FAQ'S
Immigration and Emigration
Sri Lanka has a significant history of both immigration and emigration.
Emigration: Sri Lankans have historically emigrated for various reasons, including economic opportunities, political instability, and educational pursuits. Major destinations for Sri Lankan emigrants include the Middle East (particularly the Gulf countries), the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the United States.
Immigration: While Sri Lanka has historically been a source country for emigration, it also experiences some immigration. This includes individuals seeking employment, refugees, and those with family ties to the country.
Key Factors Influencing Emigration:
Economic Factors: Sri Lanka has faced economic challenges, including high unemployment, inflation, and poverty.
These factors push many Sri Lankans to seek better economic opportunities abroad.
Political Instability: Sri Lanka has experienced periods of political unrest and civil conflict, which have driven many to seek refuge in other countries.
Education and Employment: Many Sri Lankans seek higher education and better employment prospects abroad.
Impact of Emigration:
Brain Drain: The emigration of skilled professionals, such as doctors, engineers, and teachers, can negatively impact Sri Lanka’s development.
Remittances: Remittances sent by Sri Lankan emigrants are a significant source of foreign exchange for the country, contributing to the economy.
Social and Cultural Impacts: Emigration can lead to social and cultural changes within Sri Lankan society, such as changes in family structures and values.
Government Policies:
The Sri Lankan government has implemented various policies to address the challenges of emigration, including:
Skills Development Programs: To enhance the employability of Sri Lankans within the country.
Investment in Education: To improve the quality of education and attract skilled professionals back to Sri Lanka.
Policies to Encourage Remittances: To maximize the economic benefits of remittances.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered professional advice on immigration or emigration matters.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information, please refer to the official website of the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka.
Best period to visit Sri Lanka
The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on what you’re looking for:
For the best weather (dry season):
December to March: This is the peak tourist season with the least rainfall and the most sunshine across most of the country. However, expect higher prices and larger crowds.
For fewer crowds and lower prices (shoulder seasons):
April-May & September-November: These shoulder seasons offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists. You might encounter some rain, but it’s usually short-lived.
For surfing:
April to September: This is the best time for surfing on the south coast.
For the east coast:
May to September: This period offers the best weather on the east coast, with less rain and more sunshine.
Keep in mind:
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons: the Yala monsoon (southwest monsoon) from April to September, and the Maha monsoon (northeast monsoon) from October to January.
The weather can vary significantly depending on the region.
No matter when you choose to visit, Sri Lanka offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
We recommend checking the specific weather forecasts and travel advisories for your planned travel dates.
About Visa
Key Information:
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Most tourists and business travelers to Sri Lanka can obtain an ETA online.
Application Process: The website provides detailed instructions on how to apply for an ETA, including required documents and fees.
Visa Types: Different types of visas may be available depending on your purpose of travel (tourism, business, etc.).
I recommend visiting the official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa requirements.
National Holidays
Sri Lanka has a diverse range of national holidays, reflecting the country’s cultural and religious tapestry. Here are some of the key national holidays in Sri Lanka:
Religious Holidays:
Poya Days: These occur on every full moon day of the Buddhist calendar and are observed as religious holidays.
Vesak: A significant Buddhist holiday celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.Deepavali: The Hindu festival of lights.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Muslim festivals.
Christmas Day: Celebrated by the Christian community.
National Holidays:
Independence Day: Celebrates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule.
Sinhala and Tamil New Year: A joyous festival marking the beginning of the new year according to the Sinhalese and Tamil calendars.
Other Holidays
May Day: International Workers’ Day.
Please Note: The specific dates of some holidays, particularly religious ones, may vary slightly each year based on the lunar calendar.
Travel Insuarance
Travel insurance is a type of insurance that covers you for unexpected events that may occur during your trip.
Common coverages:
Medical Expenses: Covers costs associated with unexpected illnesses, injuries, and medical emergencies while traveling. This can include hospitalization, doctor visits, and prescription medications.
Emergency Medical Evacuation: In case of a serious illness or injury, this covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest appropriate medical facility or back to your home country.
Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Covers unexpected events that force you to cancel or cut short your trip (e.g., illness, natural disasters, family emergencies).
Baggage Loss/Delay: Provides compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage.
Personal Accident: Covers accidental death or dismemberment.
Travel Delay: Covers expenses incurred due to flight delays or cancellations.
Where to Find Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka:
SriLankan Airlines: Offers travel insurance specifically for their passengers. Check their website (srilankan.com) for details and coverage options.
Fairfirst Insurance Sri Lanka: A well-known insurer in Sri Lanka with travel insurance products. Visit their website (fairfirst.lk) for more information.
