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Sri Lanka has introduced a new Digital Nomad Visa and extended its tourist visa, while also extending its tourist visa to allow visitors to stay longer in the country. The move is part of the country’s efforts to boost tourism and attract foreign income without taking away local jobs.
Digital Nomad Visa
Under the new policy, remote professionals can legally live in Sri Lanka while working online for overseas employers or clients. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, work remotely for companies outside Sri Lanka, and earn income exclusively from abroad.
The visa fee is set at $500 for the first year. While holders cannot take local jobs, they are allowed to rent property, open bank accounts, enroll children in private schools, and access local services and co-working spaces. The application process includes ministry approval, medical clearance after arrival, and final clearance from immigration authorities.
Tourist Visa Extension
Sri Lanka has also extended its tourist visa from 90 to 180 days. Travelers can apply online through the Electronic Tourist Visa Activation System via a mobile app. Fees varies like $70 for SAARC nationals, $85 for other travelers, and $50 for visitors from Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles under bilateral agreements.
Tourists remain prohibited from local employment, but limited remote work for overseas employers is permitted. The government says these changes aim to attract visitors who spend locally, support the economy, and contribute without taking jobs from citizens.
Growing Trend of Digital Nomad Visas
Sri Lanka joins over 50 countries introducing digital nomad visas to tap into the global shift toward remote work. The country requires a minimum monthly income of $2,000, placing it in the mid-range compared to regional peers: Indonesia ($5,000) and Thailand (approx. $80,000/year), while Malaysia sits at $24,000 annually.
The country also offers six investment-based residency programs ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. Options include bank deposits, real estate, government bonds, and business investment. Only the Resident Guest Scheme Investor category offers a path to citizenship, requiring a $250,000 deposit and further investments in approved projects.
