Immigration and Emigration
Global movement of individuals into a destination state of which they are not citizens or where they do not hold citizenship in order to settle down or reside there, particularly as permanent residents or naturalized citizens, or to take-up occupation as a migrant employee or temporarily as an overseas employee.
We understand and feel the difficulties, complexities of “Immigration law” and “Visa” facing by our clients. We offer a full service from your initial inquiry through to assist, guidance and direction in your country.
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Residence Visa
A Residence Visa is a permit for a non-Sri Lankan to obtain residence facilities for special purposes. It is issued to persons of non-Sri Lankan nationality to whom it has been decided to extend residence facilities for the purpose that mentioned in the particular residence visa category, in circumstances where the prescribed authority is satisfied that their stay in Sri Lanka and the pursuit of their vocations are not prejudicial to the best interests of the population.
Employment Category
- Foreign nationals who are employed by a Sri Lankan company or organization.
- Foreign nationals who are employed by a foreign company or organization and are posted to Sri Lanka for work.
Investor Visa Category
Sri Lanka offers an Investor Visa program to encourage foreign nationals to invest in the country. The Investor Visa allows individuals to enter and reside in Sri Lanka while managing their investments. The primary aim of the visa is to promote foreign investment in various sectors, including information technology, and tourism, among others.
1. Eligible Persons
- Foreign Nationals
- Spouse and dependants of main applicant
- Comply with tax laws in Sri Lanka.
1. Eligible Persons
2. Making investments in Sri Lanka
I. Minimum Investment Amount
- USD 100,000 – for a 5 year visa.
- USD 200,000 – for a 10 year visa
Religious Category
Educational Category
- University Students
- Students in Educational Institutions approved by the Government
- Volunteers
- Internship holders
Digital Nomad Visa Category
Sri Lanka offers a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) designed to attract foreign professionals who wish to live and work remotely from Sri Lanka while serving clients or companies based outside the country. This initiative aims to position Sri Lanka as a preferred long-stay digital destination, contributingto the national economy through extended stays, tourism expenditure, and global knowledge exchange.
1. Eligible persons
- Foreign Nationals (must be 18 years of age or older)
- Spouse and Dependents of the main applicant
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Main Applicant must be 18 years or older
- Main Applicant must be engaged in remote employment, Freelancing or own a business (not registered in Sri Lanka) that serves clients outside Sri Lanka.
- Minimum monthly income remittance of USD 2,000 for the main applicant and if the dependent count increases more than 2, additional USD 500 should be remitted monthly for each
The Resident Guest Scheme has introduced by the Sri Lanka Government, as a part of a program of encouragements for potential foreign investors and professionals who would subsidize to the economic and socio-cultural development of Sri Lanka.
The Resident Guest Scheme is open to all foreign nationals; any foreign investor / professional who could contribute to the economic and socio – cultural enrichment of the country.
Resident Guests required to;
- Notify the Implementing Agency in writing of any material changes in particulars furnished in the application within two (2) months of such change.
- Comply with Immigration and Emigration formalities of the Sri Lanka government.
- Comply with tax laws in Sri Lanka.
- Comply with all the other laws and regulations of Sri Lanka Government.
- Refrain from any political or other activity which is not in the public interest or which might be prejudicial to the security of the country.
- Produce a Police clearance certificate from his country.
Dream home visa
This scheme is open to foreign nationals. Applicant is allowed to bring his/her spouse and under 18 years unmarried dependent children.
Residence visa
To acquire a Residence Visa, it is necessary to arrive in Sri Lanka on an Entry Visa issued by a Sri Lanka Mission abroad with the concurrence of the Controller of Immigration and Emigration.
This scheme is open to foreign nationals. Applicant is allowed to bring his/her spouse and under 18 years unmarried dependent children
Why I must renew my visa under SRI LANKA MY DREAM HOME PROGRAMME.
- Residence visa valid for 02 years which is renewable, will be granted
- Feeling welcome and safe while living in Sri Lanka among who are kind to foreigners.
- Enjoying range of climates, seasons and temperatures etc.
- Endless outdoor health-giving opportunities for golf, tennis, physical training in gyms, marathon running, swimming, surfing, snorkelling, sea or fresh water fishing, bird-watching and observing nature in world class game reserves.
- Luxurious furnished houses or flats are available on the tropical coastal belt, in the scenic central highlands and in the main cities
What are the eligibility requirements for renewal Dream Home visa scheme ?
