Digital Nomad Visa Information and FAQ
Eligibility, taxation, renewals, and official details from the Department of Immigration and the Inland Revenue Department.
Last Updated: February 22nd 2026
The Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) is an initiative designed to attract foreign professionals—including freelancers and business owners—to live and work remotely from Sri Lanka for up to one year while serving clients or companies based outside the country.
- Eligibility: Open to foreign nationals (18+) and their dependents.
- Income Requirement: A minimum monthly remittance of USD 2,000 for the main applicant. If the applicant has more than two dependents, an additional USD 500 per month must be remitted for each extra person.
- Duration: Valid for 01 year and is renewable annually.
- Fees: The annual visa fee is USD 500 each for the main applicant, spouse, and every dependent.
- Key Benefits: Legal residence for 12 months, the ability to open personal bank accounts, and the right to enroll children in international schools.
- Official Resource: Digital Nomad Visa Category Details
Digital Nomad Visa FAQ
This FAQ has been compiled using discussions with the Department of Immigration and Emigration and the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
Taxation & Residency
Does staying beyond 183 days trigger local tax residency?
- Yes. Staying in Sri Lanka for more than 183 days in any 12-month period automatically makes you a tax resident.
What are the tax rates for a nomad earning $2,000/month?
- Effective April 1, 2025, foreign-sourced income is subject to tax if you are a tax resident. However, if remitted through a Sri Lankan bank, a preferential flat rate capped at 15% applies rather than standard progressive rates.
- First LKR 1,800,000: 0% (Personal Tax-Free Allowance).
- Next LKR 1,000,000: 6%.
- Balance: Taxed at the preferential rate up to 15%.
How can I avoid double taxation?
- Under Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAA), you can claim a Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) for taxes paid in Sri Lanka against your home country's liability.
Is tax registration mandatory?
- Yes. Proof of Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) registration is mandatory for visa renewal.
Employment & Family
Can my spouse work while in Sri Lanka?
- Remote Work: Yes, a spouse on a dependent visa can work for foreign clients or companies without extra permits.
- Local Jobs: No. To work for a Sri Lankan company, they must switch to a formal Residence Visa (Employment).
Can we combine salaries to meet the $2,000 monthly requirement?
- No. The primary holder must individually meet the $2,000 USD monthly income target.
Visa Logistics & Renewals
Is there a limit on how many years I can renew?
- Currently, there is no cap on the number of years you can renew, provided income requirements are met.
What happens if I lose my remote job?
- You must notify Immigration within 30 days of any change in employment or income. Officials are generally reasonable if you can show a new contract is starting.
Are fresh clearances required for renewal?
- A fresh Police Clearance is usually required for renewals, but the initial medical check is typically only required once.
Is this a multiple-entry visa?
- Yes, it is a multiple-entry visa by default, and there are no "minimum days" required to keep the visa valid.
Pending Information & Clarifications
We are currently awaiting official feedback on the following community concerns:
- Repatriation of Funds (Pending Central Bank Feedback): We are seeking a documented process for how nomads can easily transfer funds back out of Sri Lankan accounts upon the conclusion of their stay.
- Multiple Income Streams (Pending Immigration Feedback): Clarification on whether the $2,000 requirement can be met by totaling multiple sources (e.g., retirement, social security, and gig work).
- Public Services Access: Determining the extent to which DNV holders can access local healthcare or educational infrastructure benefits beyond private options.
Disclaimer
This information is a best-effort summary based on current documentation and consultations with the Department of Immigration and the Inland Revenue Department. Government policies and legal interpretations can change. This is not legal or professional tax advice. We strongly recommend verifying all details with the relevant authorities or a qualified professional before making financial or travel commitments.