Guyana

When traveling to Guyana, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if you must obtain work authorization. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Guyana, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend meetings and conferences
• » Sign contracts
• » Perform consulting

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

Nationals from many countries, including Australia, Brazil, and the United States, are eligible for a visa waiver and are not required to obtain a visa to enter Guyana to perform business activities. If your nationality is not eligible for a visa waiver, a Business Visa from a Guyanese Consulate or Embassy must be obtained prior to travel. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to determine your eligibility for a visa waiver or a Business Visa.

What types of activities require work authorization?

Business visitors are permitted to engage in professional, hands-on activities for a short duration in Guyana without work authorization, provided that the work is not remunerated in Guyana. Please consult with your immigration counsel before traveling to confirm your eligibility for a short-term work authorization exemption.

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

The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications and on the nature and duration of your work. The most common type of work authorization for Guyana is:

• » Work Permit

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

Guyana is a member of the Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM), and nationals from CARICOM member states may work and reside in Guyana without a work permit. Registrations with the CARICOM representative from the country of nationality and other formalities will be required for these nationals to reside in Guyana. Please consult with your immigration counsel prior to travel to confirm your eligibility for a long-term work authorization exemption.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the 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.