small Business,' you pay only 1% tax on turnover up to 500,000 GEL per year.

Citizens of ~95 countries (including US, EU, UK) can enter visa-free and stay for 365 days.

Despite rising prices, a single person can live very well on $1,200/month, including a central apartment.

Tbilisi and Batumi have excellent fiber; Georgia is a top destination for nomads due to its abundance of 'work-friendly' cafes.

Georgia is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world for travelers and expats.

Yes, and buying property worth $100k+ (threshold rising to $150k in 2026) can grant you a residence permit.

Private healthcare in Tbilisi is modern and very affordable; most expats pay out-of-pocket or use local private insurance.

Tbilisi for culture and social life; Batumi for a seaside summer vibe.

Common among the younger generation in Tbilisi; Russian is also widely understood, though Georgian is the official language.

Applicants must be aged 21–55, have a university degree, and earn at least $3,000 USD/month ($36,000 USD/year).

It is issued for 1 year and can be renewed if the income and remote work conditions still apply.

Major cities and coastal towns are generally safe, though it is wise to monitor regional stability and avoid border areas.

If you stay 183+ days, you are a tax resident. However, those providing specific digital services (software/design) to foreign clients may get an 80% tax exemption.

Private healthcare (e.g., Acıbadem, Memorial) is world-class and very affordable. Private insurance is required for the visa.

Despite high inflation, foreign currency earners find life very affordable. $1,500–$2,000 USD/month provides a high quality of life.

Fiber is common in Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya. 5G rollout is expanding, though rural speeds can vary.

The real estate investment required for citizenship remains at $400,000 USD as of early 2026.

Yes, the nomad visa allows for dependents, but each must meet individual health insurance requirements.

The Turkish residence card. It is essential for banking, hospital visits, and domestic travel within Turkey.