Get Your Sri Lanka Dual Citizenship — Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Individuals born in Sri Lanka to at least one Sri Lankan parent are typically granted citizenship automatically.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to Sri Lankan parents can acquire citizenship if registered with the Sri Lankan diplomatic mission within one year of birth.
- By Marriage: Foreign spouses of Sri Lankan citizens may apply for citizenship after at least 7 years of residence and marriage.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners who have resided in Sri Lanka for at least 5 years and meet integration requirements may apply for naturalization.
- By Re-Acquisition: Former Sri Lankan citizens who became citizens of another country may apply to re-acquire Sri Lankan citizenship and hold dual status with approval from the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed (with Approval): Dual citizenship is permitted for eligible individuals who re-apply and are approved by Sri Lankan authorities.
Step-by-Step Process
- Identify your eligibility path: descent, marriage, naturalization, or re-acquisition.
- Submit your application to the Department of Immigration and Emigration or a Sri Lankan embassy.
- Provide birth certificates, proof of descent or marriage, and evidence of residency or prior citizenship.
- Pay the relevant application fee and attend an interview or take an oath, if required.
- Receive confirmation of citizenship or dual citizenship status.
Benefits of Sri Lankan Citizenship
- Live, work, and own property in Sri Lanka
- Access public healthcare and education
- Obtain a Sri Lankan passport
- Pass citizenship to children born abroad
- Reclaim citizenship while retaining your other nationality (if approved)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Sri Lanka allow dual citizenship?
Yes, but only if you re-acquire it through a formal application process. Former citizens must apply for dual citizenship approval from Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration.
Can I inherit citizenship through my parents?
Yes. Children born abroad to Sri Lankan parents are eligible for citizenship if their birth is registered with a Sri Lankan diplomatic mission within one year.
Can I become a citizen through marriage?
Yes, but not automatically. A foreign spouse must live in Sri Lanka and remain married for at least 7 years before applying for naturalization.
Can I re-acquire Sri Lankan citizenship if I became a citizen elsewhere?
Yes. Former Sri Lankan citizens can apply for dual citizenship by submitting proof of their previous status, current citizenship, and ties to Sri Lanka.
Do dual citizens pay taxes in both countries?
Sri Lanka taxes residents on global income and non-residents on Sri Lanka-sourced income. Check for tax treaties and consult with a tax advisor based on your residency status.