Complete visa guide for Sri Lankan passport holders — requirements, documents, fees, and application process
Covers tourism, family visits, business and transit stays of up to 90 days — this nationality must obtain a visa before travelling.
Study, work, family reunification, permanent residence and other stays longer than 90 days. These always require a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and a visa, regardless of visa-free status for tourism.
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Consular visa fee — single entry | ~LKR 9,000 | Paid at VFS in LKR at the embassy rate; 5× worldwide increase from 1 Jul 2026 — confirm the posted local rate |
| Consular visa fee — multiple entry | ~LKR 18,000 | |
| VFS Global service charge | ~LKR 3,000 | Per application, non-refundable |
| Courier / SMS (optional) | LKR 500–1,500 | Add-ons, priced per service |
File at VFS Global Colombo. Typical documents: valid passport (2 blank pages, 6 months validity), MOFA visa form with 4.5×4.5 cm photo, confirmed round-trip flight, hotel bookings for the full stay, last 3 months of bank statements, employment letter or student ID, and a cover letter. Book the appointment online, submit in person, and collect in 5–7 working days. Visa stamp is valid 3 months from issue; max 90-day stay per entry.
For study, Technical Intern Training (技能実習), Specified Skilled Worker (特定技能), or Engineer/Humanities/International Services (技術・人文知識・国際業務), the Japanese-side sponsor (school, supervising organization, or registered employer) files a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan first (typically 1–3 months). The applicant converts the COE to a visa at VFS Colombo in 5–7 working days.
Sri Lanka is one of Japan's SSW and TITP partner countries. The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) oversees outbound placement. TITP candidates enter for up to 5 years on the training program; SSW candidates pass a sector-specific skill test + JLPT N4 (or JFT-Basic A2) and work for a registered employer. Both convert via VFS Colombo after COE issuance.
Our expert consultants can guide you through the entire application process.
