Sri Lanka Visa Guide
Complete Information for Expats, Foreign Nationals & Investors
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📋 Overview
Sri Lanka offers various visa categories for foreign nationals including tourists, business travelers, investors, digital nomads, and long-term residents. The Department of Immigration and Emigration manages all visa applications and processes.
⚠️ Important Notice
VISA POLICY UPDATED AS OF 2026. The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system has been reinstated. Nationals of 40 countries can now obtain tourist visas free of charge for 30 days. Always verify current requirements with official sources before traveling.
Tourist/Travel
Short-term visits for tourism, sightseeing, holidays, visiting friends & relatives, medical treatments, sports events, and cultural activities.
Business
Short business visits for meetings, conferences, trade, and business exploration. Valid for single, double, or multiple entries.
Residence
Long-term residence for employment, investment, education, religious work, family reunification, and special purposes.
Investment
Special investor visas for those making significant investments in Sri Lanka. Includes Golden Paradise and Digital Nomad options.
✈️ Tourist & Travel Visas (ETA)
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for most foreign nationals to enter Sri Lanka for tourism purposes. The ETA is issued online before travel.
Eligibility for FREE Tourist Visa (30 Days)
Effective from May 25, 2026, nationals of the following 40 countries can obtain tourist visas free of charge:
Additional Free Visa Countries:
- Singapore & Seychelles: 30 days free
- Maldives: 90 days free
- Children under 12 years: Free tourist visa (30 days) for all nationalities
Tourist ETA Fees
| Category | Online/Before Arrival | On Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| SAARC Countries (Tourist – 30 days, Double Entry) | US$ 20 | US$ 25 |
| All Other Countries (Tourist – 30 days, Double Entry) | US$ 50 | US$ 60 |
| Transit Visa (2 days) | Free | Free |
Tourist Visa Extension Fees
| Country Category | 30-60 Days | 61-180 Days | 181-270 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Countries (Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, Japan, etc.) | US$ 100 | US$ 150 | US$ 200 |
| United States | US$ 100 | US$ 150 | US$ 200 |
| Singapore, Maldives, Seychelles, Czech Republic | Free | US$ 150 | US$ 200 |
| All Other Countries | US$ 60 | US$ 150 | US$ 200 |
General Requirements for ETA
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival date
- Adequate funds for maintenance and return passage
- Return ticket or visa to next destination
- No criminal record
- Completed online ETA application
💼 Business Visas
Business visas are issued to foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka for business purposes for short periods. This visa may be issued for single, double, or multiple journeys.
Business ETA Fees
| Category | 30 Days (Multiple Entry) | 90 Days (Single Entry) | 90 Days (Double Entry) | 90 Days (Multiple Entry) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAARC Countries | US$ 30 | +Country Fee | 2×Country Fee | 3×Country Fee |
| All Other Countries | US$ 55 | +Country Fee | 2×Country Fee | 3×Country Fee |
Business Visa Extension Fees
| Country | Days 30-90 | Days 90-180 |
|---|---|---|
| United States | US$ 100 | – |
| All Other Countries | US$ 100 | US$ 200 |
Business Visa Uses
- Business meetings and conferences
- Trade and business exploration
- Negotiating contracts
- Attending exhibitions and trade fairs
- Market research
📝 Note
Business visa cannot be extended through online portal. Must visit Department of Immigration & Emigration in person. Business visa holders are not permitted to engage in employment.
🏠 Residence Visas
A residence visa is a permit for non-Sri Lankan nationals to obtain residence facilities for special purposes. There are multiple categories under residence visas.
