Sri Lanka Implements New Visa Policies to Boost Tourism and Foreign Investment

Quick Look:

1. Sri Lanka introduces new visa policies, making it easier for students and digital nomads to stay long-term with simplified processes and lower fees.
2. The new “investment visa” category aims to attract investors by replacing existing residence visa options.
3. Sri Lanka also introduces new visa categories for expatriate staff, spouses of Sri Lankan nationals, and those with past ties to the country. Visa-free travel is also available for select nationals.

Planning a move to Sri Lanka or eyeing this island nation for your next big investment? The Sri Lankan government is rolling out welcoming changes to its visa policies that are worth your attention. Whether you’re a student, a digital nomad, an investor, or just dreaming of a life in this beautiful country, there’s good news on the horizon.

Life Just Got Easier for Students and Digital Nomads

Sri Lanka is already known for its captivating landscapes and rich culture, and now it’s set to become an even more attractive destination for students and remote workers. Under the new visa measures, foreign students can bid farewell to the hassle of annual renewals. With a one-time fee of US$200, students can secure their visa for their entire period of study. It’s a straightforward process that means less paperwork and more time to enjoy the Sri Lankan lifestyle.

For digital nomads, the news is equally exciting. If you earn a monthly income of US$2,000 or more, you can apply for a Sri Lankan digital nomad visa. This allows you to live and work in this tropical paradise while maintaining your global commitments.

Introducing the New ‘Investment Visa’

Sri Lanka has its arms wide open for investors. The introduction of a new “investment visa” category simplifies things by replacing several existing residence visa categories, including Golden Paradise, Condominium, Resident Guest Scheme, and My Dream Visa. Details on the required investment thresholds are forthcoming, and the business community is watching closely for updates.

Residency Gets More Inclusive

The inclusivity doesn’t stop there. A new visa category is being created specifically for the Colombo Port City Economic Commission’s expatriate staff and their families. Additionally, if you’re married to a Sri Lankan national, a new residence visa category will make it easier for you and your family, including your parents, to call Sri Lanka home.

For those with past ties to the country, a visa category will be introduced to restore lapsed Sri Lankan citizenship, including coverage for dependent children, foreign parents, and widows.

Visa-Free Travel for Select Nationals

Sri Lanka is not just simplifying visas; they’re doing away with them entirely for short visits by travelers from select countries. If you’re from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, or Thailand, you can enjoy visa-free travel to Sri Lanka until March 31, 2024. Don’t forget, you’ll still need to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization before you pack your bags, but once that’s done, you can stay for up to 30 days with the freedom of multiple entries.

A Bright Future for Sri Lanka’s Borders

These new initiatives are a clear signal that Sri Lanka is serious about attracting more students, professionals, investors, and visitors. “The new measures should benefit employees, as well as foreign spouses and students who wish to stay in Sri Lanka,” said government officials.

Expected to take effect by the end of 2023, the simplification of the visa system is poised to open up new opportunities for many. For the latest information on diving into life in Sri Lanka, keep an eye on updates from Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration. Whether you’re planning your studies, setting up a business, or embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, Sri Lanka’s doors are opening wider than ever before.

So, whether you’re dreaming of studying, working remotely, or investing in Sri Lanka, the new visa changes have got you covered. Say goodbye to endless renewals and hello to hassle-free living in paradise. These changes are just the beginning, and there’s even more to discover on visaverge.com. So go ahead, explore your options and start planning your Sri Lankan adventure today!

Pocket Piece:

Planning a move or investment in Sri Lanka? Good news! The government is introducing new visa policies to make it easier. Students can secure their visa for their entire study period with a one-time fee of $200. Digital nomads earning $2,000/month can apply for a special visa. Investors, expatriate staff, and families can also enjoy simplified residency. Visa-free travel is available for select nationals. Sri Lanka is opening its doors wider than ever before!

Did you Know?

Did You Know?

1. The United States has the highest number of immigrants in the world, with over 44 million foreign-born residents. This makes up about 13.7% of the total U.S. population.

2. According to the United Nations, there were over 272 million international migrants worldwide in 2019. This number has been steadily increasing over the years.

3. Canada has one of the highest immigration rates in the world, with approximately 21.5% of its population being foreign-born.

4. The concept of “birthright citizenship” is not unique to the United States. It is also recognized in over 30 countries, including Canada, Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico.

5. The United States operates the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, also known as the Green Card Lottery. Each year, approximately 50,000 visas are randomly awarded to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S.

6. The world’s largest refugee camp is located in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, housing over 900,000 Rohingya refugees who fled violence in Myanmar.

7. Germany is the top destination for refugees in Europe, with over 1.4 million asylum applications filed between 2015 and 2020.

8. The Great Famine in Ireland during the mid-19th century led to one of the largest waves of Irish immigration to the United States. Over one million people emigrated from Ireland to escape starvation and economic hardship.

9. Angel Island in San Francisco Bay, California, was once known as the “Ellis Island of the West.” It served as the primary immigration station on the U.S. West Coast from 1910 to 1940, processing immigrants, predominantly from China, Japan, and other Asian countries.

10. The United Arab Emirates has one of the highest proportions of immigrants in the world, with approximately 88% of its population being foreign-born. Most of these immigrants come from South Asia, particularly India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

These fascinating facts showcase the diversity and complexity of immigration worldwide, highlighting the various countries and historical events that have shaped migration patterns. They provide a broad perspective on the topic and encourage readers to delve deeper into the subject of immigration.

Learn Today: Key Terms Explained

Glossary:

1. Visa: A document or endorsement affixed to a passport that allows the holder to enter, stay, or reside in a foreign country for a specific period and purpose.

2. Digital Nomads: Individuals who use telecommunications technology to earn a living and conduct their work remotely while constantly traveling and living in different countries.

3. Investment Visa: A visa category specifically designed to attract investors by offering streamlined processes and benefits, such as residency or other privileges, in exchange for a certain level of investment in the host country.

4. Expatriate: A person who resides in a country different from their own for various reasons, such as employment, education, or lifestyle choices.

5. Residency: The state or status of being a resident in a particular country, often granted through a residency visa or permit.

6. Residence Visa: A type of visa that allows an individual to live and stay in a foreign country for an extended period, usually for work, study, or family reunification purposes.

7. Sri Lankan National: A citizen or individual who holds Sri Lankan citizenship.

8. Visa-Free Travel: The ability to enter and stay in a foreign country for a limited period without the need to obtain a visa in advance.

9. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): An online system or process that allows travelers from certain countries to obtain authorization to enter another country for short-term visits.

10. Department of Immigration and Emigration: The government agency responsible for managing immigration and emigration processes and policies in Sri Lanka.