Sri Lanka has begun offering a new digital nomad visa in a bid to attract foreign remote workers, freelancers, and internationally focused entrepreneurs to live and work on the island – while boosting the local economy through longer-term stays and higher-spending visitors.

The move comes as Sri Lanka’s tourism profile continues to rise. Jaffna has taken first place in Lonely Planet’s “Most exciting destinations 2026” ranking – and notably, it is the only Asian destination included in the publication’s top 15. The government has also been expanding its visa policies: in mid-2025, Sri Lanka added 33 more countries to its free one-month visa programme, bringing the total number of eligible nations to 40.

Who qualifies for Sri Lanka’s digital nomad visa

To apply, foreign nationals must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Work remotely, freelance, or own a business
• Ensure that their employer or clients are based outside Sri Lanka
• Run a business that is not registered in Sri Lanka
• The minimum monthly income requirement is set at $2,000 per person.
• Family members are allowed – but income thresholds rise

Primary applicants can bring spouses and children, but the income requirement increases if dependants are included.

Sri Lanka’s rules raise the threshold by an additional $500 per month for each of up to two dependants.

Application fee and where to apply

The digital nomad visa comes with a $500 annual application fee.

Applications are submitted to the country’s Department of Immigration and Emigration.

What the visa allows

Holders of the new visa can legally live in Sri Lanka for up to 12 months, with the option to renew annually.

The visa also grants the ability to:

• Open and maintain personal bank accounts in Sri Lanka
• Buy and sell property under legal agreements
• Enrol children in international or private schools
• Use coworking spaces
• Join ICT programmes

Attend tourism-related events organised by government or the private sector

Why Sri Lanka is pushing for long-stay visitors

Sri Lanka’s strategy reflects a growing trend across Asia and Europe: competing for remote workers who can stay longer than traditional tourists and contribute more consistently to local businesses, rental markets, and service industries.

With Jaffna now gaining global attention and visa access becoming easier for more nationalities, the country is positioning itself as a serious alternative to more established digital nomad hubs in Southeast Asia.