Visa Types
Suriname Permanent Residency Guide
How you can immigrate to Suriname, how to protect yourself from Fraud and What to expect after you arrive in Suriname.
Key Points for Suriname PR Visa >>>
Do you need a visa to travel to Suriname?
Yes, Indians need visa to travel to Suriname.
Suriname visa application is made online or offline?
This visa application must be made online through the VFS website.
Do I need to give biometrics?
No, biometrics are not required to obtain a visa.
Is there an interview required to obtain a Suriname visa?
No, an interview is not mandatory for most common visa types for Indians.
What is the maximum length of stay permitted on a PR visa?
You can live indefinitely on a permanent resident (PR) visa.
What kind of visa will we acquire from Suriname?
It will be a physical sticker visa, which will be affixed to a page in your passport.
Current Visa fees: (Updated on 01-10-2024)
|
Application Type |
Single/Multiple |
Validity |
Maximum Duration of Stay |
Fees |
|
|
Entry Fee |
Single Entry |
None |
90 days |
USD 50 |
EUR 50 |
|
Business Visa |
Multiple Entry |
3 months |
90 days |
USD 100 |
EUR 85 |
|
Business Visa |
Multiple Entry |
5 years |
90 days |
USD 360 |
EUR 305 |
|
Business Visa |
Multiple Entry (USA Passport Holders) |
5 years |
90 days |
USD 160 |
- |
|
Tourist Visa - 3 months |
Multiple Entry |
3 months |
90 days |
USD 60 |
EUR 50 |
|
Tourist Visa - 1 Year |
Multiple Entry |
1 year |
90 days |
USD 210 |
EUR 175 |
|
Transit Visa |
Single Entry |
3 days |
3 days |
USD 15 |
EUR 10 |
|
Short Stay (MKV) |
Single Entry |
3 months |
90 days |
USD 45 |
EUR 40 |
Note:
- You can pay the fees using a MasterCard, Visa, or Maestro credit/debit card. The card doesn’t need to be in your name, but it must be "3D Secure" and enabled for international transactions.
- The E-Visa or Entry Fee can only be paid in US Dollars (US$) or Euros (€).
- There is a service fee of US$ 18.00 or €17.00 for all application types.
- If you experience any issues with transactions, contact the Help Desk. Do not create a new application or make a new payment unless advised. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Business, and International Cooperation Suriname is not responsible for extra payments, and no refund will be given for incomplete transactions.
Step-by-step guide
Let us walk you through the process
- Identify the right visa type for your visit to Suriname—whether it's for tourism, business, or visiting family. Picking the correct type is crucial for success. Understand the requirements and procedures for a smooth application.
- If staying over 90 days, including for studies and work, you need an Authorization for Temporary Stay (MKV) from Suriname's Ministry of Justice and Police.
- Tourist or business visas don't work for stays over 90 days.
- Gather necessary documents, like filling out the KV form, having a valid passport, colored passport copies, proof of funds, valid health insurance, and recent passport photos meeting specific requirements.
- Schedule an embassy appointment if needed.
- Submit your application and documents in person or by courier.
- Ensure documents are translated if required.
- Pay the non-refundable MKV processing fee at a designated bank.
- Pay the visa fee at the embassy after approval.
- Processing times vary but usually take several weeks.
- Check your application status online or contact the embassy.
- Once approved, pick up your passport with the visa stamp from the Embassy or Consulate.
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
When applying for Permanent Residence visa in Suriname, you will generally need to provide a comprehensive set of documents to support your application. The following checklist covers the most common documents needed:
- Application Form:
- Complete and signed application form for permanent residency.
- Passport:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended period of stay.
- Passport Photos:
- Recent passport-sized photographs with the specified dimensions.
- Birth Certificate:
- Original birth certificate or a certified copy.
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable):
- If married, provide the original marriage certificate or a certified copy.
- Police Clearance Certificate:
- A police clearance certificate from the home country and any other country of residence for the past few years.
- Medical Certificate:
- A medical certificate issued by an approved medical practitioner indicating good health and free from contagious diseases.
- Proof of Financial Means:
- Bank statements or other financial documents demonstrating the ability to support oneself financially during the stay.
- Proof of Accommodation:
- Evidence of a permanent address in Suriname, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.
- Employment Records (if applicable):
- Employment letters or contracts indicating the nature and duration of the employment, salary details, and any relevant work permits.
- Educational Qualifications:
- Academic certificates and transcripts, especially if the application is based on educational qualifications.
- Language Proficiency Certificate:
- Proof of proficiency in the official language of Suriname, if applicable.
- National ID Card:
- A copy of the national ID card from the home country.
- Proof of Integration (if applicable):
- Documents demonstrating integration into Surinamese society, such as participation in community activities, language courses, etc.
- Power of Attorney (if using a representative):
- If someone is representing you during the application process, a duly signed power of attorney.
- Application Fee Payment Receipt:
- Proof of payment of the required fees for the permanent residency application.
- Any Additional Supporting Documents:
- Any additional documents requested by the immigration authorities or specified in the application guidelines.
Note: It’s essential to note that document requirements may vary, and it is advisable to check with the Surinamese immigration authorities or consulate for the most up-to-date and specific requirements for permanent residency applications.
- Self-Employment and Business Ownership:
- Completed application form for self-employment or business ownership.
- Business plan outlining the nature of the business, financial projections, and employment generation.
- Proof of business registration in Suriname.
- Financial statements and tax returns for the business.
- Evidence of investment in the business.
- Resume or curriculum vitae.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Investment:
- Completed investment visa application form.
- Proof of substantial financial investment in Suriname.
- Bank statements or financial statements to demonstrate the source of funds.
