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Residence & citizenship

Sri Lankan Sri Lankan Citizenship

Sri Lankan citizenship by descent and registration, plus the special statutory provisions for particular resident populations, administered under the Citizenship Act.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

There is no general naturalisation-by-long-residence route confirmed here for foreign nationals with no Sri Lankan/statutory link; eligibility, fees and any residence periods should be verified directly with the Citizenship Division.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Sri Lanka government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Citizenship of Sri Lanka
Route type
Citizenship (descent, registration, special provisions)
Legal basis
Citizenship Act No. 18 of 1948 and related special Acts
Administered by
Citizenship Division, Department of Immigration and Emigration

Who it is for

  • Children of Sri Lankan citizens (including those born overseas, via registration)
  • Persons of Indian origin eligible under the 1988 and 2003 Acts
  • Persons of Chinese origin eligible under the 2008 Act
  • Certain long-settled residents under earlier legislation

What the Citizenship Division handles

  • Overseas birth registration of children of citizens
  • Special-provision citizenship for the eligible populations
  • Renunciation of citizenship
  • Dual-citizenship applications

How to apply

  • Identify the correct citizenship route for your circumstances
  • Prepare certified supporting documents (birth, marriage, parentage)
  • Apply to the Citizenship Division of the Department

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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