The government of Sri Lanka has published regulations for a new permanent residence visa scheme.

Key Points:

• As BAL previously reported, government officials have announced several policy updates recently that are designed to simplify the visa system and attract more investors and tourists.
• The government has now approved a policy update that will allow eligible persons of Sri Lankan descent and their dependents to obtain a permanent residence visa to live and work in Sri Lanka.
• The initial visa will have a 10-year validity period with renewal capability.
• The policy change is a result of several appeals the government has received recently from Sri Lankans living overseas who have been unable to obtain dual citizenship due to existing laws in their respective countries.
• The implementation plan for the new visa scheme is currently being created by the Department of Immigration and Emigration.

Additional Information: Under the regulations, a person of Sri Lankan descent or whose citizenship of Sri Lanka has ceased under the Citizenship Act may apply for the new permanent residence visa. In addition, certain non-Sri Lankan spouses and dependents are eligible. The primary applicant will be required to pay US$1,000 for the visa, while a non-Sri Lankan spouse and child will be charged US$400 each.

BAL Analysis: The new visa will provide permanent residency access to persons of Sri Lankan descent and their dependents who are currently unable to apply for dual citizenship. BAL will continue following the implementation of the new visa scheme and will provide updates as information becomes available.