The Department of Immigration and Emigration (DIE) in Sri Lanka is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that the borders are secure, issuing out visas and passports, and tracking persons entering and leaving the borders. The article will inform you about the services, procedures, fines as well as internet tools which the people who actually desire getting passport or visa extension may avail, at the department.
Department of Immigration and Emigration
The Ministry of Public Security operates the Department of Immigration and Emigration. It has the mandate to ensure that all immigration, emigration and international traveling services are legitimate in addition to consideration of the best interests of the country. The department has also gone the digital way and established a system of e-portals to ensure that services within it become more efficient.
Are you interested in working with the Department of Immigration and Emigration? Check the latest Department of Immigration and Emigration vacancies, positions, and application details.
Main Duties
The main things the department is in charge of are:
- Giving out new and renewed Sri Lankan passports
- Taking care of visas and extensions for foreigners
- Giving people dual citizenship and the right to live in the country permanently
- Running immigration and border control checkpoints
- Enforcing laws related to illegal immigration
Overview and Contact Details
| Hotline | 1962 (Available 24/7) |
| General Line | +94 112 101 500 |
| Fax | +94 011 2885 358 |
| Address | Department of Immigration and Emigration, “Suhurupaya”, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka |
| info@immigration.gov.lk | |
| Official Website | www.immigration.gov.lk |
| Important links | |
| Passport Appointment | Click Here |
| Apply for a Passport Online | Click Here |
| All Applications (Passport, Overseas Birth Registration,Citizenship – (Special Provisions), Dual Citizenship, Visa, Overseas Missions) | Click Here |
| Alteration of Passports | Click Here |
| Lost or stolen passport Instruction | Click Here |
| General Information on Citizenship | Click Here |
| General Information – Visa | Click Here |
| Tourist Visa | Click Here |
| Business Visa | Click Here |
| Extending free visa | Click Here |
| Visit Visa | Click Here |
| Online Tourist Visa Extension | Click Here |
Department of Immigration and Emigration – Passport Applications (2025)
| Apply for a Passport Online – Guidelines | Download PDF |
| Online Fill and Printable Travel Document Application – New/Renew Passports | Download PDF |
| Travel Document Application – New/Renew Passports | Download PDF |
| Travel Document Instructions – Sinhala | Download PDF |
| Travel Document Instructions – Tamil | Download PDF |
| Travel Document Instructions – English | Download PDF |
| Amendments & Alterations | Download DF |
| Children Deletion | Download PDF |
| Lost or stolen passport complaint form | Download PDF |
| Request to issue a separate passport to child | Download PDF |
| Application to Courier Sri Lankan Passports | Download PDF |
E-Services Offered
The department offers a range of online services to make the process fast and accessible:
- Online passport appointments
- Visa applications and extensions
- e-Visa portal for tourists
- Dual citizenship application portal
- Application tracking and payment gateways
Visit the eServices portal: eservices.immigration.gov.lk
This is a neat, logical and easy to understand version of your information on the procedure of applying a new passport in the Sri Lankan state. It has been optimized on search engines, clarity and ease of use. I did split it into concrete parts, using bullet point and a table, however, I did not remove all that was important.
🇱🇰 New Passport Application Process in Sri Lanka – Full Guide
On August 10, 2015 the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka started issuing biometric passports. The new procedure will enable easy identification and retaining of people through digital photographs and fingerprints.
This is the latest and exhaustive guidelines on how to apply in a new Sri Lankan passport. It contains information on the way to apply, which biometric information you should have, when to visit the office, and other essential details that you need to know.
Digital Photograph & Fingerprint Requirements
Mandatory from August 2015
All applicants must now provide:
- A digital photograph (printed photos are no longer accepted)
- Fingerprints (for ages 16–60)
Where to Provide These:
| Service | Where It Happens |
|---|---|
| Digital Photograph | Authorized photo studios / Passport Office |
| Fingerprint Capture | Head Office or Regional Offices |
For Overseas Applicants:
Sri Lankans applying via diplomatic missions abroad are exempt from providing digital photos and fingerprints.
Required Passport Application Form
- Form K 35A must be used for all applications (including children).
- This form is available:
- At the Department Head Office & Regional Offices
- At District and Divisional Secretariats
- Online via www.immigration.gov.lk
Children’s Passports
- Children can no longer be included in a parent’s passport.
