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Most nationalities can obtain an ETA online prior to arrival; fee is approximately $35 USD. Extendable at the Department of Immigration up to 90 days total; not for employment.
Requires a job offer from a Board of Investment (BOI) or other approved company in Sri Lanka. Employer must apply for work authorization before the employee applies for the visa.
For retirees and those with passive income; requires proof of remitting at least $2,000/month into Sri Lanka (or $1,500 for over-60s). No work allowed; renewable biannually.
For investors in Board of Investment-approved projects; minimum investment thresholds apply by sector (typically $250,000+). Grants residency and work rights tied to the investment.
Sri Lanka offers an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for most nationalities, granting 30-day tourist stays extendable to 90 days. Long-term residence options include the Resident Guest Scheme for retirees with foreign income and employment visas for sponsored workers. Sri Lanka has been actively improving its visa framework to attract digital nomads and remote workers.
Work visas in Sri Lanka require a job offer from a registered Sri Lankan employer and authorization from the Department of Immigration and Emigration. A Board of Investment (BOI) endorsement may be required for certain sectors. Processing typically takes 3–6 weeks and permits are issued for one year with renewal options.
Spouses and dependent children of visa holders may apply for dependent residence authorization. Dependents wishing to work must obtain their own separate employment visa and endorsement.
Sri Lanka applies income tax progressively from 6% to 36% for individuals. Corporate tax is 30% (28% for certain qualifying companies). VAT is 18%. Sri Lanka has a modest double-tax treaty network including agreements with the UK, India, Singapore, and Australia.
Healthcare quality varies significantly in Sri Lanka. Colombo has reputable private hospitals like Lanka Hospitals, Asiri Central, and Nawaloka offering international-standard care. Outside Colombo, facilities are limited. International health insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended for comprehensive care.
Expats with valid permits can open accounts at Bank of Ceylon, Commercial Bank of Ceylon, or HSBC Sri Lanka. Requirements include passport, visa, and proof of local address. Multi-currency accounts (USD, EUR, GBP) are available. The Sri Lankan rupee has experienced volatility; USD savings accounts are preferred.
Sri Lanka promotes foreign investment through the Board of Investment (BOI), which offers incentives including income tax exemptions for qualifying industries and simplified permit processing. The Resident Guest Scheme allows foreigners with a guaranteed foreign income of at least USD 2,000/month to reside in Sri Lanka long-term. Sri Lanka does not currently have a formal citizenship by investment program.
| Program | Min. Investment | Residency | Citizenship |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Guest Scheme | — | No | No |