Guyana: New Requirements for Visa on Arrival Applicants Implemented

In a change of policy, immigration authorities at the airport are now requiring foreign nationals applying for a Visitor Visa on Arrival (VVOA) or Employment Visa on Arrival (EVOA) to show immigration agents the original visa Pre-Approval Notice issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Previously, only a copy of the pre-approval notice was required. Furthermore, applicants must now also show the agents the original Visa Application Form (a copy of which is submitted with the application to the Ministry of Home Affairs), and submit a passport-size photograph, which were not previously required. The change affects visa nationals, who must obtain a VVOA for short business trips, or an EVOA to work in Guyana and apply for a Work Permit, as applicable. Employers and foreign nationals should coordinate with their immigration professionals for delivery of the original visa Pre-Approval Notice. An authorized “meet and greet” agent will typically need to deliver this document directly at the airport.