Sri Lanka Golden Paradise Residence Visa

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 12 February, 2026

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length Up to 10 years.

Possible to extend? Yes, can be extended to complete the full 10-year period.

Who can apply? Foreign nationals willing to make the qualifying investment; spouses and children can be included.

Minimum Income Requirements Must show financial self-sufficiency; the main requirement is a USD 200,000 foreign currency investment.

Time for visa applications Typically several weeks after submitting all documents.

Want to know if you can apply?

Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!

Sri Lanka is opening its doors to long-term international investors with the Sri Lanka Golden Visa, officially known as the Golden Paradise Visa. Designed for foreign nationals who want to live, invest, and build long-term ties with the country, this visa offers a clear and government-backed pathway to residency for up to 10 years.

Launched by the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka, the Golden Paradise Visa allows eligible investors and their families to enjoy life in Sri Lanka while making a qualifying foreign currency investment through approved local banks. Whether you are looking for a tropical base, a stable investment destination, or long-term residence in South Asia, this visa program provides a structured and transparent option, supported entirely by official government regulations.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the Sri Lanka Golden Visa, including eligibility criteria, investment requirements, application steps, benefits, and official fees.

Sri Lanka Golden Visa Overview

The Sri Lanka Golden Paradise Visa is a long-term residence visa introduced by the Government of Sri Lanka to attract foreign investors and high-net-worth individuals. The program was launched as part of Sri Lanka’s efforts to encourage foreign currency inflows and long-term investment, while offering eligible applicants the opportunity to live in the country for an extended period.

This visa is a long-term residence permit valid for up to 10 years, granted to foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment through a designated foreign currency account with a licensed Sri Lankan bank. It is administered by the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka and operates under clearly defined government guidelines.

Unlike short-term visas or standard residence permits, the Golden Paradise Visa is designed for individuals who want to establish a lasting connection with Sri Lanka, whether for investment, lifestyle, education, or family reasons, while complying fully with official immigration regulations.

Who Is It For?

The Sri Lanka Golden Visa is intended for foreign nationals who are willing to make a qualifying foreign currency investment in Sri Lanka and wish to reside in the country on a long-term basis. It is particularly suited for:

International investors seeking long-term residence in Sri Lanka.
Retirees or entrepreneurs looking for a stable base in South Asia.
Individuals and families interested in living, studying, or investing in Sri Lanka.
Eligible applicants who wish to include their spouse and dependents under one residence framework.

Applicants must meet the investment and documentation requirements set by the Sri Lankan government and maintain their qualifying investment throughout the visa period.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

Holders of the Golden Paradise Visa are permitted to reside in Sri Lanka for up to 10 years while maintaining their approved investment. The visa allows you to:

Live legally in Sri Lanka on a long-term basis.
Invest in approved sectors in accordance with government regulations.
Open and maintain foreign currency accounts in Sri Lanka.
Purchase eligible condominium properties or lease property, subject to local laws.
Study in Sri Lanka at recognized educational institutions.
Include eligible family members under the same visa program.

The Golden Paradise Visa provides residence and investment privileges but is governed strictly by Sri Lankan immigration laws. Any activities beyond those officially permitted are subject to additional approvals or separate visa conditions.

Sri Lanka Golden Visa Requirements

To apply for the Sri Lanka Golden Paradise Visa, applicants must submit a set of standard immigration documents along with several key supporting requirements related to investment, financial stability, and health. All documents must be valid, complete, and submitted in line with the guidelines issued by the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka.

Applicants are generally required to provide the following core documents:

Completed Golden Paradise Visa application forms.
A valid passport with sufficient remaining validity.
Recent passport-sized photographs meeting immigration specifications.
Copy of the passport biographical data page
Birth certificate or proof of civil status (where applicable)
Marriage certificate and birth certificates for dependents (if applying as a family)
Police clearance certificate issued by the applicant’s country of residence.
Medical report issued by an approved medical authority.
Proof of payment of the applicable visa fees.

Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s nationality, family composition, or investment structure.

Proof of Qualifying Investment

One of the central requirements for the Golden Paradise Visa is evidence of a qualifying foreign currency investment in Sri Lanka. To meet this criterion, applicants must open a Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account (GPFCA) with a bank licensed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and deposit a minimum of USD 200,000 (or equivalent in another designated foreign currency) into this account.