Residence Visa Categories
1. Employment Category
- Government project professionals
- BOI project personnel & dependents
- Bank employees & dependents
- Private sector employees
- Colombo Port City personnel
2. Investor Category
- Foreign investors
- Business entrepreneurs
- Company directors
- Minimum investment: USD 100,000+
3. Student Category
- University students
- Government-approved institution students
- Volunteers
- Internship holders
4. Family Category
- Spouse of Sri Lankan citizen
- Foreign children of Sri Lankan parents
- Ex-Sri Lankans & dependents
- Dependants of residence visa holders
5. Special Categories
- Religious workers/Members of clergy
- NGO/INGO personnel
- Medical visa holders
- Colombo Port City Commission
- Digital Nomad Visa holders
6. Diplomatic/Official
- Diplomats & officials
- Foreign mission personnel
- UN & international organization staff
Residence Visa General Requirements
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Duly filled residence visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Health Protection Plan (HPP) certificate
- Security clearance (where applicable)
- Medical clearance report
- Sponsor/employer documents
- Police clearance certificate
- Adequate funds proof/financial statements
Residence Visa Fees (Per Year or Part Thereof)
| Visa Category | Fee (US$) |
|---|---|
| Residence Visa – Class 1 (Investors, Employees, Students, Medical, NGO, Religious, Spouse, Dependents, Port City) | 200 |
| Residence Visa – Class 2 (Ex-Sri Lankans, Spouse, Dependents) | 100 |
| Residence Visa – Class 3 (Indo-Lanka Agreement Citizens) | 100 |
| Residence Visa – Class 4 (Clergy) | 200 |
| Residence Visa – Class 5 (Foreign spouse of Sri Lankan citizen) | Free |
| Residence Visa – Class 5 (Dependent children of non-Sri Lankan spouse) | 150 |
| Residence Visa – Class 6-8 (Various spouse categories) | 100 |
| Residence Visa – Class 9 (Children of Sri Lankan parents with foreign passports) | 150 |
| Residence Visa – Class 10 (Digital Nomad) | 500 |
Validity & Renewal
- Initial residence visas are typically valid for 1 year
- Can be renewed annually subject to compliance
- Passport must have at least 2 months validity after intended stay
- Renewal applications must be submitted before expiry
- Multi-entry visa allowing re-entry during validity period
💰 Investor Visa (Golden Paradise)
Sri Lanka offers an Investor Visa program to encourage foreign nationals to invest in the country. This visa allows individuals to enter and reside in Sri Lanka while managing their investments.
Investment Requirements
| Investment Amount | Visa Duration | Annual Fee (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| USD 100,000 | 5 Years | US$ 200 |
| USD 200,000 | 10 Years | US$ 200 |
Permitted Investment Types
- Voting Shares: In companies incorporated in Sri Lanka (min. 10% of voting share capital)
- Government Securities: Treasury bills/bonds, government bonds, Central Bank securities
- Term Deposits: LKR or designated foreign currencies with licensed commercial banks
- Property: Acquisition of immovable property (subject to other laws)
- Business Operations: Opening and operating places of business as overseas company
Restricted Investment Areas
⚠️ Excluded Activities
Certain business activities are prohibited or have foreign ownership restrictions:
- Pawn broking
- Coastal fishing
- Retail trade (under USD 5M capital)
- Money lending
- Growing/processing tea, rubber, coconut, rice
- Mining non-renewable resources
- Mass communication
- Education
- Freight forwarding
- Shipping agency
- Mechanized gem mining
- Lotteries
📝 Fund Transfer Process
- Open an Inward Investment Account (IIA) with a licensed commercial bank
- Open a Visa Programme Foreign Currency Account (VPFCA)
- Transfer funds to IIA (from abroad or offshore banking)
- Invest through VPFCA as permitted
- Submit proof to immigration department
Required Documents
- Duly filled visa application form
- Request letter from applicant
- Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Investment proposal
- Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Birth certificate (for dependants)
- Security clearance form
- Medical clearance report
- Police clearance certificate (within 3 months)
- Bank confirmation letter showing VPFCA balance
Terms & Conditions
- Investment project reviewed every 2 years
- Must notify material changes within 2 months
- Comply with all immigration, tax, and legal obligations
- No political or disruptive activities
- 2 months’ written notice required to terminate investment
- 14 working days’ notice before permanent departure
- Funds repatriation follows Foreign Exchange Act rules
💻 Digital Nomad Visa
Sri Lanka offers a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) designed to attract foreign professionals who wish to live and work remotely from Sri Lanka while serving clients or companies based outside the country.
