Sri Lanka student visa

The educational category covers students at Sri Lankan universities, students at other government-approved educational institutions, volunteers and interns. One guardian of a student under 16 can be included. Short courses that fit a visit, such as a yoga or Ayurveda programme, are handled through the tourist or business ETA instead.

University students submit a recommendation from the Ministry of Higher Education and a letter from the university, together with their passport data page, passport and the Health Protection Plan (HPP).

Students of other approved institutions submit a request letter from the institution, the Department's form, a recommendation from their country's embassy or high commission in Sri Lanka, and bank encashment receipts showing US$1,500 per year for each person. The same applies to a guardian accompanying a child under 16. Volunteers need a letter from their organisation and the recommendation of the relevant line ministry.

Sri Lankan missions explain that the sponsoring institution in Sri Lanka first applies to the Controller General of Immigration and Emigration, at least 45 days before arrival. After approval the Sri Lankan embassy or high commission in the student's country is authorised to issue an entry visa, and the residence visa is then issued in Sri Lanka.

Most residence applicants must buy the Ministry of Health's Health Protection Plan through health.gov.lk/IHU and may be asked for a police report from their home country for security clearance.

The student visa is a Residence Visa-1 and costs US$200 for each year or part of a year. It is renewed every year; students must provide a performance report for the current year, and volunteers need fresh recommendations from the ministry and institution. Renew at least two months before your passport expires.