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Permanent Residency (PR) in Colombo, Sri Lanka, allows foreign nationals to live and work indefinitely within the country without the constraints faced by short term visas. Its law is governed by the Immigration and Emigration Act in conjunction with international treaties. To obtain PR, you must have stayed within the country for a particular number of years, typically five years. There are exceptions for investors, persons of Sri Lankan origin, and persons of Indian origin, among others.
Securing PR can be a complex and challenging process, requiring thorough knowledge of the immigration law, paperwork, and procedures. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, assemble the necessary documentation, and represent you during interactions with immigration officials. If you are an investor, a lawyer can help you meet the PR qualifications. If you're facing deportation, a lawyer can help you leverage resident rights to defend your stay.
In order to acquire PR in Sri Lanka, there are several laws and regulations set in place that you must adhere to. The main requirement is having legally resided in Sri Lanka for at least five years prior to the date of application for PR. For individuals of Sri Lankan origin, or if you are married to a Sri Lankan, the residency duration may vary. It is also common that applicants have to present proof of financial stability, pass a few medical tests, and at times, demonstrate proficiency in one of the local languages.
Eligibility is often based on several conditions such as the length of residence, being of Sri Lankan origin, an investor, a professional who can contribute to the Sri Lankan economy, or being married to a citizen of Sri Lanka.
Acquiring PR may take between six to twelve months. However, this period varies depending on individual circumstances and could be longer.
Yes, as a Permanent Resident, you have the right to work in Sri Lanka.
While it's rare, a Permanent Resident can be deported under circumstances if they breach national security, conduct punishable crimes, or show false evidence during the application process.
Unlike ordinary visas, Permanent Residency does not need to be renewed as it is valid indefinitely. However, Permanent Residents should renew their PR Identity Card every ten years.
The official website of the Department of Immigration and Emigration is a valuable resource for all immigration-related matters. For legal advice, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka can provide information about qualified immigration lawyers. Other resources may include the International Organization for Migration Sri Lanka and the Resident Visa Section of the Sri Lanka High Commission.
If you need legal assistance for Permanent Residency in Sri Lanka, consult a lawyer who specializes in immigration law. They will provide valuable advice, help you prepare your application, and ensure you comply with all necessary regulations. To get started, contact the Bar Association of Sri Lanka for a list of registered immigration lawyers.
