Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Sri Lanka. If you are not sure whether your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

Business visitors traveling to Sri Lanka may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Attend business meetings and negotiations
• Attend conferences and seminars
• Attend short training courses
• Participate in symposiums

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Sri Lanka?

All business visitors must obtain a Business Visa prior to travel either from a Sri Lankan consulate or embassy or directly from the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo, Sri Lanka. While Sri Lanka does offer Visa Waivers and Visas on Arrival for tourist activities, all business travelers require a Business Visa for business activities. There is also an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) option, which allows for a non-extendible stay of 30 days that travelers may apply for online prior to travel.

Working in Sri Lanka

What sorts of activities require a work visa?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Sri Lankan law. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered work in Sri Lanka, even if conducted for a short duration.

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning and implementation
• Marketing
• Auditing

In some cases, you may be eligible to perform some hands-on or technical activities with a Business Visa at the discretion of the Sri Lankan Controller General of Immigration & Emigration for less than 30 days. However, a legal assessment is recommended prior to travel.

If I am traveling to Sri Lanka for work, what type of work visa do I need?

Whether you require a work visa depends on your qualifications, on whether your employer has an entity in Sri Lanka, and on the nature of your work. The most common type of Sri Lankan work authorization is the Residence Visa (high-skilled work permit).

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work visa requirements?

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work permit requirement in Sri Lanka.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization eligibility entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2018 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.

Updated Nov. 13, 2018.