Colombo, Sri Lanka

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Sri Lanka offers a Tourist Visa that can be obtained through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) The visa is typically valid for up to 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. You can apply online, and approval is typically given within 24 hours.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Sri Lanka offers Visa on Arrival (VOA) for citizens of most countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union. However, travelers must have a return ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and valid travel documents.

• Digital Nomad Visa

Sri Lanka does not yet have a specific digital nomad visa, but the tourist visa may be sufficient for short-term remote workers. Many expats and digital nomads in Colombo stay on tourist visas and extend them as needed. However, always check for the latest updates.

For visa information, visit the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration website.

Cost of Living

Accommodation

Colombo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. In general:

• Budget: Hostel rooms or guesthouses start at around $6.20–$12.40 per night.
• Mid-Range: 3-star hotels or serviced apartments range from $21.70–$37.20 per night.
• Luxury: Luxury hotels or high-end serviced apartments cost $46.50–$93.00 or more per night.

Food Sri Lankan food is affordable and delicious. Street food and local restaurants offer meals at reasonable prices:

• Street Food: You can get local dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, and roti for around $0.62–$1.55.
• Restaurants: Mid-range restaurants might charge $4.65–$9.30 per meal, while upscale restaurants could cost $12.40–$21.70 per person.

Transportation Getting around Colombo is relatively affordable.

• Tuk-tuks are the most popular way of getting around, and a short ride costs around $0.93–$1.86.
• Public buses are very cheap, with fares starting from $0.03–$0.15. For longer trips, taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber are available.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Sri Lanka are generally low compared to Western countries. A doctor’s consultation may cost between $3.10–$9.30. Public hospitals are affordable, while private hospitals charge more but offer high-quality care.

Climate & Weather

Dry and Rainy Seasons

Colombo experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

• Dry Season (December–March): This is the best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C (78°F – 86°F).
• Rainy Season (May–October): During the monsoon, Colombo experiences heavy rains, especially from the southwest monsoon, with showers common in the afternoons. Temperatures remain warm, ranging from 24°C to 28°C (75°F – 82°F).

Landscape

Colombo is a coastal city with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

• Beaches: Colombo has several beaches, such as Galle Face Green, a popular place for locals and tourists to relax by the sea.
• Parks and Green Spaces: The city boasts beautiful parks like Viharamahadevi Park, providing green spaces amidst the urban environment.
• Waterways: Colombo has several canals, including the Beira Lake, which adds to its picturesque landscape.

Things to Do

Heritage Sites

• Galle Face Green: A long stretch of lawn along the coast, perfect for picnics and watching the sunset.
• Gangaramaya Temple: A beautiful Buddhist temple with a mix of modern and traditional architecture.
• Colombo National Museum: A must-visit to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.

Adventure Activities

• Water Sports: Colombo’s beaches offer various water activities, including surfing, windsurfing, and boating.
• Cycling: Colombo is becoming more bike-friendly with dedicated cycling lanes along the coast.

Nightlife

Colombo’s nightlife scene offers plenty of options, from rooftop bars to lively clubs. Popular spots include:

• The Sugar Beach Club
• Galle Face Hotel Rooftop Bar
• Pettah Market Nightlife

Wellness Retreats

There are numerous wellness retreats around Colombo that focus on yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda.

Shopping

Colombo is home to modern malls like Odel, Crescat Boulevard, and Liberty Plaza, offering a range of products from international brands to local souvenirs.

Lifestyle

Colombo offers a blend of modern conveniences and traditional cultural practices. Local markets, such as Pettah Market, are filled with lively vendors selling everything from fresh produce to textiles. The city is known for its laid-back atmosphere, with people often taking time to enjoy food, drink, and socialize.

Sri Lanka’s population is diverse, with Sinhalese, Tamils, and various other ethnic groups living harmoniously. Festivals like Vesak (Buddha’s birthday) and Diwali are widely celebrated. The Colombo social scene is dynamic, with a mix of local and international communities, making it easy to integrate into the social fabric of the city.

Other Important Locations in Sri Lanka

• Kandy: A historical city with the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Galle: A coastal town known for its colonial Dutch architecture and beautiful beaches.
• Nuwara Eliya: Known for its cool climate and tea plantations.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Rooms in guesthouses or hostels cost between $77–$124.00 per month.
• Mid-Range: 1-2 bedroom apartments range from $155.00–$310.00.
• Luxury: High-end apartments or villas in central areas like Colombo 3 or 7 can go for $465.00–$930.00.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Colombo has a growing number of co-working spaces ideal for freelancers and digital nomads. Some popular options include:

• Colombo Cooperative
• The Hive Colombo
  Costs range from $15–$46 per month, depending on the space and services.

