Student Visa
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 6-12 weeks
- Fee
- Rs. 20,000 per year (standard) or Rs. 10,000 per year (government universities)
- Validity
- Duration of course (renewable annually)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For foreign students pursuing regular, full-time academic study at a recognized institution in Sri Lanka. Cannot enter on tourist or business visa - student visa must be obtained before travel. Change of visa types NOT permitted after arrival. Students under 16 can apply for parent/guardian visa to accompany them. Lower fee applies for government university students.
Eligibility
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Purpose of visit
For pursuing regular, full-time academic study at a recognized educational institution in Sri Lanka.
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Financial
Must demonstrate adequate funds for tuition fees, living expenses, and return passage for duration of study.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for course fees and living expenses
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor letters; Minimum amount: Adequate funds for tuition, living expenses, and return passage
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Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
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Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
How to apply
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Document gathering
First contact education provider and obtain admission to study program. Gather passport, admission letter, transcripts, and proof of funds.
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Document submission
Educational institution applies to Department of Immigration for entry visa approval on behalf of student.
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Processing wait
Wait for Department of Immigration to process application and notify nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission. Processing takes 6-12 weeks.
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Fee payment
Pay student visa fee: Rs. 20,000 per year for standard institutions or Rs. 10,000 per year for government universities.
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Visa collection
Collect entry visa endorsed on passport from the diplomatic mission.