✨ Program Benefits
Position Sri Lanka as a preferred long-stay digital destination, contributing to the national economy through extended stays, tourism expenditure, and global knowledge exchange.
Eligibility Criteria
- Foreign nationals (18 years or older)
- Engaged in remote employment, freelancing, or own a business not registered in Sri Lanka
- Earns income from clients outside Sri Lanka
- Spouse and dependents can be included
Income Requirements
| Category | Minimum Monthly Income Remittance |
|---|---|
| Main Applicant | USD 2,000 |
| Each Additional Dependent (beyond 2) | USD 500 |
Visa Duration & Fees
- Duration: 1 year (renewable)
- Fee (Main Applicant): US$ 500 per year
- Fee (Spouse): US$ 500 per year
- Fee (Each Dependent): US$ 500 per year
Required Documents
- Duly filled visa application form
- Request letter from applicant
- Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Birth certificate (for dependants)
- Security clearance form
- Medical clearance report
- Police clearance certificate (within 3 months)
- International health insurance covering Sri Lanka
- Recommendation from Ministry of Digital Economy
- Proof of minimum monthly income remittance
Residency Benefits
- Reside legally in Sri Lanka for up to 12 months, renewable annually
- Open and maintain personal bank accounts in Sri Lanka
- Enter into property rental or lease agreements
- Enroll dependent children in international/private schools
- Access Sri Lankan telecommunications, internet, and utility services
- Participate in co-working spaces, ICT programs, and tourism events
Terms & Conditions
⚠️ Important Conditions
- Cannot engage in local employment within Sri Lanka
- All income must be earned from foreign sources
- No political or disruptive activities
- Notify any changes in employment, income, or dependents within 30 days
- For renewal, must provide proof of tax registration via Inland Revenue Department
- 2 months’ written notice required to terminate visa
- 14 working days’ notice before permanent departure
🏝️ My Dream Home Visa Programme
This program offers residence visas to senior foreign nationals who wish to continue prolonged stays in Sri Lanka. Currently available for extension only for existing visa holders.
📝 Program Highlights
- Residence visa valid for 2 years (renewable)
- Enjoy diverse climates and natural beauty
- Access to outdoor activities (golf, tennis, swimming, surfing, nature reserves)
- Luxurious furnished houses/flats available in coastal belt, highlands, and cities
Financial Requirements
- Fixed Deposit: US$ 15,000 or equivalent in approved foreign currency
- Monthly Remittance (Principal): US$ 1,500
- Monthly Remittance (Spouse/Dependent): US$ 750 each
- Dependents: Children under 18 years and unmarried
Required Documents
- Residence visa form with 2 passport-size color photographs
- Copy of passport/travel document
- Certified bank statement/financial documents
- Source of income proof (Pension/Superannuation)
- Police clearance certificate from Sri Lanka
- Marriage certificate (for spouse visa)
- Valid medical insurance policy applicable in Sri Lanka
Terms & Conditions
- Withdrawal of fixed deposit requires prior approval from Controller of Exchange
- Interest from fixed deposit can be used for applicant’s upkeep
- Submit half-year bank statement to immigration department
- No paid or unpaid employment permitted
- No political activities or activities sensitive to local people
- Must comply with all tax laws and pay relevant taxes
- Notify any changes in visa status or personal information
Visa Fees
- Principal Applicant: US$ 200 per year
- Spouse: US$ 200 per year
- Dependent children (over 16): US$ 200 per year
⚠️ Important Note
This program is currently available for EXTENSION ONLY for existing visa holders. New applications are not being accepted at this time. Applications processed only at Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo.
⭐ Resident Guest Scheme (RGS)
The Resident Guest Scheme offers residence visas for investors and professionals. Currently available for extension only for existing visa holders.
