Dual citizenship potentially available to all Lankans

29 January 2015 04:52 pm - 153 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake presenting the interim budget 2015 today said that the option of dual citizenship would be available to all persons of Sri Lankan origin and granted after due evaluation. A payment of Rs. 500,000 will have to precede each individual request.

Furthermore, provision will be made for foreigners seeking resident status in Sri Lanka who are in a position to invest US$ 10 million in the country. All such applications would be subject to the approval of Defence Ministry, and would need to be renewed every 5 years. The visa fee for such persons will be Rs. 2.5 million.

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Comments - 153

Nalin Friday, 30 January 2015 07:41 AM

Out of his mind, $10 mill can get me to the French Revere.

Sha Friday, 30 January 2015 08:44 AM

If u want take it. No one force u.

Rod Friday, 30 January 2015 08:48 AM

The visa fee for an individual is ridiculously high. We left the country because we were a minority group and there was no security for us and children. Now we would like to have dual citizenship being of Sri LankanOrigin but look at the fees. This is unbelievable.

BuffaloaCitizen Friday, 30 January 2015 08:51 AM

Dual Citizenship in India costs around Rs. 30,000.00. What has Sri Lanka to offer above India? It is even cheaper for a foreigner to get PR in Singapore as it costs slightly more.

Nihal Amarasekera Friday, 30 January 2015 09:02 AM

"Potentially", not for undesirables.

dp Friday, 30 January 2015 10:20 AM

Good decision1.At least government can recover some of the money spent on free education2. Only those people who really love the country will applyHappy pay even a million

goonesekere Friday, 30 January 2015 10:34 AM

PLs dont cry go to Singapore

Rajan Friday, 30 January 2015 10:34 AM

The fee of Rs.500,000 is incredibly high!All foreign residents are not necessarily very rich

Laminate Friday, 30 January 2015 10:50 AM

That is India, this is Sri Lanka....

Alex Friday, 30 January 2015 10:59 AM

Any confession for professionals?

Sydney Friday, 30 January 2015 11:18 AM

So if I get dual will my wife get it for free? Or do we have to pay another 500k for her?

robinson Friday, 30 January 2015 11:25 AM

good ....

regit Silva Friday, 30 January 2015 11:29 AM

Hi Rod.Please do not come back. We do not need you. This is believable.

AG Friday, 30 January 2015 11:39 AM

Why try to recover money from ONLY those who migrated? One does not need to reside in the country itself to serve the country. Many people who live in other countries send considerable amount of money back home, which will be an injection of foreign currency to the country

Sam Friday, 30 January 2015 11:40 AM

You mean concessions ?

wsw Friday, 30 January 2015 11:44 AM

Hey Buffaloa,, depends how badly you want it. Btw, who wants to go to India even if they offer it free of charge.

Amarakoon Friday, 30 January 2015 11:46 AM

This is good news. I am living in Europe and several times telephoned Sri Lankan missions to know more about the matter. Embassy staffs are clueless and unable to give any information.

Aloy Friday, 30 January 2015 11:54 AM

This visa fee is ridiculously high. We have worked overseas and still retained the citizenship while educating the children overseas. We have also remitted our savings to SL for fighting the war. We want our children to return now. GOSL should reconsider the excessive visa fee.

sachin weera Friday, 30 January 2015 12:01 PM

I think charging a high fee should not be criticized.Most of the Sri lankan working abroad benefit from free education. I think this is a way to pay back some of the money you owe :)

Fred Friday, 30 January 2015 12:01 PM

As Sri lankan we were born and lived more than half the life in Sri lanka. As senior we live on our pension which will be coming to the country on foreign exchange which will be a great advantage. What concession is the govt willing to offer. It looks like the New Govt and the Minister is try to squeeze the expatriate and make his budget. Remember the biggest avenue of foreign mxchange exchange is through Foreign Employment,,Tourism and Expatriate.How will the Expatriates have the confidence in bringing their money to invest in the country. It will be the same old minister who will fill their coffer.

Madu Friday, 30 January 2015 12:16 PM

I believe U$1000 is a fair amount, given the fact there would be a screening process, and you need to be in Sri Lanka etc. At the moment still in my opinion it may not be possible to skip the interview process. If that can be done outside Sri Lanka, in the respective consulates, then doubling the price or even tripling might be okay with most. However U$5000 is quite high I think and needs re-consideration.

azeem Friday, 30 January 2015 12:19 PM

Too high.Very unreasonable.Fee needs to be brought down considerably.