This investment capital must be verifiably transferred into the approved account and remain for the duration of the visa period, though investors may withdraw up to 50 % of the initial deposit after completing the first year of residence on the visa. The government uses this requirement to ensure a sustained foreign currency inflow while giving investors flexibility for local expenditures once the first year has passed.

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

Beyond the qualifying investment, applicants must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, meaning you must show that you and any accompanying dependents have sufficient funds to support your ongoing stay in Sri Lanka without becoming financially burdensome.

This typically involves providing recent bank statements, proof of income, or evidence of other liquid assets that clearly indicate you can cover living expenses, housing costs, healthcare costs, and other personal expenditures while residing in Sri Lanka. Although there is no formalized minimum amount specified in the primary government circular beyond the investment itself, demonstrating solid financial backing reassures immigration authorities that you can sustain your lifestyle for the duration of your stay.

Police Clearance Certificate

To verify that applicants do not have serious criminal records, the Sri Lankan immigration authorities require police clearance certificates from the applicant’s country of residence. These certificates must be recent (usually issued within six months before application) and must cover all relevant individuals included in the visa application, including spouses and dependent adults. This requirement helps ensure that applicants are in good legal standing and pose no security risk while residing in Sri Lanka.

Medical Examination Report

A formal medical examination report is another mandatory part of the application. This report must be issued by a recognized medical institution and demonstrate that you (and any dependents) are free from specified communicable diseases as required under Sri Lankan immigration protocols. These health screenings typically include tests for conditions such as malaria, tuberculosis, and other diseases noted in official guidance. Providing a current and official medical report helps support the health eligibility component of the visa process.

How to Apply for the Sri Lanka Golden Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Sri Lanka Golden Paradise Visa involves a structured process overseen by the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka. Applicants must complete each step carefully and ensure all financial and documentation requirements are met before submission. Below is an overview of how the application process works from start to finish.

Step 1: Open a Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account

The first step in the application process is opening a Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account (GPFCA) with a bank licensed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. This account is specifically designated for the Golden Paradise Visa program and must be opened in the applicant’s name. Once the account is active, the required qualifying investment must be transferred into it in an approved foreign currency.

Step 2: Make the Qualifying Investment

After opening the designated account, applicants must deposit the minimum qualifying investment amount of USD 200,000 (or its equivalent) into the Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account. Official bank confirmation of this deposit is required, as it serves as primary evidence that the financial investment condition of the visa has been met. This confirmation will later be submitted as part of the visa application.

Step 3: Gather All Required Documents

Applicants must then prepare all mandatory supporting documents, including completed visa application forms, a valid passport, photographs, police clearance certificates, medical examination reports, proof of private health insurance, and civil status documents for any accompanying family members. All documents must be accurate, current, and compliant with Sri Lankan immigration requirements.

Step 4: Submit the Visa Application

Once all documents are ready, the complete application, including proof of investment and supporting paperwork, must be submitted to the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka through the official channels designated for the Golden Paradise Visa. Applications are reviewed strictly based on official guidelines, and incomplete submissions may result in delays or rejection.

Step 5: Pay the Applicable Visa Fees

Applicants are required to pay the official visa processing fee as prescribed by the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Payment must be made through approved payment methods, and proof of payment must be included with the application. Fees apply to the main applicant as well as any dependents included in the application.

Step 6: Application Review and Approval

After submission, the immigration authorities review the application, verify the investment, and assess all supporting documentation. During this stage, applicants may be contacted for clarification or additional documents if required. Once approved, the Golden Paradise Visa is issued, granting long-term residence status in Sri Lanka.

Step 7: Enter Sri Lanka and Maintain Compliance

Following visa approval, applicants may enter Sri Lanka and begin residing under the conditions of the Golden Paradise Visa. Visa holders must continue to maintain their qualifying investment, keep valid health insurance, and comply with all Sri Lankan immigration and residence regulations throughout the visa period.

Stay Requirements Under the Sri Lanka Golden Visa

Holders of the Sri Lanka Golden Visa are permitted to reside in Sri Lanka for the full duration of the visa, which may be granted for up to ten years. This is provided they continue to comply with the conditions of the program. At present, the official guidelines do not impose a minimum physical stay requirement, meaning visa holders are not required to spend a fixed number of days per year in Sri Lanka to maintain the validity of their visa. This makes the Golden Paradise Visa suitable for individuals who wish to maintain flexibility in their travel and residence patterns.

