Student visa, valid for the entire length of education, is issued to foreign students entering Sri Lanka to continue the course of regular and full-time academic studies at a specified educational institution. Students under the age of 16 can apply for a visa for parents/guardians to stay in the country.

Students must have an entry visa before traveling to Sri Lanka. Entry visa approval for students is processed by the Immigration Department in the City of Colombo. Sri Lankan diplomatic missions do not issue entry visas for students unless the entry visa has been pre-approved by the Immigration Department in Colombo.

What are the requirements for obtaining a student visa?

Any foreign citizen who intends to enter Sri Lanka for the purpose of study must:

• Obtain a Sri Lanka visa (if applicable) to facilitate their entry into the country;

• Enter Sri Lanka from and through authorized points of entry only;

• Present a valid passport to the immigration officer at the point of entry;

• Declare the purpose of entry to Sri Lanka and the intended institution of study;

• Proceed to the designated immigration office upon entry and obtain a student card to study in Sri Lanka.

What must be provided to obtain a student visa in Sri Lanka?

• An acceptance letter, which confirms that the applicant has been offered a full-time place at the specified educational institution;

• Applicants must be able to demonstrate proof of having sufficient funds to support themselves in the country;

• It is necessary to confirm that the cost of the course has been paid in full;

• It is necessary to take out private health insurance and provide documentary evidence of this;

• The applicant must have a clear intention to return to their country after the study period;

• All immigrants in Sri Lanka must respect and comply with national immigration laws, instructions and formalities.

How much does a student visa cost?

When you apply for a visa to Sri Lanka, you will need to pay a processing fee for your application.

Prices for a visa to Sri Lanka are as follows:

• One entry visa – 30 dollars.

• Multiple entry visa – 60 dollars.

What is the validity period of a student visa?

The validity period of the visa will depend on the duration of the course.

A maximum of three entries to Sri Lanka per year may be granted for a multiple-entry student visa.