RAJAN WELLS Friday, 30 January 2015 12:20 PM

Any concessions for seniors and professionals

Mali Friday, 30 January 2015 12:31 PM

Dear Rod,If you are a Sri Lankan who had left you need only Dual Citizenship, Am of the opinion that the visa fees does not come into the issue. Please correct me if am wrong.

Martin1234 Friday, 30 January 2015 12:31 PM

India has no dual citizenship option ,they have PIO/OCI cards , which is 15,000 Indian rupee(its worth like a pocket money ). This allows multiple entry /no overstay issue , if required they get citizenship in India , but loose the other..

sarathbanda Friday, 30 January 2015 12:31 PM

you pay millions to go oversees and obtain citizenship after many yearslkr500000/= relatively reasonable. be a blessing to your home land

Mali Friday, 30 January 2015 12:35 PM

What is given by the Indian Govt.is O.C.I -Life Long Visa (Overseas Citizen of India), not Dual Citizenship. Please correct me if am wrong

firoza Friday, 30 January 2015 12:40 PM

I am a pensioneer and feel 500000/- is too much. Consider to reduce reasonably. My pensipn is just 12000/ . Since I collect it inder the foreign pension scheme I am not eitltled to the normal allowances to the salary i would reveive if i was in Sro Lanka.also.

firoza Friday, 30 January 2015 12:43 PM

Any concession for retired professionals or pensioners?

Uraja Friday, 30 January 2015 12:59 PM

Professionals should pay double by enjoying the free education from the country.

leena Friday, 30 January 2015 01:11 PM

Professionals know to spell CONCESSION, which is different from confession : )

leena Friday, 30 January 2015 01:13 PM

Dear Buffaloa,The price tag is related to how much encouragement/discouragement the government offers to foreigners. India has enough space for enough new citizens. Do you think Colombo has space left?Apples and Oranges, really.

iemerald Friday, 30 January 2015 01:20 PM

ONE HAS TO BE RICH TO GAIN DUAL CITIZENSHIP THAT IS MOST BANDAS OUT OF THIS AND MEGA MEGA RICH TO SETTLE DOWN IN SRI LANKA AND MAKE A CONTRIBUTION $1O MILLION WORTH.

jain Friday, 30 January 2015 01:21 PM

What about those who falsely claimed asylum in forged nsmes and now hold foreign nationality. Money is not a hurdle for many of those who migrated for various reasons and adopted a different nationality. Those who falsely claimed asylum and undermined the image of the country shoud. Be scrutinized carefully.

IEMERALD Friday, 30 January 2015 01:24 PM

what a mutt.most ex pats are not rich but they get by free education? the remittances made by the majority of expats far outweigh the cost of free education.if you are a poor bastard no love of country could make you pay a million that you do not have.get a reality check DP

iemerald Friday, 30 January 2015 01:27 PM

if i hadd $10 millioni will come twice a year on an extended visa and stioll have a l;ife of riley.i would rather give my money to poor people than give it to a government how good it may be.will let everyone know when i win a big lottery abroad.

DR RIFAI Friday, 30 January 2015 01:35 PM

Dual citizenship is a good way to attract investment into Sri Lanka. The more people comet to Sri Lanka the more investment will come into the country. Who will take this facility? mostly people of Sri Lanka who live in Europe right now. But if you charge 500.000 rupees no one will come. Even it is said 200.000 per head is very high. I think there is no difference between this government and previous one on this issue.People will be better off with former government in this issue. Why does this government charge this amount of money. This is detrimental to bring more investment or it will be only for rich people and yet, they should consider a large numbers of working class people.

Rathana Friday, 30 January 2015 03:21 PM

Citizenship is not for investment purposes.It is a basic right of people.

Alex Friday, 30 January 2015 03:22 PM

Is this facility only for rich expats??????

matt Friday, 30 January 2015 03:25 PM

Hope that you noted, the Rs10 million is your investment, not a payment to the government. Thanks

senakak Friday, 30 January 2015 03:27 PM

this man Ravi is a thickhead criminal

senakak Friday, 30 January 2015 03:30 PM

full agree with you iemerald

Lanka Friday, 30 January 2015 03:31 PM

If someone wants it they can apply for it!!!!!!!!! A clause must be there no asylum seekers as these are detrimental to the nation.

