Tropical lifestyle guidance for guests in Sri Lanka
Remote Living in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa

Live in tropical Sri Lanka while working remotely for your overseas employer, clients, or business. The Digital Nomad Visa offers eligible international applicants a simple long-stay option with annual renewal possibilities.

1 Year Stay Renewable Annually Foreign Income Only Family Eligible

Sri Lanka offers a unique combination of tropical beaches, hill country, city convenience, and a lower-cost lifestyle that appeals to remote workers, freelancers, and global business owners.

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Sri Lanka tropical lifestyle for digital nomads

Overview

Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa is intended for foreign nationals who wish to stay in Sri Lanka while continuing remote work or business activities based outside the country. This visa is suitable for remote employees, freelancers, and overseas business owners who earn from foreign sources.

The visa is granted for 1 year and may be renewed annually if the applicant continues to satisfy the required conditions.

Who Can Apply?

  • Foreign nationals aged 18 or above
  • Remote employees working for overseas companies
  • Freelancers with foreign clients
  • Business owners with businesses based outside Sri Lanka
  • Spouse and dependent children of the main applicant

Eligibility Criteria

  • The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
  • Income must come exclusively from foreign sources.
  • The main applicant must show a minimum monthly income of USD 2,000.
  • For more than two dependents, an additional USD 500 per month per extra dependent is required.
  • The applicant must not take up local employment in Sri Lanka.
  • A clean police record and compliance with Sri Lankan laws are expected.

Required Documents

  • Completed visa application form
  • Request letter from the applicant
  • Passport copy valid for at least 6 months
  • Two recent passport-sized photographs
  • Medical clearance report
  • Police clearance certificate issued within 3 months
  • International health insurance
  • Proof of foreign income/remittance
  • Security clearance form
  • Marriage certificate for spouse
  • Birth certificates for dependents
  • Recommendation from the Ministry of Digital Economy

Application Process

Step 1 – Prepare Documents

Gather all required documents, including proof of foreign income, health insurance, police clearance, and the recommendation from the Ministry of Digital Economy.

Step 2 – Submit Application

Submit the full document set to the Department of Immigration and Emigration – Residence Visa Division.

Step 3 – Evaluation and Issuance

After evaluation and approval, the visa endorsement is issued on the passport. Renewal is possible each year if the applicant remains eligible.

Fees

Applicant Type Fee
Main Applicant USD 500 / year
Spouse USD 500 / year
Each Dependent USD 500 / year

Additional personal costs may include medical reports, insurance, police certificates, translations, and similar supporting expenses.

Benefits

  • Legally stay in Sri Lanka for up to 1 year
  • Annual renewal option
  • Open personal bank accounts
  • Rent apartments, villas, or houses
  • Access internet, utilities, and co-working spaces
  • Enroll dependent children in suitable schools
  • Enjoy Sri Lanka’s beaches, hill country, and lifestyle while working remotely

Renewal and Important Conditions

  • The visa may be renewed every year if eligibility continues.
  • Renewal may require proof of tax registration with the Inland Revenue Department.
  • Visa holders must notify relevant authorities of major changes such as employment, income, or dependents.
  • Violation of visa conditions can result in cancellation of the visa.
  • Local employment in Sri Lanka is not permitted under this category.

Rules and procedures may change from time to time, so applicants should always verify the latest official requirements before submission.

Quick Summary

  • Visa Type:
    Digital Nomad Residence Visa
  • Stay Period:
    1 Year
  • Renewal:
    Available annually
  • Minimum Income:
    USD 2,000 per month
  • Dependents:
    Spouse and children can apply under main applicant
  • Local Employment:
    Not allowed

Where to Apply

Department of Immigration and Emigration
Residence Visa Division
“Suhurupaya”, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka

Email: contvisa@immigration.gov.lk

Phone: 0094 11 2101540

Need Guidance?

We can help you understand the process, required documents, and practical preparation steps before you apply.

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