Sri Lanka Extends Tourist Stays And Launches Digital Nomad Visa

Work, Stay, Explore

Sri Lanka introduced a new Digital Nomad Visa, allowing remote workers to live on the island for up to one year while continuing to work for employers or clients based overseas. Additionally, the government has extended the validity of tourist visas, signalling a clear shift in how the country approaches tourism and long-term stays.

The Digital Nomad Visa is aimed at freelancers, entrepreneurs and salaried employees whose work can be done entirely online. Applicants must be over 18 years old and earn at least USD 2,000 per month from foreign sources and are not permitted to take up employment with Sri Lankan companies. The visa, which costs USD 500 for the first year, can be renewed and also covers families, subject to higher income requirements.

Sri Lanka’s move places it among a growing number of countries seeking to attract workers who are mobile, financially independent and able to contribute to local economies without entering domestic labour markets.

For Sri Lanka, the economic motivation is clear. The country has faced prolonged financial strain in recent years, with tourism among the sectors hardest hit. By encouraging long-term stays, the government hopes to attract a steadier flow of foreign income. Digital nomads tend to spend consistently on accommodation, food, transport and services, offering more sustained economic activity than short-term visitors.

Extension of Tourist Visas

Sri Lanka has also extended the validity of its tourist visas, allowing visitors to stay in the country for up to 180 days. These visas can be obtained through the Electronic Tourist Visa (ETA) system, which is accessible online or via a mobile app. 

The extended tourist visa costs approximately USD 70 for SAARC nationals, USD 85 for non-SAARC travellers, and USD 50 for visitors from Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles under bilateral agreements.

On February 4, the government of Sri Lanka provided clarification on application procedures and introduced online processing, signalling the move from announcing the policy to putting it into practice. 

According to officials, these reforms are intended to modernise the country’s immigration system, keep pace with global remote-work trends, and draw long-term visitors who support the local economy without taking jobs from residents.