Two Categories
💼 Professional Category
For professionals with international expertise and recognition.
- Proof of educational, professional, and work experience
- Progress reports on relevant projects
- Commendations and awards
- Monthly Remittance: US$ 2,000 for principal, US$ 1,000 per dependent
💰 Investor Category
For foreign investors making significant contributions.
- Initial Investment: Minimum US$ 250,000
- Dependent Investment: US$ 35,000 minimum per dependent
- Invest in approved projects (BOI, listed companies, new ventures)
- Two special bank accounts (RGFCA & RGRCA)
RGS Special Bank Accounts
🏦 Account Types
- Resident Guest Foreign Currency Account (RGFCA):
- For investment funds
- Interest paid for initial 2 years (at non-resident rates)
- Withdrawal for investment purposes requires approval
- Resident Guest Rupee Currency Account (RGRCA):
- For living expenses, investment income, sale proceeds
- Outward remittances require exchange control approval
Required Documents (Renewal)
- Duly completed application form
- Request letter
- Passport copies
- Two photographs (6cm x 5cm)
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Medical report (from IOM Sri Lanka Migration Health Assessment)
- Police clearance report
- Project details and proof of satisfactory performance (Investor)
- Updated bank statements (RGFCA/RGRCA)
- Tax clearance from Inland Revenue Department
- Progress report/commendations/awards (Professional)
- Bank statement confirming monthly remittance (Professional)
Repatriation Rights
- Unutilized balance in special account
- Capital gains and income from investments
- Sale proceeds of investments
- All repatriation subject to exchange control and tax regulations
Terms & Conditions
- Notify material changes within 2 months
- Comply with immigration and tax laws
- No political activities or activities against public interest
- 2 months’ written notice required to terminate investment/project
- 14 working days’ notice before permanent departure
- Visa Fee: US$ 200 per person for 1 year
- Validity: 5 years from issuing date
⚠️ Important Note
This program is currently available for EXTENSION ONLY for existing visa holders. New applications are not being accepted. Applications submitted to Visa Branch, 4th floor, Department of Immigration & Emigration.
⚠️ Overstay Penalties
Important: Overstay Penalties Amended June 2023
| Overstay Period | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Up to 7 days after expiry | Pay visa fee only, no penalty |
| More than 7 days up to 14 days | US$ 250 visa fee + US$ 250 penalty |
| More than 14 days | US$ 500 visa fee + US$ 500 penalty |
Visa payments are calculated from the arrival date of the passenger.
📋 General Requirements for All Visas
Basic Eligibility
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival date
- Adequate funds for maintenance and return passage
- Return ticket or visa to next destination (for visit visas)
- No criminal record or pending legal issues
- Health protection plan/insurance (for residence visas)
Visa Exemptions
✅ Exempt Categories
- Sri Lankan dual citizens
- Children up to 21 years with birth registered under Citizenship Act
- Children under 21 born in Sri Lanka for Sri Lankan parents with foreign nationality
Gratis (Free) Visa
Diplomatic or Official passport holders may receive free visas as per recommendation from line ministries.
🔗 Official Resources & Contacts
Key Government Websites
Department of Immigration & Emigration Contact
📍 Address
Department of Immigration and Emigration
“Suhurupaya”, Sri Subhuthipura Road,
Battaramulla, Sri Lanka
📞 Phone
- +94 112 101 500
- +94 011 288 5 358
Visa Division: contvisa@immigration.gov.lk
General: controller@Immigration.gov.lk
Office Hours
⏰ Working Days & Times
- Application Acceptance: 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Head Office)
- Token Issuance: Till 2:00 p.m. only
- Visa Collection: After 2.5 hours from submission (same day)
- Other Days Collection: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon
- Payment Counters: Close at 3:30 p.m.
