Suriname
Summary
Following the protest on 17 February 2023, the authorities have announced that there is another planned protest in downtown Paramaribo and surrounding areas on 24 March. Security has heightened around the city. Our advice to British Nationals in Suriname is to avoid large gatherings, observe local restrictions, monitor local news and speak to local law enforcement if concerned about your safety.
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Suriname’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
At approximately 10:00 on 17 February 2023, a large group of protesters stormed the National Assembly building and other premises around Independence Square in downtown Paramaribo, in the vicinity of the Torarica Hotel. Local authorities have imposed a 6pm to 6am curfew for downtown Parimaribo which will remain in place until further notice. See link to Suriname government statement on curfew.
The British Embassy in Guyana is closely monitoring the situation. Our advice for British Nationals in Suriname is to avoid large gatherings, observe local restrictions, monitor local news and speak to local law enforcement if concerned about your safety.
Consular support may be limited in Suriname as there is no British Embassy office. However, the British High Commission in Georgetown, Guyana, can provide consular support.
If you are visiting Suriname you will need an e-visa or e-tourist card. See Visas
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides appropriate cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
Most visits are trouble-free, but burglary, armed robbery and violent crime occur in Paramaribo and in outlying areas. See Crime
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Suriname, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
Following the protest on 17 February 2023, the authorities have announced that there is another planned protest in downtown Paramaribo and surrounding areas on 24 March. Security has heightened around the city. Our advice to British Nationals in Suriname is to avoid large gatherings, observe local restrictions, monitor local news and speak to local law enforcement if concerned about your safety.
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Suriname’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
At approximately 10:00 on 17 February 2023, a large group of protesters stormed the National Assembly building and other premises around Independence Square in downtown Paramaribo, in the vicinity of the Torarica Hotel. Local authorities have imposed a 6pm to 6am curfew for downtown Parimaribo which will remain in place until further notice. See link to Suriname government statement on curfew.
The British Embassy in Guyana is closely monitoring the situation. Our advice for British Nationals in Suriname is to avoid large gatherings, observe local restrictions, monitor local news and speak to local law enforcement if concerned about your safety.
Consular support may be limited in Suriname as there is no British Embassy office. However, the British High Commission in Georgetown, Guyana, can provide consular support.
If you are visiting Suriname you will need an e-visa or e-tourist card. See Visas
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides appropriate cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
Most visits are trouble-free, but burglary, armed robbery and violent crime occur in Paramaribo and in outlying areas. See Crime
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Suriname, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
Update history
2024-11-08 16:08
Updated information on visa requirements (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2024-01-11 12:13
This travel advice has been rewritten to make it easier to read and understand.
2023-12-21 16:24
Information on the risks of demonstrations (‘Safety and security’ page).
2023-09-08 16:39
Removal of Covid-19 restrictions and information on February protests (‘Summary’, ‘Coronavirus’ and ‘Entry requirements’ pages).
2023-06-22 11:49
Information about the global terrorism risks to British nationals abroad on all FCDO travel advice pages
2023-03-17 13:32
Updated information on protests (‘Summary’ page).
2023-02-17 21:24
Updated information on protests (‘Summary’ page)
2022-09-02 15:37
Updated information on UK Emergency Travel Documents, with link to Suriname E-Visa website (‘Entry requirements’ page).
2022-07-01 20:25
Update on the entry requirements for tourists (‘Entry Requirements’ page)