Suriname EOR & PEO
Hire in Suriname without a local entity today
As a Global EOR & PEO service provider, we pride ourselves on our global reach, in-country knowledge, and ability to swiftly and efficiently mobilize workers around the world. Our robust EOR/PEO covers everything from global HR, payroll, compliance, in-country support, immigration, visas, and more.
Get started and hire in Suriname today with Gibson Watts Global.
DID YOU KNOW
- Suriname is the only Dutch-speaking country in South America, reflecting its colonial history under the Netherlands.
- Over 90% of Suriname’s land area is covered by dense tropical rainforest, making it one of the most forested nations on Earth.
- The country’s population is one of the most ethnically diverse in the world, with people of Indian, African, Javanese, Indigenous, Chinese, and European descent all living together in harmony.
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Suriname EOR Services
Expanding in South America’s Hidden Gem
Suriname, nestled on the northern coast of South America, offers a unique environment for international companies looking to expand into a developing yet resource-rich market. With a growing economy, driven by sectors such as mining, agriculture, and energy, Suriname presents an emerging opportunity for businesses seeking a foothold in the region.
However, navigating Suriname’s employment laws and administrative processes can be challenging for foreign businesses. Partnering with Gibson Watts Global as your Employer of Record (EOR) in Suriname simplifies the process. We handle payroll, tax compliance, and employee management so your organisation can focus on growth while staying fully compliant with Surinamese employment regulations.
Working in Suriname
Financial Year Dates
Suriname’s financial year runs from January 1st to December 31st.
Minimum Wage
As of 2025, the national minimum wage in Suriname is SRD 40 per hour.
Standard working hours
The standard workweek in Suriname is 40 hours, typically eight hours per day over five days.
Overtime
Overtime is compensated at a minimum of 150% of the employee’s normal hourly wage. For work performed on public holidays or rest days, the rate increases to 200%. Overtime should not exceed 12 hours per week unless specifically authorised.
Holiday Allowance
Employees are entitled to at least 14 working days of paid annual leave after one year of service. The entitlement increases with seniority. Public holidays are additional to annual leave.
Sick Leave
Employees are entitled to up to six weeks of paid sick leave, provided they supply a medical certificate. During this period, the employer continues to pay wages.
Maternity & Paternity Leave
Female employees are entitled to 16 weeks of paid maternity leave, typically divided into six weeks before and ten weeks after childbirth. Fathers are entitled to three days of paid paternity leave.
Public Holidays
Suriname observes several national holidays each year, including:
- New Year’s Day
- Holi Phagwa
- Good Friday
- Easter Monday
- Labour Day
- Independence Day
- Christmas Day
- Boxing Day
- Eid al-Fitr (date varies)
- Diwali (date varies)
Social Contributions
In Suriname, both employers and employees are required to make social security contributions covering pensions, health insurance, and accident insurance.
Employers:
- Social Security (pension and health): approximately 13.5% of gross salary
Employees:
- Social Security: approximately 5% of gross salary
Employers are also responsible for contributions to workplace accident insurance.
Income Tax
Suriname applies progressive income tax rates on personal income. For 2025, the rates are as follows:
- Income up to SRD 48,000: 0%
- SRD 48,000 – SRD 132,000: 8%
- SRD 132,000 – SRD 264,000: 18%
- SRD 264,000 – SRD 528,000: 28%
- Over SRD 528,000: 38%
Residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Surinamese-sourced income.
Health Care
Suriname provides both public and private healthcare services. The public system offers basic coverage through the State Health Foundation (SZF), funded by social contributions. Many employers provide supplementary private insurance to give employees access to a wider range of services and faster treatment.
Visas
Foreign nationals wishing to work in Suriname must obtain the appropriate visa or work permit. Common options include:
- Work Permit: Required for foreign employees before starting employment. Applications are processed through the Ministry of Labour.
- Business Visa: Allows short-term entry for business meetings or investment activities.
- Residence Permit: Issued for long-term stays or employment contracts exceeding one year.
All work-related visas require sponsorship from a registered Surinamese employer.
13th salary?
Suriname does not have a statutory requirement for a 13th salary. However, many employers provide an annual bonus or performance-based payment, particularly around the end of the year.
Learn more about 13th and 14th salaries here: 13th Salary Guide
Cultural Information
Suriname’s culture is a vibrant blend of African, Asian, Indigenous, and European influences. The country’s cuisine reflects this diversity, featuring dishes such as roti, pom (a baked root dish), and bami (noodles with vegetables and meat).
Music and festivals play a central role in Surinamese life, with celebrations like Holi, Diwali, and Eid observed alongside Christmas and Independence Day. Paramaribo’s colonial architecture and lively street markets offer a glimpse into the country’s multicultural spirit, where unity through diversity defines the national identity.