- Closed: Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
Sri Lanka Overseas Missions
For visa applications from abroad, visit the nearest Sri Lankan High Commission, Embassy, or Consulate. A list of missions is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
⚖️ Important Legal Notices
⚠️ LEGAL DISCLAIMER & LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
IMPORTANT – READ CAREFULLY: This guide and all related materials are provided by InvestmentLanka solely for general informational purposes and do not constitute, nor are intended to constitute, legal, immigration, tax, financial, or professional advice of any kind whatsoever. InvestmentLanka is not a visa issuer, immigration authority, government agency, or accredited legal advisor. InvestmentLanka does not issue visas, process visa applications, or have any authority to grant, deny, or modify any Sri Lanka visa status.
Absence of Professional Advice: Any information contained in this guide should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal counsel, immigration advice, or consultation with qualified professionals. You are strongly advised to consult directly with the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka, authorized Sri Lankan diplomatic missions overseas, licensed immigration attorneys, or other qualified professionals before making any decisions based on the information herein.
Verification Required: Immigration laws, regulations, policies, fees, and requirements in Sri Lanka are subject to change at any time without prior notice, especially following annual budget presentations and legislative amendments. All information presented in this guide reflects the status as of 2026 and may become outdated or inaccurate. You must independently verify all visa requirements, procedures, fees, and policies directly with official government sources before taking any action. InvestmentLanka expressly disclaims any responsibility for ensuring the accuracy, completeness, or currency of the information provided.
No Warranties or Representations: InvestmentLanka makes no warranties, representations, or guarantees of any kind, whether express or implied, regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, timeliness, suitability, or availability of the information contained herein. InvestmentLanka provides this guide “AS IS” and “AS AVAILABLE” without warranty of any kind, including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, non-infringement, or course of dealing.
Limitation of Liability: To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, InvestmentLanka, its directors, officers, employees, agents, contractors, licensors, and suppliers shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to lost profits, revenues, data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses, resulting from (a) your access to, use of, or inability to access or use this guide; (b) any errors, mistakes, inaccuracies, or omissions in the content; (c) any unauthorized access to, use of, or alteration of your transmissions or content; (d) any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of your reliance on information contained in this guide; (e) any visa application denials, delays, rejections, entry refusals, overstay penalties, deportation, or other adverse immigration consequences; or (f) any other matter relating to this guide, whether based on warranty, contract, tort (including negligence), product liability, or any other legal theory.
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Updates & Modifications: InvestmentLanka reserves the right to modify, update, or discontinue this guide or any part thereof at any time without prior notice. InvestmentLanka shall not be liable to you or any third party for any modification, suspension, or discontinuance of the guide.
Governing Law & Jurisdiction: This disclaimer shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which InvestmentLanka operates, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Any dispute arising hereunder shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the competent courts in said jurisdiction.
Last Updated: 2026. This document reflects publicly available information from official Sri Lankan government sources as of the date specified. Immigration policies are subject to frequent amendment, particularly following annual budget presentations (typically in November). Substantive changes may occur without prior notice.
Acknowledgment & Agreement: By accessing, reading, or using any portion of this guide, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by this disclaimer in its entirety. If you do not agree with these terms, you must not use or rely on this guide.
📋 Key Legislation Governing Visas
- Immigration and Emigration Act No. 18 of 1948
- Citizenship Act No. 18 of 2003
- Foreign Exchange Act No. 12 of 2017
- Companies Act No. 7 of 2007
- Land (Restrictions on Alienation) Act No. 38 of 2014
- Economic Transformation Act No. 45 of 2024
Before You Apply
- Always verify current visa fees and requirements on official immigration website
- Consult with qualified immigration lawyers or consultants for complex cases
- Check for travel advisories from your home country’s foreign ministry
- Ensure all documents are properly attested and translated if necessary
- Allow sufficient processing time before travel
- Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records
✅ Quick Checklist Before Travel
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Appropriate visa/ETA obtained
- Return air ticket
- Adequate travel funds
- Travel insurance recommended
- Yellow fever vaccination (if traveling from endemic country)
- Contact details for Sri Lanka embassy/consulate