Sri Lanka digital nomad visa
Sri Lanka launched its digital nomad visa in February 2026, opening the island's beaches, tea-country highlands, and wildlife to remote workers at a low cost of living. The bar is accessible — $2,000/month — and holders can open local bank accounts and enrol kids in school. A fresh, well-rounded base in South Asia for up to a year, renewable.
Digital Nomad Visa at a glance ✓ Verified 2026
- Income requirement: ~$2000/month
- Visa cost: ~$500
- Length of stay: up to 12 months
- Processing time: 2–4 weeks
- Official source: government site
Requirements
- Monthly income of at least $2,000 (plus $500/month per dependent), earned entirely from outside Sri Lanka
- Be 18 or older, working remotely for a foreign company, freelancing for international clients, or running a business not registered in Sri Lanka
- International health insurance covering treatment in Sri Lanka for the whole stay
- Valid passport
- Proof of foreign income remittance
How to apply
- Confirm your foreign income meets the $2,000/month threshold
- Gather documents: passport, proof of foreign income, health insurance
- Submit your application to the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Residence Visa Division) and pay the ~$500 fee
- Wait for review and approval (typically about 2–4 weeks)
- Receive the visa endorsed in your passport; valid up to 12 months, renewable annually
Moving abroad means more than the visa — sort your travel insurance (many visa applications require proof of coverage), set up borderless banking, and land with data working.
First nomad visa? Our digital nomad visa guide explains how qualifying, applying, and taxes work across every country.
Frequently asked questions
At least $2,000/month, plus $500/month per dependent, all earned from foreign sources. You must show the income clearly originates outside Sri Lanka.
Beyond living and working remotely, holders can open Sri Lankan bank accounts, enrol dependent children in private or international schools, and use coworking spaces and government tourism events.
Up to 12 months initially, renewable annually as long as you keep meeting the requirements.
The visa is for foreign-source income and doesn't permit local earnings. Confirm your tax position with an adviser if you stay long-term.
More visas in Asia
Visa rules, income thresholds, and fees change — always confirm the current requirements on the official government source (linked here) before applying. This page is informational, not immigration advice.