- Business plan related to the investment.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Marriage to a Surinamese Citizen:
- Completed spouse visa application form.
- Copy of the Surinamese spouse's identification documents.
- Marriage certificate.
- Proof of genuine relationship (photos, joint bank accounts, etc.).
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Family Reunification:
- Completed family reunification visa application form.
- Proof of relationship (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.).
- Sponsorship letter from the family member in Suriname.
- Copy of the family member's identification documents in Suriname.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Student Visa to Permanent Residency:
- Completed permanent residency application form.
- Proof of completion of studies in Suriname.
- Employment history or job offer in Suriname.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Highly Skilled Professionals:
- Completed application form for highly skilled professionals.
- Relevant academic and professional qualifications.
- Employment contract or job offer from a Surinamese company.
- Resume or curriculum vitae.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Special Categories:
- Completed application form for the specific category.
- Documents specific to the chosen special category (consult with the immigration authorities for details).
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
- Long-term Residency through Continuous Stay:
- Evidence of continuous legal residence in Suriname for the required period.
- Completed application form for long-term residency.
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Police clearance certificate from home country.
- Health certificate.
Note: Always double-check with the Surinamese immigration authorities or consulate to ensure that you have the most current and accurate information for your specific situation.
VISA APPLICATION FORMS
Before submitting your visa application, please review the list of required documents carefully. The guidelines provided on this website will assist you in preparing your documents accurately, reducing the chances of your application being rejected due to incorrect or incomplete documents.
Suriname Temporary Stay (MKV) Application Form
- If you’re a foreigner requiring a visa for over 90 days in Suriname, excluding Surinamese origin, apply for an Authorization for Temporary Stay (MKV) at least 3 months before your planned departure.
- Note that you can’t apply for MKV through the e-Visa/e-Tourist Card website. MKV is the initial approval step, not a visa.
Republic of Suriname Application for visa
- To obtain a KV (Temporary Stay) visa, you must first secure an approved MKV from the Ministry of Justice and Police in Suriname, not the Embassy.
- Your documents will be forwarded to Suriname for evaluation by the Ministry of Justice and Police.
- After the Consular Affairs officer approves your MKV application, you can then proceed to apply for the Temporary Stay (KV) visa, granting entry into Suriname.
VISA APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
The process for applying for a Permanent Residence visa in Suriname typically involves the following steps:
- Initial Temporary Stay (MKV):
- Obtain an MKV (Authorization for Temporary Stay): This allows you to legally reside in Suriname for a limited period (initially two years, renewable). Apply through the Surinamese embassy or consulate in your home country, providing documents like employment contracts, financial means proof, and health certificates.
- Temporary Stay Visa (KV):
- Secure a Temporary Stay (KV) visa: Once your MKV is approved, apply for a KV visa that enables you to enter and remain in Suriname during the MKV validity period.
- Maintain Residence and Secure Extensions:
- Register with the authorities: Within two weeks of arrival, register with the Ministry of Justice and Police in Paramaribo and obtain the final stamps for your MKV.
- Renewing your MKV: Timely renew your MKV every two years, four months before expiry, maintaining valid residency in Suriname.
- Eligibility for Permanent Residency:
- Five years of legal residence: After five consecutive years of holding a valid MKV, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency.
- Permanent Residency Application:
- Submit application: Contact the Ministry of Justice and Police to initiate the application process.
- Documentation: Provide documents like passport, birth certificate, proof of residence in Suriname, financial statements, police clearance certificates, and any relevant supporting documents.
- Background checks: Be prepared for thorough background checks and interviews by the relevant authorities.
- Approval and Residence Card:
- Final decision: The Ministry of Justice and Police will assess your application and grant or deny permanent residency.
- Resident Card: If approved, you’ll receive a Resident Card (Verblijfskaart), granting you unrestricted residency rights in Suriname.
Note:
- Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Always check with the Surinamese authorities for the latest information.
- Consider seeking professional guidance: Immigration lawyers or consultants can help navigate the complexities of the process and ensure proper documentation.
- Self-Employment and Business Ownership:
- Individuals can achieve permanent residency by establishing a successful business in Suriname.
- Requirements include submitting a detailed business plan, financial projections, and demonstrating potential economic benefits to Suriname.
- Suited for those with entrepreneurial skills aiming to contribute to the local economy.
- Investment:
- While Suriname may not have a formal investment program for residency, explore opportunities for significant investments that may lead to long-term residency.
- Marriage to a Surinamese Citizen:
- Spouses of Surinamese citizens have a streamlined path to permanent residency.
- Necessary documentation includes proof of a valid marriage certificate and evidence of cohabitation in Suriname.
- Offers the advantage of family unity and potential cultural immersion.
- Family Reunification:
- Individuals with close family members who are permanent residents or citizens of Suriname can explore obtaining residency through family reunification.
- Student Visa to Permanent Residency:
- Check if Suriname allows students, after completing studies and meeting specific criteria, to apply for permanent residency.
- Highly Skilled Professionals:
- Suriname actively seeks skilled professionals in fields like medicine, engineering, and education.
- Qualifying professionals can obtain permanent residency by meeting specific qualifications and securing employment with a Surinamese company.
- Ideal for professionals seeking career opportunities and residency in Suriname.
- Special Categories:
- Investigate if there are special provisions for specific groups, such as refugees or stateless persons, to obtain residency in Suriname.
- Long-term Residency through Continuous Stay:
- Although not a formal program, explore if Suriname offers long-term residency for individuals who have continuously lived and worked in the country for an extended period.
Note:
- Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Always check with the Surinamese authorities for the latest information.
- Consider seeking professional guidance: Immigration lawyers or consultants can help navigate the complexities of the process and ensure proper documentation.