- A separate passport must be obtained for every child, regardless of age.
How to Submit a Digital Photograph
- Visit any Authorized Photo Studio (list available on the Immigration website and local offices).
- The studio will:
- Take your photo according to ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.
- Submit it online to the Department.
- Issue a Studio Acknowledgement Note (this must be submitted with your application).
- Photographs must have been taken within the last 6 months.
Printed photographs are not accepted.
Fingerprint Collection
Who Must Provide Fingerprints:
- All applicants aged 16 to 60
- Fingerprints are collected at the Head Office in Battaramulla or at Regional Offices in:
- Kandy
- Matara
- Vavuniya
- Kurunegala
Children under 16 and applicants over 60 are exempt.
Passport Validity Period
| Applicant Category | Validity |
|---|---|
| Adults (N Series Passport) | 10 years |
| Children (under 16 years) | 3 or 10 years (as per parent’s request) |
| Emergency Certificate | 2 years (extendable by 2 years) |
Working Hours for Passport Applications
| Application Type | Submission Time |
|---|---|
| Normal Service | 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| One-Day Urgent Service | 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Online Counter | 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
Closed on weekends and holidays.
Where to Submit Your Application
All applicants must submit their passport forms in person at the:
Passport Division
Level 01 (Normal Service) or Level 02 (Urgent Service)
Department of Immigration and Emigration,
“Suhurupaya”, Battaramulla.
Types of Passports & Travel Documents
| Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Passport | Regular international travel |
| Diplomatic Passport | For diplomatic officials |
| Official Passport | Government officials on duty |
| Emergency Certificate | For urgent travel to India/Nepal |
| ICOM / NMRP | One-way urgent travel (issued abroad) |
Special Note for Finland Visa Applicants (Name Alterations)
Because of new rules from the Government of Finland:
- Visa and residence applications will NOT be accepted with Sri Lankan passports that have different names on page 2.
- If you have one of these passports, you need to get a new one with the right information.
- We can only take passports that have the name printed on page 2 because there isn’t enough space.
Am I Eligible for a Sri Lankan Passport?
Yes, if you are:
- A Sri Lankan citizen by descent, or
- A Sri Lankan citizen by registration
Urgent Passport Issuance (One-Day Service)
Need a passport urgently? You can apply for One-Day Service at the Head Office in Battaramulla. This service ensures your passport is ready within a working day.
How to Get a Passport Appointment
To get a passport, you must first book an appointment. Here’s how:
- Visit the appointment booking site:eservices.immigration.gov.lk/MakeAppointments
- Click on “Register”. Fill in all the details required.
- Enter the OTP number that you get via immigration.
- Choose “Urgent Service” or “Normal Servise”.
- Choose a regional office (Colombo, Kandy, Matara, Vavuniya)
- Enter your NIC number and personal details
- Pick a convenient date and time
- Confirm your booking and take the confirmation slip print-out.
Tip: Go to the Passport Office well in time, at least half and hour before, with all the required papers.
Step by step guide on how to get a passport online (2025)
Sri Lankans may initiate the process of acquisition of passport online:
Full Guidelines: Download PDF
- Go to: eservices.immigration.gov.lk/onlinetd/OnlineTD
- If you apply from overseas then click “Applicant Residing Overseas”. If you are apply from Sri Lanka “Applicant Residing in Sri Lanka”. Click on “Apply Passport”
- Fill in your personal details (Name, NIC, DOB, address).
- Upload a scanned photograph and digital signature (if required)
- Choose an appointment date and centre.
- You can pay the fee online or opt to pay at the centre.
- Visit the selected office with originals of required documents
Passport Application Process Overview
There are two main types of passport applications:
- Normal Service – Processed in 14 working days
- One-Day Service – Issued within 1 working day
Required Documents:
- National Identity Card (NIC)
- Original Birth Certificate
- Previous Passport (for renewal)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photograph (if not uploaded online)
Passport Fees in Sri Lanka (2025)
| Service Type | Fee (LKR) |
|---|---|
| Normal (14 working days) | Rs. 3,500 |
| One-day Service | Rs. 20,000 |
| Lost or damaged passport | Rs. 20,000 – Rs. 25,000 |
Prices may vary slightly depending on the service centre and payment method.