This scheme is open to foreign nationals. Applicant is allowed to bring his/her spouse and under 18 years unmarried dependent children
1. Any foreign national who has a Dream Home visa
2.
- Should maintain US$15000 or the equivalent in an approved foreign currency in a fixed deposit account in an approved any bank in Sri Lanka. And
- A monthly remittance of US$ 1500 or the equivalent in an approved foreign currency for the principal applicant and US$ 750 or the equivalent in an approved foreign currency for each spouse and dependent child* for their upkeep (if accompanied by spouse/children) in a savings or current account in an approved any bank in Sri Lanka.
Personnel attached to Non-Governmental Organizations/International Non-Governmental Organizations
Registered Indians covered by the 1954 Indo –Lanka Agreement. Ex - Sri Lankan and dependents
Family Members of a Sri Lankan (Spouse & Dependants)
Diplomatic and Official visa
Medical Visa
Court Visa
Port City Commission
Relation of Sri Lankan citizen
Emigration
Birth registration
Please note that Consular birth Certificate does not give rights to Sri Lankan citizenship. Registration of your child’s birth at the nearest Sri Lankan Mission or attain a birth confirmation letter is useful under all events.
Dual citizenship
Considering dual citizenship, there are countries whose citizenship regulations permit its own citizens the acquirement of another citizenship. On the other hand, there are countries which do not allow the acquisition of another citizenship. Also some countries where the acquisition of another citizenship will lead to the loss of the present citizenship but allows regaining lost citizenship through a legal process.
Under Sri Lanka law, we can regain your lost citizenship through a legal process and keep the foreign citizenship as well.
Golden Visa
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows foreign nationals to obtain a residence permit (and sometimes a path to citizenship) by making a qualifying investment in a country.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
What Is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa typically grants:
- Long-term residency rights
- Visa-free travel within certain regions (e.g., Schengen Area in Europe)
- The right to live, work, and study
- A possible path to permanent residency or citizenship
Migrating to Australia
Main Visa Pathways
1. Skilled Migration (Points-Based)
- Subclass 189 (Independent)
- Subclass 190 (State Nominated)
- Subclass 491 (Regional)
- Based on age, education, English level, and occupation.
2. Employer-Sponsored Visa
- Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
3. Student Visa
- Study → Post-study work visa → Skilled PR
4. Business / Investor Visas
5. Family Sponsorship
Key Requirements
- Occupation must be on Skilled Occupation List
- Skills assessment
- IELTS/PTE English test
- Health & character checks
- Points test (minimum usually 65+)n
Migrating to New Zealand
Main Visa Pathways
- Skilled Migrant Category
- -Points-based (now focused on accredited employer jobs)
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Student Visa
- Investor & Entrepreneur Visas
- Family Visa
Key Requirements
- Job offer ofen required
- Recognized qualifications
- English proficiency
- Health & police clearance
[Please refer to our Blog for more information]
Immigration and Emmigration– FAQs
General Immigration and Citizenship FAQs
What laws govern immigration and citizenship in Sri Lanka?
Immigration is governed by the Immigrants and Emigrants Act, while citizenship matters are governed by the Citizenship Act and related regulations.
Which authority handles immigration and citizenship matters?
The Department of Immigration and Emigration (DIE) is responsible for visas, residence, citizenship, and border control.
Who is considered a foreign national in Sri Lanka?
Any person who is not a citizen of Sri Lanka is considered a foreign national.
Is a visa required to enter Sri Lanka?
Yes, most foreign nationals must obtain a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entry.
Can immigration and citizenship rules change?
Yes, immigration and citizenship policies are subject to amendments and administrative regulations issued by the government.
Immigration and Long-Term Stay
What is the difference between a visa and citizenship?
A visa allows temporary or long-term stay, while citizenship grants full legal status as a Sri Lankan national.
What is a residence visa?
A residence visa permits a foreign national to reside in Sri Lanka for employment, investment, study, or family reasons.
How long can a foreigner stay in Sri Lanka?
The duration depends on the visa category, ranging from short-term visits to renewable long-term residence visas.
Can a foreigner work in Sri Lanka without a work visa?
No, employment without a valid work or residence visa is illegal.
Can overstaying affect future citizenship applications?
Yes, immigration violations may negatively impact eligibility for residence or citizenship.
Sri Lankan Citizenship – Overview
How can Sri Lankan citizenship be obtained?
Citizenship may be obtained by descent, registration, or naturalisation, subject to statutory requirements.
