Guyana

Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Guyana. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Guyana may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings
• Attend conferences and trade shows
• Negotiate and sign contracts
• Conduct interviews

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Guyana?

Nationals from the European Union, Canada, the US and many other countries do not require a visa to enter Guyana to conduct business activities. Nationals that require a visa to enter Guyana must obtain a Business Visa prior to travel from a Guyanese Consulate or Embassy.

Working in Guyana

What sorts of activities require a work permit?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Guyanese law. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered work in Guyana, even if conducted for a short duration.

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning or implementation
• Marketing
• Auditing

If I am traveling to Guyana for work, what type of work permit do I need?

Whether you require a work permit depends on your qualifications, whether your employer has an entity in Guyana, and the nature of your work. The most common Guyanese work visa is the Work Permit (standard work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work visa requirements?

Guyana is a member of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM); nationals from CARICOM member states may work and reside in Guyana without a work permit . Registrations with the CARICOM representative from the nationality country and other formalities will be required for these nationals to reside in Guyana.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization eligibility entail careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.