Residence in Sri Lanka: permits and requirements
Living legally in Sri Lanka is possible through 5 permit types: other, investment, retiree, family, work. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Resident Visa
Residence type #1 of 5
Residence permit for foreigners who work, invest or study in Sri Lanka
Requirements
- Legal basis of residence (employment, investment, studies, marriage)
- Registration with the Department of Immigration and Emigration
- Payment of residence visa fees
- Valid entry visa
Documentation
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months of validity)
- Residence visa application form (R-Visa)
- Proof of the purpose of residence (employment letter, registration of investment, etc.)
- Bank statements of the last 6 months
- Medical certificate
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin
- Passport-size photos (3)
Frequently asked questions about residence in Sri Lanka
How many types of residence permits are there in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers 5 residence permit types, grouped into the categories other, investment, retiree, family, work. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Sri Lanka last?
Durations vary by permit type: 1 year, renewable up to 5 years; 5 years (US$100,000 investment) or 10 years (US$200,000), depending on the amount (immigration.gov.lk); 1 year, renewable annually; 1 year initially, renewable up to 5 years. The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Sri Lanka be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Sri Lanka (5 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Sri Lanka?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Justificantes económicos; Valid passport. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Sri Lanka?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about residence pathways in Sri Lanka, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.