The island nation of Sri Lanka has rolled out an ambitious new visa strategy specifically designed to attract Indian tech professionals and remote workers, announcing a dedicated 12-month Digital Nomad Visa alongside significant extensions to tourist visa validity.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | February 5, 2026 |
| Who’s Affected | Indian remote workers, digital nomads, tourists |
| Key Change | 12-month Digital Nomad Visa + 90-day tourist e-visa |
Major Changes for Indian Remote Workers
Sri Lanka’s Cabinet approved the comprehensive visa overhaul on February 5, 2026, with Tourism Minister Harin Fernando positioning the move as a strategic response to post-pandemic remote work trends. The timing couldn’t be better for Indian professionals – the island nation recorded a remarkable 38% surge in Indian arrivals during 2025, already making India its largest source market.
The Digital Nomad Visa addresses a critical pain point that Indian remote workers previously faced: the need to exit and re-enter Sri Lanka every month to avoid overstay penalties. Now, qualifying professionals can establish themselves on the island for an entire year, with the option to renew once for potentially 24 months of continuous residence.
Financial Requirements and Eligibility
To qualify, Indian applicants must demonstrate:
- Minimum monthly income of USD 2,000 (approximately ₹1,66,000)
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts
- Indian passport valid for at least six months
The streamlined application process runs entirely through the Sri Lanka Immigration & Emigration Department’s new mobile app, eliminating the need for in-person visits to Colombo offices or airport counters.
Enhanced Tourist Visa Benefits
Alongside the nomad visa, Sri Lanka has substantially upgraded its tourist offering for Indian travelers. The standard tourist e-visa duration has tripled from 30 days to 90 days, with an additional 90-day extension available online. This change particularly benefits Indian families planning extended holidays or business travelers making multiple trips.
For comprehensive visa guidance, Indian travelers should review our Sri Lanka Visa Guide for detailed requirements and processing information.
Strategic Advantages for Indian Professionals
With direct flights connecting 12 Indian cities to Colombo, and living costs approximately 25% lower than Bangalore, Sri Lanka presents compelling economics for Indian remote workers. Industry analysts predict cities like Colombo, Galle, and the coastal town of Weligama will emerge as regional co-working hubs.
However, Indian companies sending employees on “work-from-anywhere” assignments should carefully review permanent establishment and payroll obligations. Current Sri Lankan tax law exempts foreign-earned income for the first 183 days, but may trigger local filing requirements thereafter.
Travel advisors recommend Indian digital nomads maintain private medical coverage recognized by Sri Lankan authorities and monitor data security protocols, as public co-working spaces may not meet corporate IT standards. Use our Document Checklist to ensure you have all required paperwork before applying.
Source: Ministry of Tourism, Sri Lanka
FAQ
Q: What is the minimum income requirement for Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa? A: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of USD 2,000 (approximately ₹1,66,000) along with comprehensive health insurance.
Q: How long can Indian digital nomads stay in Sri Lanka? A: The Digital Nomad Visa allows stays of up to 12 months and is renewable once, potentially providing 24 months of continuous residence.
Q: What about the extended tourist e-visa changes? A: Sri Lanka has extended its standard tourist e-visa from 30 days to 90 days, with an additional 90-day extension available online.
Q: Are there tax implications for Indian remote workers? A: Income earned for foreign employers remains tax-exempt for the first 183 days, but may trigger local tax filing requirements thereafter.
Q: Can families accompany digital nomad visa holders? A: Yes, families can accompany nomad visa holders, but spouses need separate dependent passes and children must enroll in international schools.