Ministry of Internal Administration DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION & EMIGRATION

It has been revealed that many foreign nationals who arrive as tourists to Sri Lanka are engaged in various activities, which are prohibited by law. Therefore it is hereby notified that from 1st November 2006 that all tourists who are given 30 days landing visa on arrival are expected to leave Sri Lanka at the end of the stipulated period.

All categories of person who are expected to engage in paid or unpaid business, trade, work, investments or studies should obtain the necessary entry visa from Sri Lanka Missions abroad with my approval. Please note that under any circumstances no visitor visas will be converted to Residence/Working Visas.

Further information may be obtained from the following places.

1. Visa Division
Department of Immigration and Emigration
Level 03,
No: 41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha,
Punchi Borella, Colombo 10.
Tel: 011-5 329300/ Fax: 011-2674631
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

2. Sri Lanka Missions Overseas

3. Department Web Site : http://www.immigration.gov.lk/

It should be noted that legal action will be taken against those who violate visa conditions and also harbour/employ such persons.

P.B. Abeykoon
Controller of Immigration and Emigration
No: 41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha,
Colombo - 10