Essential Things to Know for International Visitors

Passports & visas

• All international visitors to Georgia need a valid passport.
• Depending on your country of origin, a visa or ESTA is required. Use the U.S. State Department's “Visa Wizard” tool to understand which visa category might be appropriate. 

Customs & immigration

• You will need to declare everything you bring in from abroad, including food and alcohol. Before your trip, check the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol website for information on what can and cannot be brought into the U.S.

Major airports 

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) is Georgia’s primary international gateway. 

Connecting to the rest of Georgia 

• Georgia has several regional airports, including those in Savannah, Augusta, Columbus, and Valdosta.
• Ground transportation options from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport include rental cars, hotel shuttles, MARTA rail, taxis, and ridesharing. 

Getting around Georgia 

• Public transportation options in Georgia include Amtrak, Greyhound, and MARTA (only in metro Atlanta).
• Local trolleys and bus services are also available in cities like Savannah and Athens. 

Driving tips 

Georgia drives on the right side of the road. Most visitors rent cars to explore beyond cities. International driver’s permits are recommended for some travelers. Check with the Georgia Department of Driver Services for more information.

Rideshare, taxis, & more 

• Uber and Lyft ridesharing services are widely available in Georgia. 
• Rentable scooters and bikes are available in some cities and urban areas.

Emergency services

Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical help.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for international visitors.

Healthcare access

• Pharmacies
  • Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart are widely available and are often open late; some are open 24/7. Grocery stores also typically have pharmacies.
  • Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, allergy medicines, cold remedies, etc.) are available without a prescription.
  • Prescriptions from a U.S. doctor are required for most other medications. Foreign prescriptions typically cannot be filled.
• Seeking care
  • Urgent care centers are walk-in clinics for non-life-threatening issues (minor injuries, flu symptoms, infections). No appointment is needed. They usually have shorter waits than hospitals and are open evenings and weekends.
  • Hospitals
    • In a serious emergency, dial 911 to request an ambulance.
    • Emergency rooms (ERs) are open 24/7, but they can be expensive without travel insurance.
    • Bring ID and proof of insurance if you need treatment.

General safety tips

Georgia is generally safe for tourists, but basic urban precautions are advised.

• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark.
• Keep valuables secure. (Do not leave valuable items in rental cars!)
• Watch your belongings in crowded places. 
• If unsure about a neighborhood, ask your hotel staff or hosts for advice on areas to avoid.

Currency 

The United States dollar (USD) is the official currency of the U.S.

Cash and credit cards

Credit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases. Some businesses do not accept cash, while some may only accept cash. It is advisable to have both on hand. Some small bills ($1, $5) are recommended for tipping or parking/valet charges. 

Taxes 

Sales tax is not included in sticker prices. Sales tax amounts vary by location and are generally 7-9%.

Mobile phones

Consider paying for international roaming service or using a U.S. SIM card in your phone during your trip to Georgia.

Wi-Fi 

Many hotels, restaurants, and airports offer free Wi-Fi.

Seasonal weather

Georgia's summers are hot and humid, and its winters are mild. The mountains may be cooler than the coastal and central regions. Learn more about Georgia weather.

Essential items

• Sunscreen and insect repellent (especially for outdoor trips)
• Comfortable walking shoes and layers for varying temperatures
• Travel umbrella or light rain jacket, especially in spring and summer

Electronics & charging

Georgia (and the U.S.) uses 120V power and Type A/B plugs. Bring a travel adapter and voltage converter if your devices are not compatible.

Southern hospitality

Friendly, polite interactions are common.

Language

English is the official and primary language. 

Tipping culture

Tipping 15–20% is expected in restaurants, taxis, salons, and for hotel staff.

Dress code

Casual dress is common, but some upscale restaurants and venues may require more polished attire. Check before you go.

Public behavior

Smoking is banned in most indoor public places.

Georgia is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).

Georgia Visitor Information Centers

Georgia has nine official state Visitor Information Centers. They are located on interstate highways in Augusta, Columbus, Lavonia, Ringgold, Savannah, St. Marys, Tallapoosa, Valdosta, and West Point. Most cities and towns also have welcome centers or visitor information centers. Visit the Georgia Visitor Information Centers page for hours and contact information for state, local, and regional centers.

Local Convention & Visitors Bureaus

For information about destinations across Georgia, visit our local destination marketing and partner organizations.

Local events & festivals

Georgia events are known for their fun atmosphere, great food, entertainment, shopping, and activities. Check our calendar of events to help plan your trip.