Sri Lanka offers pathways for dual citizenship (retention/resumption) and permanent residency for those of Sri Lankan descent or foreign investors. The Golden Paradise Residence Visa provides a 10-year residency option through a USD 200,000 investment.
Citizenship Pathways
Dual Citizenship (Retention/Resumption)
Cost: USD 2,000 (main applicant)
Timeline: 0.5 years
Presence Required: None specified for application, but requires prior connection to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals who previously lost their Sri Lankan citizenship to resume it, or those acquiring foreign citizenship to retain their Sri Lankan citizenship. This pathway requires a prior connection to Sri Lanka and involves a fee of USD 2,000 for the main applicant.
Permanent Residency for Sri Lankan Descent
Cost: USD 400 to USD 1,000
Timeline: 0.5 years
Presence Required: Must reside in Sri Lanka
This new scheme provides a pathway to permanent residency for individuals of Sri Lankan descent and their dependents who are ineligible for dual citizenship. It allows holders to enter, stay, work, engage in business, and access public services in Sri Lanka.
Golden Paradise Residence Visa
Cost: $200,000 investment
Timeline: 10.0 years
Presence Required: Maintain investment for duration of visa
The Golden Paradise Residence Visa offers a long-term residence permit for up to 10 years to foreign investors. It requires a minimum investment of USD 200,000 in a designated foreign currency account, which must be maintained for the visa duration. This program aims to attract foreign currency inflows and long-term ties with Sri Lanka.
Golden Paradise requires significant capital lock-up
Requirements
Application Form — Specific form based on the chosen pathway (e.g., Dual Citizenship, Visa)
Passport Copy — Bio-data page and relevant visa stamps
Birth Certificate — Original or certified copy, especially for descent-based applications
Proof of Funds/Investment — Bank statements, investment certificates for Golden Paradise Visa
Marriage/Children's Birth Certificates — If applying with dependents
Tax System
System: territorial
Sri Lanka operates on a territorial tax system. Residents are taxed on income sourced within Sri Lanka. Foreign-sourced income is generally not taxed unless remitted to Sri Lanka.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get citizenship without prior connection?
No, current citizenship pathways require prior Sri Lankan connection or descent. Investment options are for residency only.
Is the Golden Paradise investment refundable?
The USD 200,000 must be maintained in a designated account for the visa's duration. It is not a direct purchase.
How long does dual citizenship take?
Approximately 0.5 years (6 months) from application submission to approval.