Getting documents for moving to another country is always an exciting process. Here you will find detailed information to easily obtain a resident visa for Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is a dream for many tourists. It is hard not to fall in love with this island. After all, its culture and history are impressive, despite the size of the territory. And the landscapes with tropical forests, beaches and attractions are often breath-taking. Many immigrants come here not only to travel, but also to live and work. Many foreigners work here in the tourism industry, teach English or help build infrastructure. All visitors believe that the locals are friendly and good-natured. It is easy to get along with them and you can always get support or help.

The cost of living in Sri Lanka is relatively low, so many expats enjoy a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle here.

However, it is not so easy to immigrate to the country for permanent residence. Foreigners are attracted by the fact that there are very affordable prices for buying real estate. But, even if you buy a home in the country, it will not be a prerequisite for obtaining citizenship.

Residence visa

The first thing you need to do is to collect all the necessary documents and apply to the Department of the Republic for Immigration and Emigration. Here you can be issued a permit if you meet the requirements. Not everyone can get such a visa, but only

- the husband or wife of a Sri Lankan citizen;

- citizens who are studying there;

- foreigners working on government projects;

- investors and businessmen who invest in the country's economy;

- children of island residents who have foreign citizenship;

- as well as pensioners with high financial standing.

More information about each country can be found here.

In order to apply for a resident visa the following documents are required:

1. a copy of the passport;
2. application form;
3. proof of citizenship (if someone in the couple is a foreigner);
4. certificate of no criminal record;
5. copy of birth certificate and marriage certificate of parents;
6. documents confirming the receipt of a permit for permanent residence (letter of recommendation from the Investment Committee, employer, non-governmental organizations or the Ministry of Higher Education).

Such visa can be valid only for 1 year, then it must be extended. Residents of the CIS countries can apply for a visa online or at the airport. This visa allows you to stay in the country for 30 days.

How to apply for permanent residence

To legalize your stay in the country you can choose one of several options:

• If you follow the Bol laws and register your company in Sri Lanka, you are automatically eligible for permanent residence here.
• Another option is to get letters of recommendation from companies or ministry of the industry where you are going to work.
• If the above options fail, you can also get approval from the Colombo Department. However, this is possible if you meet the requirements that benefit the country. In short, you need to show what good you can bring or do for the country.

In general, life here brings a lot of positive emotions. And even despite all the difficulties in obtaining permanent residence, it is worth trying to immigrate for the sake of such a country.