What is citizenship by descent?
Citizenship by descent applies to individuals born to at least one Sri Lankan parent.
What is citizenship by registration?
Citizenship by registration applies mainly to foreign spouses of Sri Lankan citizens and certain eligible categories.
What is citizenship by naturalisation?
Naturalisation applies to foreigners who have lawfully resided in Sri Lanka for a prescribed period and meet eligibility criteria.
Is Sri Lankan citizenship automatic for foreigners?
No, citizenship is granted only upon approval by the competent authorities.
Citizenship for Foreign Spouses
Can a foreigner married to a Sri Lankan citizen obtain citizenship?
Yes, a foreign spouse may apply for citizenship by registration.
Is there a minimum marriage period to apply?
Yes, applicants must generally satisfy a minimum period of lawful marriage and residence.
Is permanent residence required before citizenship?
Lawful residence and compliance with immigration laws are essential prerequisites.
Does divorce affect citizenship eligibility?
Yes, dissolution of marriage may affect pending or future citizenship applications.
Can children of mixed marriages obtain citizenship?
Yes, children may qualify for Sri Lankan citizenship by descent or registration.
Dual Citizenship in Sri Lanka
Does Sri Lanka allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Sri Lanka permits dual citizenship, subject to government approval.
Who is eligible for dual citizenship?
Former Sri Lankan citizens, their children, and certain eligible foreign nationals may apply.
Is dual citizenship automatic?
No, applicants must formally apply and receive approval.
Can a foreign citizen apply directly for dual citizenship?
Generally, applicants must have a connection to Sri Lanka, such as prior citizenship or parentage.
Can dual citizenship be revoked?
Yes, dual citizenship may be cancelled for fraud, misrepresentation, or national security reasons.
Citizenship for Foreign Nationals (Non-Spouses)
Can long-term residents apply for citizenship?
Yes, long-term lawful residents may apply under naturalisation, subject to approval.
Is investment a pathway to citizenship?
Investment alone does not guarantee citizenship but may support residence eligibility.
Is knowledge of local languages required?
Language proficiency may be considered but is not the sole determining factor.
Are background checks conducted?
Yes, security and character checks are mandatory.
How long does citizenship approval take?
Processing times vary and may take several months or longer.
Rights and Obligations of Citizens
What rights does Sri Lankan citizenship grant?
Citizens enjoy full civil and political rights, including voting and unrestricted residence.
Can non-citizens own property in Sri Lanka?
Foreign ownership is restricted and subject to specific laws and exemptions.
Are citizens subject to Sri Lankan law abroad?
Certain obligations may apply under Sri Lankan law even when abroad.
Can citizenship be renounced?
Yes, Sri Lankan citizens may formally renounce citizenship.
Is renunciation mandatory when acquiring foreign citizenship?
No, dual citizenship may be retained with approval.
What is an immigration offence?
Overstaying, illegal employment, false documents, and unlawful entry are offences.
Immigration Compliance and Offences
Can immigration offences affect citizenship?
Yes, violations can result in refusal or cancellation of citizenship applications.
Can deported persons apply for citizenship later?
Deportation may permanently affect eligibility unless legally resolved.
Are immigration decisions subject to appeal?
Certain decisions may be challenged through administrative review or courts.
Can visas or citizenship be cancelled?
Yes, approvals may be revoked for non-compliance or fraud.
Practical and Legal Guidance
Is legal representation required for citizenship applications?
Not mandatory, but legal assistance is strongly recommended due to complex procedures.
Are documents required to be authenticated?
Yes, foreign documents often require authentication or apostille.
Can applications be submitted online?
Some immigration services are available online, but citizenship applications usually require physical submission.
Can rejected applications be resubmitted?
Yes, subject to compliance with legal requirements.
Are citizenship decisions discretionary?
Yes, final approval rests with the government authorities.
Can lawyers assist with dual citizenship applications?
Yes, law firms assist with eligibility assessment, documentation, and compliance.
Law Firm and Advisory FAQs
Can a law firm liaise with immigration authorities?
Yes, attorneys may represent clients before relevant departments.
Is confidentiality protected in immigration matters?
Yes, lawyer–client confidentiality applies.
Why is legal advice important for foreigners seeking citizenship?
Errors can lead to delays, refusal, or legal consequences.
How can a law firm help with Sri Lankan citizenship for foreigners?
A law firm ensures compliance with statutes, proper documentation, and effective representation throughout the process.