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi: Colombo offers reliable Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and coworking spaces. Free public hotspots are available but may not have the fastest speeds.
• SIM: Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel are the primary providers of prepaid SIM cards. SIMs are affordable and can be purchased at the airport or retail outlets.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering is a rewarding experience in Colombo. Many NGOs and organizations focus on areas such as education, child welfare, and environmental conservation. Organizations like Sarvodaya offer various volunteer programs. Explore volunteer options at www.volunteerhq.org or local volunteering organization websites.

Local Employment Options

• IT and software development positions.
• Tourism and hospitality roles in hotels.
• English teaching or tutoring.

Real Estate Investment Options

Colombo is an attractive destination for real estate investment, with demand for residential and commercial properties on the rise. Investment opportunities are available in luxury apartments, office spaces, and land in up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Colombo’s start-up scene is thriving, particularly in tech and innovation. With a young, tech-savvy population and a supportive government infrastructure, opportunities abound for entrepreneurs.

Business Setup Process for Expats

1. Research Business Opportunities:
   Colombo, being the commercial and financial capital of Sri Lanka, offers a wide range of business opportunities. Key sectors include tourism, IT, retail, hospitality, and education. Entrepreneurs should carefully research the local market and identify opportunities that align with both their skills and the growing demand in Colombo.
2. Understand Legal Requirements:
   • Registering a Business: The process of setting up a business in Sri Lanka involves registering with the Registrar of Companies to obtain a Certificate of Incorporation.
   • Apply for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) from the Department of Inland Revenue.
   • Business Structure: Common structures for businesses in Colombo include Private Limited Companies (Pvt Ltd) and Public Limited Companies (PLC). The Pvt Ltd structure is most common for small-to-medium-sized businesses.
   • Obtaining Necessary Licenses: Depending on the nature of the business, you may need additional licenses from local authorities or industry regulators. For instance, food businesses may need health permits, while IT businesses may require telecommunication licenses.
3. Visa Requirements for Entrepreneurs:
   Expats looking to start a business in Colombo may apply for a Temporary Resident Visa or Business Visa. These visas are typically issued for up to one year and can be extended. A Long-Term Visa or Permanent Residency may be possible if the business proves successful and creates significant economic impact.
4. Opening a Bank Account:
   To manage the finances of your business, you’ll need a Sri Lankan bank account. Opening an account typically requires a valid passport, proof of residence, and CIN (Company Registration) if applicable.
5. Networking and Business Support:
   Colombo has a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem, supported by organizations such as SLASSCOM (Sri Lanka Association of Software and Services Companies) and Sri Lanka Export Development Board. Business incubators and accelerators like Colombo Innovation Tower and The Hatch also provide valuable resources and networking opportunities for start-ups.

Business Opportunities in Colombo

1. Tourism Industry:
   Colombo is a key gateway to Sri Lanka’s tourism, attracting travelers for its cultural heritage, beaches, and shopping. There are numerous opportunities for businesses related to hotels, guesthouses, travel agencies, and tour operators. Additionally, niche experiences like eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and luxury experiences are gaining traction in the city.
2. Information Technology and Start-ups:
   Colombo has rapidly emerged as a technology hub in South Asia. The IT and start-up ecosystem is thriving, particularly in fields like software development, fintech, and digital marketing. The government’s initiatives, such as the E-commerce and IT Park in Colombo, are making it an attractive place for tech entrepreneurs.
3. Real Estate and Property Development:
   With the rapid urbanization of Colombo, the real estate sector is booming. There are opportunities in both residential and commercial property development, as well as property management services. Luxury condos, office spaces, and mixed-use developments are particularly in demand.
4. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Ventures:
   As environmental awareness grows, there is a demand for businesses focused on sustainability. Opportunities exist in the fields of renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. Many local and international businesses are keen to invest in green solutions, from eco-friendly packaging to solar energy systems.
5. Retail and E-Commerce:
   Colombo’s growing middle class and changing consumer behavior present excellent opportunities in retail and e-commerce. Local entrepreneurs have tapped into various niche markets, from fashion to tech gadgets. E-commerce platforms that offer products tailored to Sri Lankan tastes are becoming increasingly popular.