The Colombo Port City Investor Visa is a long-term residence visa for foreign investors who make substantial financial commitments within the Colombo Port City special economic zone. Established under the Colombo Port City Economic Commission (CPCEC) Act of 2021, the program is administered jointly by the CPCEC and the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Investors benefit from a preferential "green channel" processing system and access to the zone's special tax regime, making it distinct from Sri Lanka's other investor visa programs. The minimum investment is USD 100,000 for a 5-year visa or USD 200,000 for a 10-year visa, with an annual fee of just USD 200 per person.
The visa is available in two tiers: 5 years with a minimum USD 100,000 investment, or 10 years with a minimum USD 200,000 investment. Both options are renewable. The annual visa fee is USD 200 per person.
Spouse and children are eligible for dependent visas under the same program. The spouse may apply for a separate employment visa to work within Port City. All dependants must meet the same health screening requirements and maintain healthcare plans. The USD 200 annual fee applies per person, including dependants.
Colombo Port City operates under a special tax regime established by the CPCEC Act, which includes potential tax exemptions for businesses and investors within the zone. Visa holders must comply with both Sri Lankan tax laws and Port City-specific regulations.
The application process involves six steps:
Fee: USD 200 per year per person
Processing time: Applications move through the CPCEC's preferential green channel. Under the accelerated investment facilitation program, investor registration as an Authorised Person can be completed within 7 days and visas approved within 5 working days, subject to due diligence.
Investments must be directed specifically within the Colombo Port City zone to qualify. The Port City is a 269-hectare reclaimed land development adjacent to Colombo's central business district, governed by its own regulatory framework. Sri Lanka does not offer permanent residency, and there is no direct pathway to citizenship through this program. Standard overstay penalties apply: USD 250 for 7-14 days and USD 500 for overstays exceeding 14 days.