By Ivan Cairo
Caribbean Net News Suriname Correspondent
Email: ivan@caribbeannetnews.com

PARAMARIBO, Suriname; The Council of Ministers in Suriname has recently sanctioned a bill to facilitate free movement of CARICOM nationals, but approval from parliament is still necessary before this legislation takes effect. The legislation was submitted by the Ministry of Justice and Police.

Suriname signed the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas on July 15, 2001, but until now the national legislation has not been in line with the articles 45 and 46, which govern the free movement of CARICOM nationals.

A press release from the Ministry of Justice states that the proposed bill is aiming at securing the rights and guarantees of CARICOM nationals stipulated in the revised treaty. The new legislation also includes the CARICOM Skills National Certificate, which facilitates working and living in member states.

However, in anticipation of the new legislation the authorities were already enforcing agreements within the regional body regarding the coming into being of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy.

On entering Suriname to live and work, CARICOM nationals are required to show adequate travel documents, medical insurance and a good conduct certificate. Initially all CARICOM nationals are allowed a maximum stay of six months on arrival in the country.

“Individuals who want to stay longer, in accordance with the Foreigners Act, should submit an application,” said the ministry in its press release. The bill is currently being sent to the National Assembly, Suriname’s parliament for approval.

Recently the government started a campaign to inform groups that are eligible for a CARICOM Skilled National Certificate of the benefits and procedures. According to officials, a limited number of Surinamese nationals have so far submitted applications for a certificate.