Purpose
This guide explains the Eenmanszaak (sole proprietorship) structure in Suriname. It is intended for individual entrepreneurs planning to start a business without partners or complex corporate structures.
What this page covers:
- Legal characteristics and requirements
- Registration process
- Tax obligations
- Liability considerations
- Practical guidance for implementation
Who this is for:
- Solo entrepreneurs and freelancers
- Service providers (consultants, designers, etc.)
- Small retail or trade businesses
- Individuals testing business concepts
Context & Assumptions
Regional scope: This guide applies to Suriname's legal framework.
Business size: Designed for individual entrepreneurs and small-scale operations.
Prerequisites: This content assumes you have decided a sole proprietorship is appropriate for your business. For structures with partners or limited liability, see Partnership or N.V..
Core Guidance
Legal Characteristics
An Eenmanszaak has these defining characteristics:
- Single owner: Only one person can own the business
- No separate legal entity: The owner and business are legally identical
- Unlimited personal liability: Owner is personally liable for all business debts
- Full management control: Owner makes all business decisions without partners or boards
Registration Requirements
Required Documentation
- Valid Surinamese ID or passport
- Proof of business address (utility bill or rental agreement)
- Business activity description
- Basic business information
Registration Steps
- Select business name: Choose a unique name (verify availability with KKF)
- Register with KKF: Complete Chamber of Commerce registration
- Obtain tax number: Register for tax obligations
- Apply for required licenses: Industry-specific permits if applicable
Estimated timeline: 2-4 weeks
Typical cost range: Low (primarily government registration fees)
Tax Obligations
Personal Income Tax
- Business income taxed as personal income
- Progressive tax rates (consult current tax authority rates)
- Quarterly or annual filing depending on income level
BTW (Belasting Toegevoegde Waarde)
- Registration required if annual turnover exceeds SRD 150,000
- Monthly or quarterly filing and payment
Payroll Taxes
- Required if employing staff
- Includes employee income tax withholding and social security contributions
Liability Considerations
Unlimited personal liability means:
- Personal assets (home, savings, vehicles) can be used to satisfy business debts
- No legal distinction between personal and business obligations
- Personal credit score directly affects business financing
Risk mitigation strategies:
- Maintain adequate insurance (liability, property, professional indemnity)
- Keep business and personal finances separate
- Use contracts to define scope and limit exposure
- Consider conversion to limited liability structure if risk increases
Common Pitfalls
Mixing personal and business finances: Even though legally the same entity, maintain separate bank accounts and clear records for tax purposes and financial clarity.
Inadequate insurance: Many entrepreneurs underestimate risk exposure. Evaluate insurance needs based on your industry and activities.
Operating without proper registration: Starting operations before completing KKF and tax registration creates legal and financial risks.
Ignoring liability exposure: If your business involves significant financial risk (manufacturing, construction, large contracts), an Eenmanszaak may expose personal assets unnecessarily.
Poor record keeping: Maintain detailed financial records for tax compliance and business decision-making.
Practical Considerations
When an Eenmanszaak Is Appropriate
Good fit for:
- Service-based businesses (consulting, design, writing)
- Small retail or e-commerce operations
- Professional practices (accounting, legal, healthcare)
- Businesses with manageable liability exposure
- Testing business concepts with minimal initial investment
Not appropriate for:
- High-risk industries (construction, manufacturing, transportation)
- Businesses planning to raise external investment
- Ventures requiring multiple founders or partners
- Operations needing significant startup capital
Typical Timeline
- Week 1: Business planning, name selection, document preparation
- Week 2-3: KKF registration and approval
- Week 3-4: Tax registration and license applications
- Week 4+: Begin operations
Ongoing Obligations
- Annual KKF registration renewal
- Quarterly or annual tax filings
- Maintenance of financial records
- Renewal of business licenses as required
Growth and Conversion
If your business grows beyond the Eenmanszaak structure, you can convert to:
- Partnership (VOF): When bringing in business partners
- N.V. or BV: For limited liability protection or external investment
- Stichting: For non-profit activities
Conversion requires legal and tax planning. Consult professionals before transitioning.
Related Documentation
Prerequisites:
Next steps:
Alternative structures:
Disclaimer
This documentation is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Business structure decisions have significant legal and financial implications. Consult with qualified legal and tax professionals in Suriname before making decisions.