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Moving To Sri Lanka

Our reliable international moving services make relocating to Sri Lanka effortless. Start your move to Sri Lanka with a free moving quote today.

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Compass Relocation

Comprehensive Guide on Relocating to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a welcoming community. Whether you're relocating for work, retirement, or adventure, moving to Sri Lanka presents an opportunity to experience its tropical climate, affordable living, and growing economy. With proper planning and guidance, settling in this vibrant country can be a seamless experience.

Sri Lanka Customs Regulations

To ensure a smooth relocation process to Sri Lanka, please download and review the official customs guideline form. This document outlines the required paperwork, restrictions, and specific import rules for personal belongings, vehicles, and pets.

Download Sri Lanka Customs Form

What We Move to Sri Lanka

🏠 Apartment & Home Relocation

Professional packing, transportation, and setup for a stress-free move.

🏢 Office Relocation Services

Expand your business with smooth and efficient office moving services.

🐾 Pet Relocation Services

Safe, reliable transport for your beloved pets with proper planning and care.

🎹 Specialty Moves: Pianos & Fragile Items

Professional handling of fragile and valuable items to ensure safe delivery.

Benefits of Relocating to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers a unique mix of tropical beauty, rich culture, and affordable living, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees. With its welcoming communities and growing economy, relocating to Sri Lanka provides numerous advantages.

Movers and Packers in Sri Lanka
  • Cost of Living – Affordable housing, food, and healthcare.

  • Scenic Lifestyle – Beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and historic sites.

  • Business & Work – Growing industries with opportunities for expats.

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Compass Relocation

How to Move to Sri Lanka?

Relocating to Sri Lanka involves several key steps:

  • Choose the Right Visa – Depending on your purpose of stay, apply for a work visa, business visa, student visa, or retirement visa.

  • Secure Employment or Admission – If moving for work or study, secure a job offer or university admission before applying for your visa.

  • Prepare Required Documents – Gather documents such as a valid passport, proof of employment or admission, financial statements, and health insurance.

  • Find Accommodation – Research housing options in advance; popular choices include apartments, villas, and guesthouses, depending on your budget.

  • Plan Your Relocation – Arrange for international movers to handle the shipment of your belongings and ensure a smooth transition.

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We Provide International Moving Services To & From Sri Lanka

Compass Relocations ensures smooth, secure, and on-time moves between Sri Lanka and key international destinations:

📍 Dubai, UAE
📍 Kuwait
📍 Oman
📍 India
📍 Saudi Arabia
📍 Bahrain

📍 Qatar

📍 Lebanon

📍 Pakistan

📍 Indonesia

📍 Hong Kong

📍 Philippines

📍 Japan

📍 China

📍 Singapore

📍 Vietnam

📍 Thailand

Compass Relocation

Visa Requirements for Moving to Sri Lanka

Thailand offers various visa options based on the purpose and duration of stay.

Type of Visa
Description
Business Visa
For foreign entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish businesses.
Residence Visa
Available for investors, retirees, and expatriates with long-term plans.
Student Visa
Required for international students enrolled in Sri Lankan educational institutions.
Work Visa
Issued to expatriates employed by Sri Lankan companies.
Tourist Visa
For short-term visits, extendable for up to 180 days.

Application Process for a Visa in Sri Lanka

Our visa consultants simplify the process, ensuring a hassle-free experience for expats moving to Sri Lanka.

These are some common documents that are required while filing for a Visa. However, different types of visas have some special requirements. You can contact our experts and visa consultants to discuss these requirements in detail.

Completed visa application form

Valid passport (with at least six months of validity)

Employment contract or university admission letter (for work/study visas)

Financial proof to support your stay

Medical certificate and health insurance

Business registration documents (for entrepreneurs)

Compass Relocation

Cost of Moving to Sri Lanka

Relocation costs vary based on factors like shipping size, transportation mode, and personal expenses.

Expense
Estimated Cost (USD)
Health Insurance
$500 - $2,000 per year
Utilities
$30 - $80 per month
Transportation
$20 - $50 per month
Food & Groceries
$150 - $300 per month
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)
$200 - $600 per month
Compass Relocation

Housing in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers diverse accommodation options, from city apartments to beachside villas:

  • Colombo & Kandy – Ideal for professionals and expats, offering modern apartments and access to amenities.

  • Galle & Mirissa – Popular for coastal living, with scenic beachfront properties.

  • Nuwara Eliya – Perfect for those who prefer cooler climates and a peaceful lifestyle.

Expats typically rent apartments or houses in gated communities, with rental costs varying by location and amenities.

Relocating to Sri Lanka

Jobs, Healthcare, and Lifestyle

Taxation in Sri Lanka

✔ Personal Income Tax – Progressive rates from 6% to 24% based on income.

✔ Corporate Tax – Standard 24%, with incentives for certain industries.

✔ Value-Added Tax (VAT) – Applied at 15% on goods and services.

Healthcare System in Sri Lanka

✔ Public Healthcare – Free or low-cost services, but may have long wait times.
✔ Private Healthcare – Faster access to treatments, preferred by expats for English-speaking medical staff and better facilities.

✔ Health Insurance – Expats are advised to have comprehensive international health insurance for private healthcare coverage.

Education in Sri Lanka

✔ Public Schools – Free education but limited English instruction.
✔ Private & International Schools – Offer globally recognized curriculums like IB, British, and American systems.
✔ Higher Education – Universities specialize in technology, business, and medicine, with some courses in English.

Job Market in Sri Lanka

✔ Growing Industries – IT, finance, tourism, healthcare, and manufacturing.
✔ Foreign Investment – Business-friendly policies encourage expatriate professionals.​

✔ Job Search – Expats find jobs through online portals, recruitment agencies, and networking.

Relocating to Sri Lanka

Best Places to Live in Sri Lanka for Expats

Sri Lanka offers a variety of cities that cater to different lifestyles, from bustling urban centers to serene coastal towns.

Colombo, the capital, is the commercial hub with modern amenities and job opportunities. Kandy provides a cooler climate and a rich cultural heritage, ideal for a peaceful life.

For those seeking a beachside retreat, Galle and Negombo offer stunning coastlines and a relaxed atmosphere.

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📍 Colombo

📍 Galle

📍 Kandy

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Moving to Sri Lanka

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

  • Yes, Compass Relocations will help you to relocate to Sri Lanka successfully. ISS has a specialized team to assist clients with all their relocation needs and requirements. Be sure to connect with the team today to learn more.

  • Yes, you can apply for a visa on your own. The website has all the details that you need to know. It also contains information about the documents that you will need while applying for a visa to Sri Lanka.

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