What can i do if my passport stolen or lost
You need to report your Sri Lankan passport stolen or lost and get a new one right away. Follow these steps:
1. Report the Loss Immediately
- In Sri Lanka:
Report the loss to the nearest police station and obtain a police report or loss complaint reference number. - If abroad:
Tell the nearest Sri Lankan consulate or embassy about it. They can help you get a new passport or an emergency travel document.
2. Prepare Required Documents
To get a new passport, you will need to:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Duly filled Passport Application Form (K 35A) | Available at the Department or online |
| Police report | For local applicants: certified police complaint of the loss |
| Affidavit | Explaining how the passport was lost |
| NIC (original and copy) | National Identity Card |
| Birth Certificate | Original and copy |
| Marriage Certificate | If name changed after marriage |
| Studio Acknowledgement Note | From authorized photo studio for digital photograph |
| Fingerprints | Captured at the Head Office or Regional Offices (if aged 16–60) |
3. Submit the Application
Go in person to the:
Department of Immigration and Emigration, Suhurupaya, Battaramulla
Or any regional office (Matara, Kandy, Kurunegala, or Vavuniya)
You must be present in person, especially for fingerprint collection.
4. Pay the Fees
Passport replacement fees may vary depending on urgency:
| Service Type | Fee (LKR) |
|---|---|
| Normal | LKR 5,000 – 7,500 (approx.) |
| Urgent/One-day | LKR 20,000 (approx.) |
Always check the current fee when you apply.
5. If You’re Abroad—Emergency Travel
If you lose your passport while you’re away:
- Get in touch with the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate closest to you.
- They may issue:
- A Temporary Travel Document (Emergency Certificate) to return to Sri Lanka
- Or assist you in applying for a new passport from abroad
Contact for Help
- Hotline: 1962
- Phone: +94 112 101 500
- Website: www.immigration.gov.lk
Pro Tip:
When you receive your new passport, you may consider registering the SMS alerts to keep you abreast with information about it. Additionally, to avert a situation in which you are left without a passport, you ought to leave a digital copy or a photocopy of your passport in a secure location separate to the actual one.
Sri Lanka Visa Guide – Types, Application Process, Dual Visa & Documents (2025)
The Sri Lankan country has a visa regime which people of other nations find easy to visit, conduct business, transit, work or reside in there. Whatever kind of a visa you need to have, it must be a tourist, an investor, a student or a long-term stay; it is important to know what types exist, and how to obtain one.
What Is a Visa?
The purpose of a visa is to allow one to enter, stay in or even leave Sri Lanka within a specific period of time and based on a defined purpose. All those who would like to visit Sri Lanka should possess valid visa before and or upon arrival except nationals that do not require a visa.
Types of Visas in Sri Lanka
There are four main types of visas for Sri Lanka, each one designed for a different type of travel:
1. Visit Visa
For short stays, which can last up to 30 days and be extended up to 180 days
- Tourist Visa: For vacation, sightseeing, and fun.
- Business Visa: For going to meetings, conferences, or other business-related events (not for work).
2. Transit Visa
- Valid for up to 2 days.
- Issued to travelers transiting through Sri Lanka to another destination.
- Free of charge and issued upon request.
3. Residence Visa
For foreigners who want to live in Sri Lanka for a long time in certain categories:
| Residence Category | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Employment Visa | Foreigners employed by Sri Lankan companies |
| Investor Visa | Investors registered with BOI or other authorities |
| Student Visa | Foreign students enrolled in Sri Lankan institutions |
| Religious Visa | Missionaries and religious workers |
| Family Visa | Spouses or dependents of Sri Lankan citizens |
| Retiree Visa | For foreigners over 55 years with fixed income |
| Expatriates / Volunteers | With approval from relevant Sri Lankan authorities |
4. Dual Citizenship Visa
People who have dual citizenship (Sri Lanka and another country) don’t need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. They need to have the Dual Citizenship Certificate with them and show it when they arrive.
Dual Citizenship Visa – What to Know
Who Qualifies?
Sri Lankans who have become citizens of another country and want to keep or get back their Sri Lankan citizenship.
Benefits:
- You don’t need a visa to enter Sri Lanka.
- Buy land, work, or live in Sri Lanka permanently.
