Suriname residence permit (verblijfsvergunning)

Visa-required foreigners who intend to stay in Suriname for more than three months must first apply for an authorisation for short stay (MKV) at the Surinamese embassy or consulate in their country of origin, under article 3 of the Aliens Act 1991 and article 12 of the Aliens Decree 1995. The documents for an MKV are the same as for a residence permit, and because the request is made abroad, the later residence assessment in Suriname is faster.

Foreigners from countries with which Suriname has a visa abolition arrangement, and citizens of other CARICOM states, are exempt from the MKV: they register with the Aliens Service after arrival and then apply for residence during their legal stay. If you are unsure which route applies to your nationality, confirm it with a Surinamese embassy or consulate.

A residence permit application includes a petition addressed to the Minister of Justice and Police, a revenue stamp of SRD 1.50, a copy of the used pages of the passport, proof of means of support showing how the foreigner will earn an income, and a deposit receipt for USD 150 or the equivalent in Surinamese dollars at the Central Bank of Suriname's daily rate. The Ministry publishes separate document lists for people of Surinamese origin and for other foreigners.

Applications are filed at the counter of the Aliens Affairs department, in the Ministry of Public Works building at mr. J. Lachmonstraat 166-168, Paramaribo; people intending to live in the Nickerie district apply at the District Commissioner's office there. Holders of a residence permit must apply for renewal at least three months before it expires.

Foreigners of Surinamese origin, such as people born in Suriname who now hold another nationality or children of Surinamese-born parents, and their spouses and minor children, are exempt from the MKV. Because of their special bond with Suriname, they can apply after arrival for residence for a fixed period of up to two years or for an indefinite period.