Sri Lanka digital nomad visa (2026)

Who can apply

• Aged 18 or over
• Remote employee, freelancer or owner of a business not registered in Sri Lanka, serving clients abroad
• Monthly remittance of at least US$2,000 (more with over two dependants)
• International health insurance covering Sri Lanka

Income requirement

You need to show at least US$2,000 per month remitted. The main applicant must remit at least US$2,000 a month to Sri Lanka; if there are more than two dependants, an extra US$500 a month is required for each additional one.

Documents you need

• Visa application form and request letter
• Passport copy (valid at least 6 months) and two photos
• Security clearance form and medical clearance report
• Police clearance from home or residence country, under 3 months old
• Recommendation from the Ministry of Digital Economy
• Proof of the monthly remittance
• Marriage or birth certificates for family members

How to apply, step by step

1. Get a recommendation from the Ministry of Digital Economy
2. Submit the documents to the Residence Visa Division of the Department of Immigration and Emigration
3. Wait for the department's review
4. Once approved, the visa is endorsed in your passport

Cost and processing time

The fee is uS$500 per year each for main applicant, spouse and each dependant. Processing takes not stated officially. Budget extra for translations, certified copies and health insurance.

Tax

The official guidance only says holders must meet Sri Lankan tax obligations and register with the Inland Revenue Department before renewal; tax residency usually starts after 183 days, so check with the IRD.

Good to know

• Changes to job, income or dependants must be reported within 30 days
• Holders can open local bank accounts, sign leases and enrol children in private or international schools

Visiting first?

2 passports can enter Sri Lanka visa-free for a short stay, a common way to try the country before applying. Check Sri Lanka visa requirements for your passport.

Official source

Department of Immigration and Emigration – Digital Nomad Visa Category

Not yet confirmed on an official source: processing time. Check these with the consulate before you apply.