Sri Lanka's New Digital Nomad Visa: Everything Remote Workers Need to Know (2026)

Sri Lanka just launched its long-awaited digital nomad visa — and it could be the most exciting relocation opportunity for remote workers this year. If you've ever dreamed of working from a café in Galle, watching sunsets over the Indian Ocean in Mirissa, or taking slow weekend train rides through the tea-draped hills of Ella, this visa was made for you.

Here's everything you need to know about Sri Lanka's new digital nomad visa: who qualifies, how much it costs, what documents you'll need, and why this island might just become your next base.

What Is Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa?

First discussed as far back as 2021 and formally approved by the Cabinet of Ministers in 2023, Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) officially launched in February 2026. It's a one-year renewable residence visa issued by Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration and Emigration, designed specifically for remote workers who earn income from clients or employers based outside the country.

According to the Department, the visa is designed to "attract foreign professionals who wish to live and work remotely from Sri Lanka while serving clients or companies based outside of the country."

Notably, Sri Lanka is being recognised as the first country in the region to offer an official digital nomad visa, putting it ahead of neighbouring countries like Indonesia and Thailand, which are still reportedly developing their own programs.

Who Is Eligible for the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa?

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: 18 years or older

• Work status: Must be a remote employee of a foreign company, a freelancer, or a business owner whose company is not registered in Sri Lanka

• Income: Minimum monthly income of $2,000 USD, remitted through the Sri Lankan banking system

• Income with dependents: The $2,000 threshold applies if you have fewer than two children. For each additional child beyond that, the requirement increases by $500 USD per dependent

• No local employment: You cannot work for Sri Lankan companies or generate income from Sri Lankan sources under this visa

Spouses and dependent children are eligible to accompany the main applicant.

How Much Does the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa Cost?

The visa fee is $500 USD per applicant per year. It is renewable annually, meaning you can legally stay in Sri Lanka for multiple years as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

One important note for renewal: after your first year, you will need to submit proof of tax registration with Sri Lanka's Inland Revenue Department. This doesn't necessarily mean you'll pay local income tax, but registration and compliance filings are mandatory. This is a step many first-time applicants overlook, so plan ahead.

What Documents Do You Need?

The application is submitted to the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Residence Visa Division online. Required documents include:

• Completed visa application form

• A formal request letter from the applicant

• Photocopy of passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Two recent passport-sized photographs

• Marriage Certificate (for spouse)

• Birth Certificate (for dependents)

• Completed security clearance form

• Medical clearance report

• Proof of a clean criminal record from your home country's police (issued within the last 3 months)

• International health insurance valid in Sri Lanka

• Recommendation from the Ministry of Digital Economy

• Proof of minimum monthly income remittance

Processing times are not officially published yet, but immigration specialists estimate approximately 2–4 weeks for application review.

What Are the Perks of the Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa?

Beyond the legal right to live and work remotely, visa holders are entitled to:

• Open personal bank accounts in Sri Lanka

• Enroll dependent children in international or private schools

• Access co-working spaces and participate in government- and private-sector-organised tourism events

One thing to keep in mind: if your employment, income, or dependent status changes at any point, you must notify the Department of Immigration and Emigration within 30 days.

Why Sri Lanka? The Case for Making It Your Base

Sri Lanka has always punched above its weight as a travel destination, but for digital nomads, the draw goes beyond the scenery.

Cost of living remains significantly lower than in most Western countries and even many Southeast Asian nomad hubs. A comfortable lifestyle, decent accommodation, good food, and occasional travel around the island is very achievable on a moderate remote income.

The lifestyle is the real sell. Sri Lanka rewards the kind of slow, curious travel that suits the nomad mindset: sunrise train rides from Kandy to Ella through mist-covered tea estates, afternoons exploring the 16th-century ramparts of Galle Fort, weekend safaris in Yala National Park, and surf sessions along the south coast.

The culture is layered and accessible. Ancient temples in Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, Buddhist heritage, incredible food, and a warmth toward visitors that makes it easy to feel at home quickly.

A practical note on internet speeds: It's worth setting expectations here. Sri Lanka currently ranks 131st in the world for fixed broadband speeds according to the Speedtest Global Index. Coworking spaces in major hubs like Colombo and Galle tend to offer much more reliable connectivity than residential areas. If fast, stable internet is non-negotiable for your work, factor this into your setup and choose your base city carefully. I had some issues with internet connection due to power cuts. But more and more coworking spots are opening, and they are much more reliable.

Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa: Key Facts at a Glance

Is Sri Lanka's Digital Nomad Visa Right for You?

If you earn at least $2,000 a month working remotely for foreign clients or employers, can gather the required documentation, and are drawn to an island that offers incredible natural beauty, cultural depth, and a genuinely low cost of living. Sri Lanka's digital nomad visa is worth serious consideration.

It's one of the more accessible digital nomad visas in Asia in terms of income threshold, and the annual renewal option means you can genuinely put down roots rather than constantly resetting your stay with border runs or tourist visa extensions.

The program is new, so some processes are still somewhat slow and evolving. Always verify the latest requirements directly with the Department of Immigration and Emigration before you apply.

Sources

• CNBC — "Sri Lanka launched a new digital nomad visa: How to apply"

• Euronews Travel — "Dreamy beaches and incredible wildlife: Sri Lanka just launched a digital nomad visa"

Last updated: February 2026. Visa requirements and fees are subject to change. Always verify the latest information at the official Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration website.