Starting a Business in Sri Lanka: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
Sri Lanka is emerging as a business-friendly destination, attracting both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors. Whether you’re looking to register a company, open a bank account, or repatriate profits, this guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Minimum Capital Requirement to Register a Company in Sri Lanka
One of the biggest advantages of starting a business in Sri Lanka is that there is no mandatory minimum capital requirement for registering a company, especially for a Limited Liability Company.
2. Requirements to Register a Company in Sri Lanka
To register a company, you’ll need:
- A Sri Lankan Company Secretary with a practicing license
- A Registered Address
- Compliance with Exchange Controllers Guidelines or Board of Investment (BOI) Approval (for foreign investors)
3. Key Considerations When Starting a Business in Sri Lanka
Before launching your business, consider:
- Location: Choose a strategic location based on your industry.
- Company Secretary: A licensed professional is required.
- Cost: Understand registration fees and operational expenses.
- Business Operations: Plan how to run the company efficiently.
- Bank Account Requirement: Ensure compliance with banking regulations.
4. Opening a Bank Account After Company Registration
Once your company is registered, you can open a corporate bank account in its name. Banks may require:
- Company registration documents
- Proof of business activities
- Identification of directors and shareholders
5. Repatriation of Profits
Foreign investors can repatriate profits as dividends, subject to Sri Lanka’s exchange control regulations.
6. Documents Required to Register a Company in Sri Lanka
The essential documents include:
- Form 01 (Company Registration)
- Form 18 (Consent and Certificate of Director)
- Form 19 (Consent and Certificate of Secretary)
- Articles of Association
- Public Notice (published in newspapers)
7. Can a Foreigner Start a Business in Sri Lanka?
Yes! Foreigners can start businesses in Sri Lanka, but certain industries may require BOI approval or special licenses.
8. How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in Sri Lanka?
The registration process typically takes 2-4 weeks, depending on documentation and approvals.
9. How to Register a Brand Name in Sri Lanka
To register a brand name:
- Submit an Intellectual Property application with the logo/trade name.
- Obtain a Filing Number from the Intellectual Property Office.
- Undergo an Examination Stage.
- Complete the Trademark Registration Process.
Hire an Agent to do your Trademark Registration
10. How to Invest in Sri Lanka as a Foreigner
Foreign investors can invest in Sri Lanka through:
- Board of Investment (BOI) projects
- Stock market investments
- Real estate purchases
- Government bonds
- Local business partnerships