The country of Sri Lanka, beautiful and encapsulating, attracts people from all over the globe to come and reside there. However, even the cool blue waters are not always enough to convince people to leave their businesses behind. Thankfully, with the availability and popularity of the digital nomad visa, Sri Lanka is one of the countries that allow its residents to live in their territory while simultaneously operating their business remotely.
In order to boost tourism and the overall economy, Sri Lanka came up with a new visa program. It’s certainly a strategic approach to increase the number of tourist arrivals.
This means that remote workers can live in Sri Lanka without making any complex or long-term commitments. Let’s see what a Sri Lanka digital nomad visa has to offer.
Does Sri Lanka have a Digital Nomad Visa?
The cabinet of ministers officially approved the proposed digital nomad visa in 2021. However, the Sri Lankan authorities have not launched it just yet. The visa is to be made active soon but there are alternative options in the meantime.
Digital nomads and remote workers can apply for a 30-day Sri Lanka ETA (electronic travel authorization). This great option allows you to live in the country for 1 month with extension opportunities. Once the initial period has passed, you can apply for a 30-90, 90-180, or 180-270 day extension.
These visa extensions are a great way to stay in Sri Lanka and experience all that it has to offer.
Who can Apply for the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa?
As per current information, anyone can apply for a Sri Lanka digital nomad visa/ ETA. As long as you fulfill the eligibility requirements, you are free to apply and obtain it.
On a general note, this visa is best suited for business owners, travelers, tourists, remote workers, or people who can conduct their work digitally.
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Sri Lanka?
Since the Sri Lanka digital nomad visa isn’t active as of yet, the best alternative is the 30-day Sri Lanka ETA. Here’s how you can apply for it.
- Submitting the application
The Sri Lankan government and authorities allow you to submit applications through accessible means. You can submit it online on the official website and It’ll reach an adequate police station based on the location of your stay. Following that, you will receive confirmation and your caseworker will contact you for further details.
You can also submit your application in person at the Sri Lanka embassy or consulate in your home country. Some countries are free to use the online portal for ETAs but others like Afghanistan are required to submit applications in person.
- Fill out the application form
This step includes a lot of intricate details. Hence, the necessary amount of attention should be given. The form will appear amidst the process if you’re applying online. However, if you’re applying in person then you’ll need to print an application form and fill it out before submitting it.
- Gather the documents
Now is the time to gather all the documents required for a Digital Nomad Visa.
Make sure to double-check them before submitting.
- Pay the fee
Once you have applied, you’ll have to pay the visa fees which will vary depending on how you have applied. You can pay via credit card in case of online application. Cash or bank transfers will be eligible for in-person applications.
- Wait for feedback
Now that you have done everything on your part, all you need to do is wait. The relevant Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority will process your application at their earliest convenience and send feedback. Upon receiving approval, you can enter Sri Lanka.
How Much Does it Cost?
The visa application process of a 30-day ETA in Sri Lanka costs 35$ USD for single entry and 40$ for multiple entries. This affordable fee can be paid through different means including but not limited to bank transfer and card payment.
However, please keep in mind that this is the application fee for 30 days. You’ll need to pay an additional amount for extensions and it will vary based on the time you intend to stay for. Here’s a rough breakdown of expected costs.
- 30-90 day extension = 100$
- 90-180 day extension = 150$
- 180-270 day extension = 200$
- Overstaying = 500$
The proposed digital nomad initiative in Sri Lanka is expected to cost 500$ (including visa holders’s spouses and family members).
Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
If you’re someone who is thinking about applying for a Sri Lankan digital nomad visa then these are the applications and documentation you should start gathering.
- Application form
This can be either filled out online or you can print out the form and submit it in person.
- Travel document
This essentially refers to the copy of a valid passport. It is to be noted that the passport should have a validity of 6 months upon the period of your stay.
- Health insurance
Proof of health insurance must be provided. It should last as long as you plan to stay in Sri Lanka and it must be valid in the country (it can be either travel or private health insurance).
- Financial means and economic stability
This means that you have to submit documents that prove that you are self-sufficient and you can financially support yourself while staying in Sri Lanka. The minimum monthly income requirement is 2000$ and it must be channeled through a Sri Lankan banking system.
In order to obtain this visa, you’ll need to open a Sri Lankan bank account. However, the process is easy and direct, even for non-nationals.
You can submit the following
- Bank statement showing that you have a steady monthly income as required by the authorities (2000$ per month).
- Payslips showcasing proof of regular income and stability
- Clear criminal record
You need to provide legal documents such as a clean criminal certification that proves that you have not been convicted of any crimes. This applies to your home country and the country you were staying in before you entered Sri Lanka
- Proof of residence
In order to get your visa approved, you also need to provide proof of your temporary residence (the place where you intend to stay during your time in Sri Lanka).
