United States Visa RequirementsFor Suriname passport holders
Citizens of Suriname require a B1/B2 visa to visit the United States. The US Embassy in Paramaribo processes applications, and the $185 non-refundable MRV fee and an in-person interview are mandatory.
Suriname passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply at the US Embassy in Paramaribo (165 Kristalstraat). Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview appointment through the embassy website. The fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
DS-160 application form
Completed online at ceac.state.gov before scheduling interview
Valid passport
At least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
MRV fee receipt
$185 USD non-refundable visa application fee
Passport photo
2x2 inch (51x51mm), white background, taken within last 6 months
Interview appointment confirmation
Scheduled at the US Embassy website
Proof of financial means
Bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns showing ability to fund trip
Proof of ties to home country
Employment letter, property documents, family ties, or enrollment proof
Travel itinerary Recommended
Intended dates and purpose of travel to the US
Current Travel Situation
Suriname to United States: What You Need to Know
Suriname and the United States maintain diplomatic relations, with a Surinamese community present in the US, primarily in Florida. Suriname is a former Dutch colony and many Surinamese also hold Dutch passports, which would qualify them for the Visa Waiver Program. However, Surinamese passport holders without Dutch citizenship require a B1/B2 visa. The embassy in Paramaribo handles applications, though wait times can vary significantly. Suriname's economy has strong ties to the Netherlands and the Caribbean region.
How to Get There
Surinam Airways flies from Paramaribo (PBM) with connections to US cities, typically via Amsterdam or through Caribbean hubs. Caribbean Airlines and KLM also serve routes with US connections. Direct flights to the US are limited, so most travelers connect through Amsterdam (AMS) or Port of Spain (POS) before reaching Miami (MIA) or New York (JFK).
Money & Banking
The US uses the dollar. Budget $150 to $200 per day for mid-range travel in major US cities. Tipping is expected: 15 to 20% at restaurants, $1 to $2 for hotel porters. Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere in the US, and ATMs are plentiful.
Practical Tips
Check current interview wait times at travel.state.gov/waitingtimes. Fill in the DS-160 carefully with all details consistent with your supporting documents. Demonstrate strong ties to Suriname: employment, property, bank accounts, and family. Note: if you hold a Dutch passport in addition to your Surinamese passport, you may be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) instead. Interview in Paramaribo and dress professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Surinamese citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Surinamese passport holders require a B1/B2 nonimmigrant visa to enter the United States. Note: Surinamese residents who also hold Dutch citizenship can use their Dutch passport to enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program with an ESTA.
Where do Surinamese citizens apply for a US visa?
Applications are processed at the US Embassy in Paramaribo, located at 165 Kristalstraat. Complete the DS-160 at ceac.state.gov, pay the $185 MRV fee, and schedule your interview through the embassy website.
How much does the US visa cost for Surinamese applicants?
The non-refundable MRV fee is $185 USD, paid before your interview is scheduled. This fee is not refunded if the visa is denied.
If I hold a Dutch passport in addition to a Surinamese passport, do I need a B1/B2 visa?
No. The Netherlands is a Visa Waiver Program member, so if you hold a valid Dutch (Netherlands) passport, you can apply for an ESTA at esta.cbp.dhs.gov and travel to the US without a B1/B2 visa for stays up to 90 days. Use your Dutch passport for US travel.
What airlines fly from Suriname to the United States?
Surinam Airways and KLM fly from Paramaribo (PBM) with connections to US cities, typically via Amsterdam (AMS) or through Caribbean hubs like Port of Spain (POS). Direct flights to the US are limited. Total travel time to New York is approximately 12 to 15 hours depending on connections.
How long can Surinamese stay in the US with a B1/B2 visa?
US Customs and Border Protection officers set your authorized length of stay at entry, typically up to 6 months. The B1/B2 visa itself (if approved) is usually valid for 10 years with multiple entries.
How do I demonstrate ties to Suriname for the US visa interview?
Present employment documentation, property ownership deeds, bank statements showing regular income, and evidence of family responsibilities in Suriname. Strong financial and professional ties significantly improve your chances of approval.