The process of application for a work visa

Foreigners have to begin the process of application for a work visa with obtaining a regular visa for entry to Sri Lanka. Requirements for such a visa may differ so applicants have to address the nearest embassy or consulate of Sri Lanka for detailed information. Applicants should also note that they wish to obtain a residence visa upon arrival to the country.

After obtaining an entry visa, applicants can travel to Sri Lanka and apply for a residence visa. After completing the application and collecting all the documents required to support it, applicants can submit their visa application to the Department for approval. Once the Immigration and Emigration Department issues a residence visa, the employee can legally start working for the company in Sri Lanka.

What documents must be submitted for a work visa?

To apply for a work visa in Sri Lanka, applicants must submit the following documents:

• A letter from the applicant's employer in Sri Lanka;

• Board of Investment (BOI) certificate for employer in Sri Lanka;

• A copy of the biodata page of the applicant's passport;

• Certificate of enterprise registration;

• Recommendation of the concerned Ministry of Sri Lanka.

Who can get a work visa for Sri Lanka?

Foreigners who will be employed in one of the following organizations must have a work visa:

• Professionals and foreign staff (including their dependents) whose services are required for projects approved by the Government, and those employed in projects under the supervision of the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka;

• Employees of banks and their dependents;

• Volunteers;

• Staff attached to non-governmental organizations;

• Staff employed in UN diplomatic missions and its specialized agencies, intergovernmental organizations and diplomatic mission projects in Sri Lanka;

• Staff employed in private companies.

The following categories of staff also require a work visa:

• Foreign artists engaged in regular performances for hotels, clubs and other organizations;

• Foreign nationals working as coaches of national/provincial teams or well-known sports clubs;

• Foreign athletes recruited during the specified period by Sri Lankan clubs/organizations;

• Foreign specialist chefs.

How much does it cost to get a work visa?

For a work visa, the relevant government visa fee and tax of 20 000 rupees per year must be paid.