You can submit the following
- Booking confirmation with a hotel or Airbnb
- Rental agreement
How Long Does it Take to Get a Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa?
Digital nomads and remote workers would be happy to learn that the visa application process for a Sri Lanka ETA doesn’t take a long time. Your application will be processed within 5 business days of submission and you’ll receive an answer as soon as possible. As for the extension, it is usually processed within 24 hours.
This is the standard time. However, it can change depending on the competency of the station or diplomatic mission in charge. It can also extend if your case worker or counselor finds that they need more details or documents.
Make sure to send an accurate application so it can be processed quickly.
Benefits of the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa
Rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes
Sri Lanka is close to the Indian subcontinent, both in terms of geography and history. Hinduism and Buddhism are the two main ethnicities found here and the local culture is derived from their traditions. Sri Lanka is a multicultural country whose diversity is depicted by its art, literature, music, and architecture. As for nature, this tropical island is surrounded by lush forests and palm trees. The white sandy beaches and stunning landscapes add to the intrigue of the country. Sri Lanka is also a haven for wildlife lovers as it houses various species.
Safe country
Sri Lanka is considered an appealing destination due to several reasons but safety is one of the main ones. Tourist crime is extremely rare and the overall crime rate is also low. Some might argue that Sri Lanka is relatively safer than several other digital nomad hotspots. However, petty crimes are not unheard of so make sure to remain cautious at all times. We recommend foreigners stay on their guard, remain vigilant while traveling, and keep an eye on their belongings. Sri Lanka is a safe place for women and minorities but it’s better to take precautions. Most importantly, try to avoid the dangerous bus drivers in the country who are known for their aggressive driving.
Affordable cost of living
One of the things that make Tirana popular among digital nomads is its affordable cost of living. You can enjoy great value for money here and lead a high standard of life. The cost of day-to-day expenses is highly budget-friendly. However, please note that these prices are mere estimations. Your cost of living will be defined by your lifestyle and spending patterns.
Tax exemption
One of the best things about Sri Lanka for non-residents is that they are not subject to local income taxes. You can work remotely and enjoy your income. However, you’ll still be liable to the tax obligations in your home country, if that is what they require.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has a decent taxation policy that requires residents to pay a specific amount of income tax on their worldwide income. As for digital nomads (non-residents), they are only supposed to pay taxes on the money that they make in the country. Hence, if you’re working remotely and getting income from a foreign company or employer, you won’t be liable for Sri Lankan taxes.
You may be subject to Other taxes such as VAT 16%, excise tax 25%, and tariffs 16%.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa, Sri Lanka
The Sri Lanka ETA is designed to last 30 days originally but you can renew/ extend it once that period has passed. The renewal comes in the form of extensions and you have several options to choose from. You can apply for 30-90 days, 90-180 days, or 180-270 days depending on your personal preference. As discussed above, the prices will increase based on the package.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens if your Sri Lanka digital nomad visa application is rejected?
- If your visa application is rejected due to any reason, you’ll receive a notice on your email address. Make sure to note that your visa application fee will not be refunded.
- Why is Sri Lanka a good place for digital nomads?
- This island nation offers everything from a decent internet connection and good food to breathtaking landscapes and good weather. If you want to escape the everyday dullness and delve into a tropical paradise then Sri Lanka is the perfect place for you.
- When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
- The island has good and sunny weather all year long but the best time to visit is between December and mid-April. This is the peak time when one of the two monsoon seasons hits the country and the “rainy season” begins. For those of you who wish to avoid the rain, consider visiting between November and April.
- Which countries can not apply for a 30-day ETA through an online portal?
- There are 21 countries that need to apply at an embassy. Those countries include Afghanistan, Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Myanmar, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Sierra, Leone, Sudan, Syria, and Uganda.
- Does Sri Lanka have a digital nomad visa?
- Sri Lanka doesn’t have a “digital nomad visa” per se. However, it is in the works. The proposal was originally submitted in 2021 but there haven’t been any major developments ever since. Despite that, the country does provide some pretty good options for people who are looking for similar benefits.
Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka is nothing short of a tropical paradise on earth. Surrounded by beautiful beaches on the coast, national parks, dense rainforests, and breathtaking mountains, this country has an abundance of stunning landscapes.
This South Asian island has become a digital nomad hotspot over the years, standing right next to bigger cities and tourist destinations like Bali and Chiang Mai.
We hope this article helped you understand how you can live here via a digital nomad visa and enjoy your time. If you have any further questions or queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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