Immigration Law at Sri Lanka
Here’s a thorough, updated overview of immigration law in Sri Lanka, encompassing entry rules, work and residence visas, digital nomad options, residency schemes, and citizenship regulations:
1. Entry & Visitor Visas
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Most visitors must obtain an ETA before arrival. This visa is valid initially for 30 days and can be extended—often cumulatively—for up to 270 days. Fees vary by nationality.
Extended Tourist Visa: Sri Lanka now offers a 180-day tourist visa, replacing the standard 90-day visa. This is applied for digitally via the Sri Lanka Tourist Mobile App. Employment through this route is restricted to overseas representation or promotion only.
2. Work Visas & Professional Immigration
Standard Work Visas: Needed for employment within Sri Lanka, usually sponsored by a local employer. While specific procedural details are scarce, some professions—like foreign law students/interns—may face restrictions on work permit approvals.
Digital Nomad Visa (DNV):
Announced in 2023, now officially available.
Criteria:
Minimum monthly income of US$2,000, routed through a Sri Lankan bank.
Valid for one year, with US$500 application fee; extends to include spouse and dependents.
No local employment allowed
Tax Treatment for Digital Nomads:
Non-residents earning income from abroad are not subject to local income tax, though domestic purchases may fall under VAT, excise, or customs duties.
3. Residencies & Specialized Schemes
Resident Guest Scheme (RGS):
A long-term visa option (up to 5 years) tailored for:
Investors: Minimum investment threshold of US$250,000 required.
Professionals: Must maintain a deposit of US$2,000 monthly (plus US$1,000 for a dependent) in a local bank, and submit documents like professional credentials, proposals, and clearances. Visa fee is modest (~US$50).
Tourist Extensions:
The standard ETA or visa can be extended multiple times up to 180 or even 270 days, subject to fees and approval. Overstays incur fines.
4. Permanent Residency & Denizenship by Descent
Permanent Residency Scheme (2024):
Available to persons of Sri Lankan descent, spouses of citizens (married for 6+ months), and their children.
Grants full rights, including work authorization, property ownership, education, and health benefits.
Application cost estimated between USD 400–1,000; implementation dates and precise procedures are pending.
Citizenship by Registration/Naturalization:
By Descent: Automatic if born to a Sri Lankan parent or registered via diplomatic mission.
By Ancestry, Marriage, or Residency:
Foreigners married to Sri Lankans or with heritage may register for citizenship.
Foreigners with a 5+ year Resident Guest Scheme status may also apply.
Dual Citizenship:
Allowed upon government approval.
However, dual citizens are barred from Parliamentary election and Presidential office.
Stateless Persons & Indian Tamils:
Sri Lanka passed laws to grant citizenship to stateless groups including Indian Tamils who resided since 1964.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Visitor Access | ETA (30 days, extendable up to 270); extended tourist visa (180 days) via app |
| Work Authorization | Standard employer-sponsored work permits; restricted for some professions |
| Digital Nomad Visa | 1-year visa for remote workers; income ≥ $2,000/month; includes dependents |
| Resident Guest Scheme | Long-term (5-year) visa for investors or professionals with bank deposits |
| Permanent Residency | For Sri Lankan descent or spouses; grants full local rights |
| Citizenship | By descent, marriage, ancestry, or long-term RGS; dual allowed with limits |
Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka has built a modern, flexible immigration landscape—from long-term remote work visas to heritage-based residency and citizenship options. Instrumental changes include the Digital Nomad Visa and the unique Resident Guest Scheme. New permanent residency pathways reflect growing openness to diaspora and long-term contributors. However, standard work visas remain niche and variable in approval.
Would you like help exploring the Digital Nomad Visa application, Resident Guest Scheme eligibility, or steps for citizenship by descent or marriage?
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