The Sri Lankan Passport: Overview and Renewal Process

The Sri Lankan passport, issued by the Department of Immigration and Emigration, is a critical travel document for citizens. It serves as an official identification and proof of citizenship, whether at home or abroad. Besides enabling international travel, the passport assures holders the right to seek consular assistance from Sri Lankan missions overseas. The latest version features an RFID chip with biometric data, enhancing security against fraud and identity theft. The passport’s validity is typically 10 years for adults and three years for minors unless parents request otherwise. Renewal is advised well before expiry to prevent travel delays or entry denials.

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When to Renew Your Sri Lankan Passport?

Renewal is possible anytime, but note that remaining validity from the old passport is not carried over. Renewal is mandatory in these cases:

• • Expired passport.

• • Insufficient validity (e.g., less than six months for some countries).

• • Fully used or damaged pages.

• • Change in name, gender, or appearance.

• • Lost or stolen passport.

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Renewal Costs

Fees vary by passport type and urgency:

Passport Type	Normal Service (LKR)	Urgent Service (LKR)
10-year passport (adults)	10,000	20,000
Minor’s passport	3,000	9,000
Emergency certificate	500	N/A

Validity period for 3 years 

Normal Basis –  LKR. 3,000.00
Urgent Basis – LKR. 9,000.00

Validity period for 10 years

Normal Basis –  LKR. 10,000.00

Urgent Basis – LKR. 20,000.00

Note: Emergency certificates, valid for two years, are for Buddhist pilgrims traveling to India or Nepal.

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Processing Time

• • In Sri Lanka:
    • • Normal service: 30 working days.
    • • Urgent service: Same-day delivery.

• • Abroad: 8-12 weeks via Sri Lankan diplomatic missions.

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Required Documents for Renewal

Prepare the following documents to ensure a smooth application process:

1. 1. Completed application form (passport_application).

1. 1. Original and photocopy of the current passport (personal information page).

1. 1. Birth certificate (original and photocopy).

1. 1. Photo studio acknowledgement

1. 1. National Identity Card (NIC) (original and photocopy).

1. 1. Marriage certificate (if applicable).

1. 1. Relevant certificates for Buddhist priests (if applicable).

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How to Renew Your Passport?

1. Online Renewal (For Applicants Over 15 Years)

• • Visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration website.

• • Create an account and log in.

• • Choose the application type (Normal or Urgent Service).

• • Submit required details, upload scanned documents, and pay the fee online.

• • Schedule an appointment for biometric data collection.

 

2. In-Person Renewal

• • Visit a Department of Immigration and Emigration office:
    • • Main office in Battaramulla.
    • • Regional offices in Kandy, Matara, Vavuniya, and Kurunegala.

• • Submit documents during working hours (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, weekdays only).

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Renewal for Minors and Seniors

• • Minors (under 16 years): Must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Documents required include:
    • • Child’s birth certificate and passport.
    • • Parent’s NIC or passport.
    • • Consent letter from parents/guardians.

• • Seniors (60 years and above): No additional requirements; however, fingerprint submission is waived.

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Renewal Outside Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan citizens abroad can renew their passports through local Sri Lankan diplomatic missions. If no mission is available in the resident country, apply in the nearest country with a Sri Lankan mission. Steps include:

1. 1. Complete Form ‘K’-35 A. (click here )

1. 1. Submit required documents and fees at the mission.

1. 1. Collect the renewed passport or follow specific instructions provided.

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Urgent Renewal

For urgent applications:

• • Opt for One-Day Service online or in person.

• • Submit all documents and complete biometrics during operating hours (7:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon).

• • The passport is issued the same day (for in-country applications).

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Additional Tips

1. 1. Regularly check your passport’s expiry date and renew early.

1. 1. Keep photocopies of essential documents for backup.

1. 1. Use the Department’s online tools for appointment scheduling and application tracking.

For further details, visit the official website: www.immigration.gov.lk.