Sri Lanka Insurance: Provides travel insurance coverage, including options like “Travel Protect.” Check their website for details.
Standard Chartered Bank (Sri Lanka): Offers travel insurance as a benefit for credit card holders.
Other International Insurers: Many international travel insurance providers offer coverage for trips to Sri Lanka. Research options from companies like World Nomads, Allianz Travel Insurance.
Do i need Vaccination
For most short-term travelers to Sri Lanka, the recommended vaccinations include:
Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Ensure you are up-to-date on these vaccinations.
Travel-specific vaccinations:
Typhoid: Recommended due to the risk of food and waterborne illness.
Hepatitis A: Also recommended due to the risk of food and waterborne illness.
Other vaccinations to consider:
Hepatitis B: Recommended for long-term travelers or those with high-risk exposures.
Rabies: Recommended for travelers who may have close contact with animals.
Japanese Encephalitis: Recommended for travelers spending extended time in rural areas, especially during the monsoon season.
Important Notes:
Consult a travel health specialist: It’s crucial to consult a travel health specialist or doctor well in advance of your trip. They can assess your individual risk factors and recommend the most appropriate vaccinations for you.
Travel advisories: Check the latest travel advisories from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for any specific health warnings or recommendations for Sri Lanka.
Mobile phone facilities
Sri Lanka has a well-developed mobile phone network with good coverage in most areas, including urban and rural regions.
Network Operators:
Dialog Axiata: One of the leading operators with extensive 4G and 3G coverage.Mobitel: Another major player with a strong network presence.Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT): Offers both mobile and fixed-line services.
Coverage:
4G/LTE: Widely available in major cities and towns. Coverage is expanding rapidly in rural areas.
3G: Available in most parts of the country.
2G: Available in most areas, although 4G/3G is more common.
SIM Cards:
Easily available from operator stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores.
Pre-paid SIM cards are readily available and a popular option for tourists.You may need to present your passport or other identification to purchase a SIM card.
Data Usage:
Data plans are available to suit various budgets and usage needs.4G speeds are generally good, allowing for browsing, streaming, and social media use.
Wi-Fi:
Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and other public places, especially in tourist areas.
Tips for Using Your Mobile Phone in Sri Lanka:
Check with your home carrier: Inquire about international roaming charges and any applicable data plans.
Consider a local SIM card: Purchasing a local SIM card can be more cost-effective than using international roaming, especially for longer stays.Be mindful of data usage: Monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected charges.
Ensure your phone is unlocked: If you have a locked phone, ensure it is unlocked before traveling to Sri Lanka.
Overall, you should have no problem using your mobile phone in Sri Lanka. With the availability of 4G networks and readily available SIM cards, staying connected during your trip should be straightforward.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may be subject to change. Always check with your mobile phone carrier and local operators for the latest information and updates.
Emergency Numbers
TOURISM HOT-LINE 1912
Duty Free
You can find duty-free shops at both the arrival and departure terminals at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Sri Lanka.
What to expect:
Wide variety of goods: Expect to find a wide range of products,
Liquor and wine: A good selection of international brands.
Perfumes and cosmetics: Popular brands at competitive prices.Cigarettes and tobacco products: Available for purchase.
Electronics: Some electronics and gadgets may be available.
Local handicrafts and souvenirs: A good place to pick up some unique Sri Lankan gifts.
Food and beverages: A selection of snacks, chocolates, and beverages.
Duty-free allowances:
For Sri Lankan residents: Allowances vary depending on the duration of your stay abroad.For foreign visitors: You are generally allowed to bring in a limited amount of liquor and cigarettes duty-free.
Where to find information:
Airport website: The official website of Bandaranaike International Airport (airport.lk) may have more details about duty-free shops and their offerings.
Please Note: Duty-free allowances and regulations are subject to change. It’s always best to check the latest information with Sri Lankan Customs or the airport authorities before your trip.
Goods prohibited
Narcotics: Drugs like marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and other illegal substances.Pornography: Obscene materials, including printed matter, images, and videos.
Firearms of any kind (unless you have the necessary permits).
Ammunition for firearms.
Explosives and other dangerous weapons.
Certain Animal Products:
Products made from endangered species (ivory, tiger skins, etc.).
Some animal parts may be restricted.
Counterfeit Goods:
Counterfeit money, documents, and branded goods.
Restricted Plants and Seeds:
Some plants and seeds may require special permits for importation.
Important Notes:
This is not an exhaustive list. Customs regulations can change.
It’s crucial to check with the Sri Lankan Customs authorities for the most up-to-date information on prohibited and restricted goods.
This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice.