Sri Lanka launches Digital Nomad Visa to attract remote workers

Sri Lanka yesterday 26 officially launched its new Digital Nomad Visa programme at the “Silk Route” passenger terminal of Bandaranaike International Airport, in a renewed effort to position the country as an attractive destination for global remote professionals.

Under the new scheme, foreign nationals aged 18 and above are permitted to reside in Sri Lanka for up to one year while continuing remote employment with overseas employers. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly foreign currency income of US dollars 2,000 and are prohibited from engaging in local employment or business activities.

Visa holders are allowed to enroll their children in international or private schools in Sri Lanka. As part of the application process, applicants are required to submit police clearance certificates and medical reports issued by their home country authorities. During their stay, compliance including bank account monitoring and tax regulations will be overseen by the relevant authorities.

The initiative was inaugurated by Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, in the presence of senior officials including Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya and Nayana Senaratne.

The first Digital Nomad Visas were granted to Ukrainian nationals Daria Gordiienko and her husband Yaroslav Kovelchuk. Further details on the programme are available on the Department of Immigration and Emigration website.

Key features of the visa include:

Validity: One year, with the option for annual renewal.

Privileges: Legal residence, ability to open local bank accounts, rent property, and enroll children in local schools.

Costs: An annual fee of USD 500 for the primary applicant and each dependent.