The beautiful island of Sri Lanka is preparing to issue visas specifically for digital nomads. This Digital Nomad visa is great news for anyone wishing to work remotely while enjoying the beauty and hospitality of this popular South Asian tourist destination.
Conditions for obtaining a Digital Nomad visa for Sri Lanka
To be eligible for the Digital Nomad visa offered by Sri Lanka, applicants must meet certain essential conditions:
- Valid passport : A passport valid for at least 6 months is required.
- Working remotely : Applicants must be working as an employee, contractor or freelancer, with income from abroad.
- Minimum income : The minimum monthly income required is USD 2,000.
- International health insurance : Health insurance cover must be taken out for the duration of the stay in Sri Lanka. It is also important to note that the minimum income must be processed through the Sri Lankan banking system.
Where to live and work remotely in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of places to live and work remotely. Here are a few suggestions:
- Colombo: The country's economic capital, Colombo offers numerous coworking spaces, connected cafés and affordable accommodation.
- Galle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this charming colonial town on the south coast is perfect for self-employed people looking for a peaceful, culturally rich setting.
- Mirissa: Renowned for its magnificent beaches and surf-friendly waves, this seaside resort is an ideal destination for working while enjoying the pleasures of the beach.
- Weligama: Also on the south coast, Weligama offers a relaxed atmosphere and is appreciated for the warm welcome of its inhabitants.
- Dikwella: Dikwella is a small town on the east coast, with beautiful beaches and surf spots. Far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, it's a great place to work in peace and quiet.
Important factors to consider when choosing a place to live and Sri Lanka
Before choosing your place of residence in Sri Lanka, it is essential to consider several criteria:
- Cost of living : The cost of living in Sri Lanka is generally very affordable, especially in comparison with other Southeast Asian countries.
- Access to healthcare : The Sri Lankan healthcare system is generally good, but public services are sometimes overloaded.
- Tourist attractions : Sri Lanka is packed with tourist attractions, including dream beaches, majestic mountains, temples and ancient ruins.
The Digital Nomad visa in Sri Lanka: economic leverage
The number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka is already rising significantly, with a peak of 143,039 arrivals last July.
By approving the introduction of the Digital Nomad visa, the Sri Lankan government is pursuing a very specific objective: to boost its tourism sector and attract a new wave of self-employed workers. The aim is to bolster the local economy and boost foreign currency reserves. This strategic initiative aims to diversify revenue sources and promote long-term economic stability.