Passport renewal in Sri Lanka
Renewing a Sri Lankan passport generally involves submitting an application form along with required documents and photographs to the Department of Immigration and Emigration or a Sri Lankan overseas mission. The process can be done in person or through a representative.
Most people are advised to begin the passport renewal process several months before their current passport expires. This allows ample time to gather all necessary documents, schedule appointments if required, and account for processing times, which can vary depending on the application type and submission location (e.g., within Sri Lanka or at an overseas mission).
Start 90 days ahead
This lead time is suggested to account for potential appointment booking delays, the time needed to collect all required documents, and the processing period once the application is submitted. Processing times can vary, especially for applications submitted from abroad.
The process
- 1Obtain the relevant application form (e.g., 'K' Form for new passports or renewals). These are typically available for download from the Department of Immigration and Emigration website or at their offices/overseas missions.
- 2Complete the application form accurately, ensuring all sections are filled out and signed as required.
- 3Gather all necessary supporting documents, which typically include the expiring passport, national identity card, birth certificate, and potentially marriage certificate (if applicable for name change).
- 4Obtain new photographs that meet the specified requirements (size, background, expression, etc.), usually attested by a Grama Niladhari or authorized officer.
- 5Submit the completed application form, photographs, and all supporting documents in person to the Head Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Battaramulla, a regional office, or a Sri Lankan overseas mission. Some applications may be submitted through authorized agents or by a representative.
- 6Pay the applicable processing fee at the time of submission.
- 7Collect the new passport once it is ready, either in person or via a designated collection method, often requiring the submission receipt.
What to bring
- Completed application form (e.g., Form 'K')
- Current/Expiring passport
- National Identity Card (NIC) (original and photocopy)
- Original Birth Certificate (and a photocopy)
- Photographs meeting specified requirements (typically 3.5cm x 4.5cm, light blue background, no dark clothing, with attestation)
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable for name change or spousal endorsement)
- Profession/Occupation certificate (if updating profession)
- Any other relevant documents based on specific application type (e.g., police report for lost/damaged passport)
Who handles it
Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka (ආගමන හා විගමන දෙපාර්තමේන්තුව)
https://www.immigration.gov.lk/
Passport renewal fees vary based on the service type (e.g., normal service, urgent service, applications submitted overseas). The current fee structure should be confirmed directly with the Department of Immigration and Emigration or the relevant Sri Lankan overseas mission before submitting an application.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure photographs meet the strict specifications; incorrect photos are a common reason for application delays.
- Verify all required supporting documents are original and correctly photocopied, as specified by the department.
- Double-check that the application form is filled out completely and accurately, with all necessary attestations and signatures.
- Be aware of varying processing times and fees depending on whether the application is for normal or urgent service, or submitted within Sri Lanka versus abroad.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Sri Lanka
Passport renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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