- Travel freely without consular complications.
Application:
Apply through the Department of Immigration & Emigration with:
- Original Birth Certificate
- Current foreign passport
- Sri Lankan passport (if available)
- Dual Citizenship Application Form
- Proof of current citizenship
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Processing fee applies. Approval is subject to background checks and eligibility.
How to Apply for a Visa to Sri Lanka
Tourist or Business Visa (Short-Stay)
Apply online via the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system:
- Visit www.eta.gov.lk
- Choose visa type: Tourist / Business
- Fill the online form
- Pay fee using a credit/debit card
- Receive confirmation via email within 24–48 hours
ETA is valid for 30 days and can be extended up to 180 days after arrival.
Documents Required for Tourist/Business ETA
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Return air ticket
- Proof of funds (bank statement or hotel booking)
- Email address and card for payment
Residence Visa Application (Long-Term Stay)
- Download the relevant visa application form from www.immigration.gov.lk
- Prepare required documents (see below)
- Submit in person at the Department of Immigration & Emigration – Head Office, Battaramulla
Documents Required for Residence Visa (General Checklist)
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | With minimum 6 months validity |
| Completed Application Form | Specific to visa category |
| Recent Passport-Sized Photos | Conforming to ICAO standards |
| Birth Certificate / Marriage Certificate | If applicable |
| Invitation Letter / Employment Contract | Based on visa type |
| Police Clearance Certificate | From home country |
| Medical Certificate | Depending on visa type |
| Recommendation / Approval Letter | From line ministries or BOI |
| Proof of Financial Stability | Bank statements, income proof |
Note: Requirements vary by visa category. Always check latest guidelines.
Visa Fees (as of 2025 – subject to change)
| Visa Type | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tourist (ETA) – Single Entry | $50 |
| Tourist (ETA) – Double Entry | $60 |
| Business (ETA) | $60 |
| Residence Visa | Varies by category (approx. $150 – $500) |
| Visa Extension | Based on visa type (inquire locally) |
Visa Processing Time
- ETA: 24–48 hours
- Residence Visa: 1 to 4 weeks (depending on approval from relevant authorities)
Visa Extension in Sri Lanka
Yes, short-term tourist and business visas can be extended up to 180 days.
To apply:
- Visit the Visa Division of the Department in Battaramulla
- Bring original passport, ETA approval, and a completed extension form
- Pay the extension fee
Tips
- Always verify visa requirements before traveling to Sri Lanka.
- Don’t overstay your visa – fines and deportation may apply.
- Save a digital and physical copy of your visa and passport.
- Dual citizens should carry their certificate and both passports when traveling.
Documents Needed for Passport Renewal
Renewing your passport? You’ll need the following:
- Old/expired passport
- National Identity Card
- Original Birth Certificate
- Marriage certificate (if name changed)
- Passport-size color photo (if not uploaded online)
Appointments are mandatory for renewals too.
Can I Extend My Visa in Sri Lanka?
Yes, you can extend your visa online or by visiting the Visa Division in Colombo.
Steps to Extend Visa Online:
- Go to: www.immigration.gov.lk
- Select “Visa Extension”
- If you have an account, then sing up. If you don’t have an account, then register first.
- Fill out the application form
- Upload required documents (passport, visa copy, photo)
- Pay the applicable fee online
- Await approval by email or SMS
Tourist visas can generally be extended up to 180 days (in 90-day increments).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to get a passport with no birth certificate?
No. Birth certificate is required unless the controller grants any application based on a special reason.
2. Have you got to have a NIC to get a passport?
Yes, you have to show who you are.
3. Is it just come in?
No. Getting a passport or a visa will be an appointment that will be required in 2025.
4. What is the validity of a Sri Lanka passport?
It normally remains valid after ten years since it was issued.
5. Do you have an online check-up of my passport?
Yes. Visit the link eservices.immigration.gov.lk to follow the status of your application.
6. Can non-citizens request extension of visas online?
Yes, thanks to the system of e-visas. Interviews though may be necessary in some cases.
Final Thoughts
eServices system has made the Department of Immigration and Emigration easily accessible. Passport application, extension, or replacement are easy to do it online.
It is recommended to have your paper work ready and use the official site to avoid scams or bad guidance. Review the prices and the rules annually since they can vary.
