Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa

CapitalSri Jayawardenepura Kotte

TimezoneUTC+5:30 (SLST)

CurrencySri Lankan rupee (Rs) (LKR)

LanguagesSinhala, Tamil

Websitehttps://www.gov.lk/

Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa

The information about this visa was last updated at 11/20/2024

Let’s explore the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa, a promising initiative for those seeking to work and reside in this beautiful island nation. The Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa was introduced in 2021 to attract global talent and boost tourism. While the official launch was confirmed recently, this visa allows digital nomads to reside in Sri Lanka for one year, with an option for renewal.

Requirements

You must be a digital nomad working remotely as an employee, freelancer, or business owner for companies or clients located outside Sri Lanka.
Your work should be primarily conducted online.

Required documents

To apply for the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need the following documents:

Valid Passport:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended entry date in Sri Lanka.
Email Address:
- Provide an active email address where your Sri Lanka online visa will be sent.
Valid Debit or Credit Card:
- You’ll need a valid debit or credit card to pay the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) fee ($500).

Application process

To apply for the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa, follow these steps:

Compile Required Documents:
- Gather necessary paperwork, and if needed, ensure they are translated to English.
- Key documents include your passport (with at least 6 months validity), proof of employment (employer letter or freelance work evidence), financial proof, health insurance, travel itinerary, and accommodation details.
Online Application:
- Complete the official online visa application form.
- Upload scanned copies of the required materials.
Pay the Fee:
- The visa fee for the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa is $500.
In-Person Interview:
- Schedule an in-person interview at the nearest Sri Lanka embassy or consulate.
- Bring original documentation for verification.

Taxes

As a digital nomad in Sri Lanka, you are not considered a tax resident. According to Sri Lanka’s tax system, non-residents are liable to taxes if their income is derived from Sri Lanka. However, since your work as a digital nomad primarily occurs online and outside Sri Lanka, you will not be charged any income tax.

Frequently asked questions about the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa

What is Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa and when was it introduced?

Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa was introduced in 2021 to attract global talent and boost tourism. The visa allows digital nomads to stay in the country for one year with the possibility of renewal.

What are the main requirements and eligibility criteria for the visa?

Applicants must be digital nomads working remotely as employees, freelancers, or business owners for companies or clients located outside Sri Lanka. Their work should be primarily conducted online. They need a valid passport with at least six months validity, an active email address, and a valid debit or credit card for the $500 ETA fee.

What is the application process like?

The process involves compiling required documents (including proof of employment, financial proof, health insurance, and accommodation details), completing an online application form, paying the $500 visa fee, and attending an in-person interview at a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate with original documentation.

How does taxation work for digital nomads in Sri Lanka?

Digital nomads are not considered tax residents in Sri Lanka. While non-residents are typically liable for taxes on income derived from Sri Lanka, digital nomads whose income comes from outside the country are not subject to Sri Lankan income tax. Claude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.