Learn the full requirements for Sri Lanka’s new Digital Nomad Visa, including income rules, eligibility criteria, stay limits, and what remote workers need to prepare before applying
Sri Lanka has officially entered the global competition for remote workers with its newly launched Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) — a one‑year, renewable residence visa designed for remote employees, freelancers, and online business owners earning income from outside the country. The program aims to attract long‑stay visitors who contribute to the local economy while enjoying Sri Lanka’s beaches, culture, and low cost of living.
This guide breaks down everything international entrepreneurs and digital nomads need to know: eligibility, income requirements, documents, application steps, visa duration, tax rules, and more.
What Is Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa?
Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa allows foreign nationals to live in the country for up to 12 months, with the option to renew annually as long as they continue meeting the visa conditions.
The visa is designed for:
- Remote employees
- Freelancers
- Entrepreneurs running businesses serving clients outside Sri Lanka
- Families accompanying a main applicant
The program positions Sri Lanka as a long‑stay digital destination, encouraging global talent to contribute to tourism and knowledge exchange.
Eligibility Requirements for Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify, applicants must meet several core criteria:
Minimum Income Requirement
Applicants must show a minimum monthly income of USD 2,000, remitted through the Sri Lankan banking system.
If bringing more than two dependents, income must increase by USD 500 per additional dependent.
Type of Work Allowed
You must be:
- A remote employee
- A freelancer
- A business owner serving non‑Sri Lankan clients
Local employment is not permitted under this visa.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Nationality
There are no nationality restrictions listed in official documentation.
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Completed visa application form
- Request letter from the applicant
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Two passport‑sized photos
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Birth certificates for dependents
- Security clearance form
- Medical clearance report
- Police clearance certificate (issued within the last 3 months)
- International health insurance covering the applicant and dependents
How to Apply for Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa
Step‑by‑Step Process
- Prepare all required documents listed above.
- Submit your application to the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Residence Visa Division).
- Pay the visa fee (approximately USD 500 per person).
- Wait for eligibility and compliance review.
- Receive approval and complete visa issuance procedures.
Processing Time
Official processing times are not yet published, but early applicants report standard residence‑visa timelines.
Visa Duration, Extensions, and Stay Limits
- Initial validity: 12 months
- Renewable: Yes, annually
- Conditions for renewal: Must continue meeting income, insurance, and compliance requirements
Overstaying or failing to meet income or legal obligations can result in visa cancellation.
Tax Rules for Digital Nomads in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s DNV is designed for individuals earning income from abroad, and the visa does not permit local employment.
Key considerations include:
- Income earned outside Sri Lanka remains the basis for eligibility.
- Applicants must remit income through Sri Lankan banks, but this does not automatically imply tax residency.
- Local tax obligations may arise if you engage in business activities inside Sri Lanka, which the visa prohibits.
(Official tax guidance is still evolving; applicants should consult a tax professional.)
Cost of Living in Sri Lanka for Digital Nomads
Sri Lanka is known for its affordable lifestyle, making it attractive for remote workers. Highlights include:
- Housing: Long‑term rentals in beach towns like Weligama or Hiriketiya are significantly cheaper than Western or Southeast Asian hubs.
- Internet: High‑speed internet is widely available and reliable.
- Coworking: Growing coworking scenes in Colombo, Galle, and surf towns.
- Daily expenses: Food, transport, and services remain budget‑friendly.
Pros and Cons of Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa
Pros
- Low cost of living
- One‑year renewable stay
- Family‑friendly
- Access to banking, rentals, utilities, and schools
- Beautiful landscapes and strong remote‑work infrastructure
Cons
- No local employment allowed
- Must remit income through Sri Lankan banks
- Requires police and medical clearances
- Visa fee applies per person, including dependents
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Spouses and dependents can accompany the main applicant. Income requirements increase for more than two dependents.
Can I work for Sri Lankan clients?
No. All income must come from outside Sri Lanka.
Is the visa renewable?
Yes, annually, as long as you continue meeting the requirements.
Can I switch to another visa later?
Yes, but you must follow the standard procedures for the new visa category.
If you are interested in pursuing a digital nomad visa in Sri Lanka, or anywhere for that matter, click here to join GWP Insiders to gain access to insights, advice, consulting, and more!