However, visa holders are required to maintain their qualifying investment in accordance with government regulations throughout the validity period of the visa. Any withdrawal, transfer, or closure of the designated Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account must comply strictly with the rules set by the Department of Immigration and Emigration and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. Failure to maintain the required investment may result in the cancellation of the visa.

In addition, Golden Visa holders must ensure that all supporting conditions remain valid during their stay. This includes maintaining valid private health insurance, holding a valid passport at all times, and complying with Sri Lankan laws and immigration regulations while residing in the country. Any significant changes in personal circumstances, such as passport renewal, changes in family status, or extended absence, may need to be reported to the relevant authorities.

While the Golden Paradise Visa provides long-term residence rights, it does not exempt holders from general immigration compliance. Visa holders must respect the scope of activities permitted under the visa and obtain additional approvals where required. Continued compliance with these stay conditions is essential to preserve lawful residence status in Sri Lanka.

How Much Does the Sri Lanka Golden Visa Cost?

The Sri Lanka Golden Paradise Visa is designed as a long-term residence option with a relatively straightforward cost structure. The primary government fee for the visa is USD 2,000, which is charged for the full 10-year validity period. This fee is payable to the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka at the time of application approval.

In addition to the official visa fee, applicants should be aware of other associated costs that form part of the overall application process. These typically include the qualifying investment requirement of USD 200,000, which must be deposited into a designated Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account. There are also costs related to document preparation, such as police clearance certificates, medical examination reports, certified translations, and private health insurance coverage for the duration of stay.

If dependents such as a spouse or children are included in the application, additional documentation may be required, and separate administrative or processing charges may apply depending on the circumstances. Applicants should also factor in any bank charges related to opening and maintaining the required foreign currency account.

Overall, while the Golden Paradise Visa requires a significant upfront investment, the government fees themselves are fixed and transparent, making it easier for applicants to plan the total cost of obtaining long-term residence in Sri Lanka.

Taxes for People With a Sri Lanka Golden Visa

Holding a Sri Lanka Golden Paradise Visa does not automatically make an individual a tax resident of Sri Lanka. Tax obligations are determined separately under Sri Lankan tax law and depend primarily on tax residency status, the source of income, and the length of physical presence in the country during a tax year.

In general, individuals are considered tax residents of Sri Lanka if they are physically present in the country for 183 days or more in a tax year. Tax residents are typically subject to Sri Lankan income tax on their worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on income sourced within Sri Lanka. As a result, Golden Visa holders who spend limited time in Sri Lanka may remain non-resident for tax purposes, even though they hold long-term residence rights.

Income that arises outside Sri Lanka, such as foreign salaries, dividends, or business income earned abroad, is generally not taxable in Sri Lanka for non-residents. However, Sri Lanka-sourced income, including rental income, employment income performed in Sri Lanka, or profits from local business activities, may be subject to Sri Lankan taxation regardless of visa type.

The qualifying investment made under the Golden Paradise Visa program does not, by itself, create an immediate tax liability. Interest earned on bank deposits, capital gains, or income generated from investments may be taxed depending on the nature of the income and the applicable tax rules in force at the time. Tax treatment can vary based on legislative changes and individual circumstances.

Sri Lanka has entered into Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs) with multiple countries, which may help prevent the same income from being taxed twice. Golden Visa holders who have tax obligations in more than one jurisdiction should review the relevant treaty provisions and seek professional tax advice.

Because tax residency and liabilities depend heavily on personal circumstances, duration of stay, and income structure, Golden Visa holders are strongly advised to consult a qualified tax advisor or accountant familiar with Sri Lankan tax law. This will ensure full compliance while optimizing their tax position.

Living in Sri Lanka with the Golden Visa

Living in Sri Lanka with the Golden Paradise Visa offers the unique opportunity to enjoy long-term residence in a vibrant, tropical country while benefiting from a secure and officially regulated immigration program. This visa is designed for foreign investors, retirees, entrepreneurs, and families who wish to establish a lasting connection with Sri Lanka. As a Golden Visa holder, you can live in the country for up to 10 years, settle with your spouse and dependents, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a government-backed residence permit.

