Student Residence Visa in Sri Lanka in 2026

Sri Lanka's Education Category residence visa covers university students, students at government-approved educational institutions, volunteers and internship holders.

Sponsoring evidence

University students require a recommendation from the Ministry of Higher Education and a university letter. Other students use the institution's request plus the relevant recommendation; the Department currently lists bank-encashment evidence of USD 1,500 for a year per person for certain non-university student cases.

Duration

The official page states the residence visa is generally valid for one year or the period recommended by the line ministry or academic institution, and can be renewed.

Study residence does not automatically authorize unrelated employment. See the Sri Lanka immigration hub and student visas.

Official rules can change. Check the cited authority before acting and use the legal disclaimer.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Sri Lanka