The Golden Visa also allows holders to integrate comfortably into Sri Lankan life while pursuing investment, educational, or personal goals. You have the flexibility to choose your residence, explore business or property opportunities, and participate in local cultural and recreational activities, all while maintaining legal residency status. For many, this visa is not just a permit to stay; it is a gateway to building a long-term life, investment portfolio, and family experience in one of South Asia’s most picturesque and welcoming countries.

Best Cities to Live in Sri Lanka

Choosing where to live in Sri Lanka with your Golden Paradise Visa depends on lifestyle, work, and investment goals. The country offers a mix of bustling urban centers, coastal retreats, and culturally rich towns. Here are three of the best cities to consider:

Colombo

Colombo, the commercial and financial hub of Sri Lanka, is ideal for investors and professionals seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle. The city offers modern infrastructure, international schools, world-class healthcare facilities, and vibrant shopping and dining options. Colombo also hosts major corporate offices and government institutions, making it a strategic base for business and networking opportunities. For Golden Visa holders, Colombo provides a dynamic urban environment with easy access to both local amenities and international connections.

Kandy

Nestled in the central highlands, Kandy is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Known for its cooler climate, scenic landscapes, and the iconic Temple of the Tooth, Kandy offers a slower-paced, culturally immersive lifestyle. It is an excellent choice for families and individuals who value tranquility and cultural experiences while remaining connected to urban conveniences. The city’s mix of residential neighborhoods, schools, and recreational areas makes it a popular destination for long-term residents seeking a balance between nature and community.

Galle

Galle, located on the southwestern coast, is famous for its historic fort, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches. This coastal city appeals to those looking for a relaxed lifestyle with a strong sense of heritage and a thriving tourism economy. For Golden Visa holders interested in real estate investment, hospitality ventures, or a seaside lifestyle, Galle offers both scenic living and business potential. The city combines a rich cultural atmosphere with opportunities for leisure, dining, and engaging with a growing expat community.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD ≈ 309.56 LK.

The average net monthly salary in Sri Lanka is around ₨ 66,890 LKR, which equates to approximately $216 USD per month

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Colombo

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – ~$275–$383 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – ~$372 per month (average)
Basic Utilities – ~$55–$85 per month
Wi‑Fi – ~$14–$15 per month
Public Transport (one‑way) – ~$0.11–$0.18
Groceries (2 people) – ~$250–$350 per month (approximate)

Galle

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – ~$209 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – ~$152 per month
Basic Utilities – ~$56 per month
Wi‑Fi – ~$10 per month
Public Transport (one‑way) – ~$0.17 fiction (approx local bus)
Groceries (2 people) – ~$200–$300 per month (approximate)

Kandy

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – ~$160–$220 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – ~$170–$235 per month
Basic Utilities – ~$25–$40 per month
Wi‑Fi – ~$9–$18 per month
Public Transport (one‑way) – ~$0.17–$0.20
Groceries (2 people) – ~$180–$260 per month (approximate)

FAQs

What is the minimum investment required for the Sri Lanka Golden Visa?

Applicants must make a qualifying foreign currency investment of USD 200,000 or equivalent in a Golden Paradise Foreign Currency Account with a bank licensed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. After completing one year of residency, investors may withdraw up to 50% of the initial deposit while maintaining eligibility for the visa.

Can I include my family members on the Golden Visa?

Yes, eligible dependents, including your spouse and children, can be included under the same visa. You will need to provide civil status documents such as marriage and birth certificates, along with police clearance and medical reports for each family member.

How long is the Golden Paradise Visa valid?

The visa is valid for 10 years and may be renewed according to government regulations. This provides a long-term residence solution for investors and their families in Sri Lanka.

Can Golden Visa holders work in Sri Lanka?

The Golden Visa primarily grants long-term residence and investment privileges. Employment rights are not automatically included, and any work or business activity must comply with Sri Lankan labor and immigration laws. Applicants should confirm specific permissions with the Department of Immigration and Emigration.

What are the health and insurance requirements for the Golden Visa?

Applicants and their dependents must have a medical report from an approved provider confirming they are free of certain communicable diseases. Additionally, private health insurance covering medical treatment in Sri Lanka is mandatory for the duration of the visa.

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans for digital nomads here.

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