Truth Friday, 30 January 2015 04:25 PM

It is not a free education. It is funded through taxes!!!

dp Friday, 30 January 2015 04:36 PM

Take it or leave it

Guna Friday, 30 January 2015 05:11 PM

I think the 500 000 Rs is very reasonable .But charging U$10 m investment to gain the resident status is too much. Singapore and Malaysia charges very low to grant a PR or long term visa.Charging 2.5 million for the visa also on the high side.It is easy to attract some investment but it is difficult to attract a good and long-term investment.Sri Lanka has been deprived of these investment for long I only hope that common sense will prevail at least this time around.Please look far beyond the race and petty politics otherwise you are forever doomed.

lakshman Friday, 30 January 2015 05:28 PM

For one million one get the Green Card for US or PR in UK. For USD 500,000 in Portugal, Spain ,Malta or Cyprus. For 75,000 in Philippines and Thailand through Thailand Elie program with VIP treatment. This is obviously aimed at high end investment - but these people can a better deal in far more developed countries than Sri Lanka.

sri Friday, 30 January 2015 05:29 PM

Do the same basic rights as Sri Lankan resident apply to a Dual Citizen including voting rights ?

Fahmy Friday, 30 January 2015 05:46 PM

Clearly out of their mind. If they not going to reduce than I would register one as a dual than apply for residence as a spouse.

No name Friday, 30 January 2015 05:54 PM

If someone loved the country and wanted to be part of the country they would pay anything to get a VISA to be able to call them self a proud Sri Lankan. Money can only buy a passport, but been Sri Lankan is all about how you feel inside you heart! You shouldnt be a Sri Lankan for what the country has to offer you !!

Sam Friday, 30 January 2015 06:08 PM

Looks like this govt wants to discourage skilled professionals returning to Sri Lanka as well......Hmmmm

Dr Sydney Friday, 30 January 2015 06:18 PM

This fee is too high especially for a family unit. If you have a family of 4 (mum,dad,2 kids), this will be Rs. 2 million. That is over 15K US$. That is just too high for a young middle class family who have to pay mortgages and other expenses living in these expensive city. But the benefit of giving dual citizenship is not only that these people will when the opportunity present support and encourage SL but also a lot will come back to live in SL in retirement. So they will use their foreign citizenship to pay for the medical etc and also with their sizeable retirement be ale to spend that money in SL. a win for SL in the long run,

M.Perera Friday, 30 January 2015 06:29 PM

This amount is unreasonable . The earlier amount of Rs.200,000/- was a reasonable amount for Sri Lankans who wants dual citizenship.

milindras Friday, 30 January 2015 06:56 PM

Are you joking? Rs.500000!!!

Nalin Friday, 30 January 2015 07:10 PM

I totally agree. This fee is too much. What was the rationale to increase earlier fee of Rs 200,000 to Rs. 500,000 ? We should follow India and provide life time, multiple entry visa (which is similar to dual citizenship ) for Sri Lankan living abroad for a nominal fee.http://cgibirmingham.org/page/display/10/67

Shani Friday, 30 January 2015 07:15 PM

If it was not safe enough that time why do you want to go back now. You can stay where ever you want and let the people who are interested to go back to Sri Lanka. If you were the minority then how could you be anything else now?

Sam Friday, 30 January 2015 07:15 PM

So anybody who cannot pay 500k is undesirable? .... Good for those who make money by hook or crook.

Necto Citi Friday, 30 January 2015 07:17 PM

yes the amount is high for a middle class family.Atleast now there is a policy which is clear.Most of the countries charge more than this to extend visa.So, should not complain

Vijith Friday, 30 January 2015 07:19 PM

Looks like some wants only rich guys back who would pay anything ...... If Money is not an issue make it Rs 50,000 and evaluate the merits of each application.

Upul Friday, 30 January 2015 07:25 PM

This new fee is over and beyond the capability of most of the people who earns genuinely. Hope the minister will have a second look at the fee.

lakmal Friday, 30 January 2015 07:26 PM

Then you can attract donkeys

Pras Friday, 30 January 2015 07:28 PM

Minister Ravi you out of touch with hard working Sri Lankan, you will be axed in next election if you behave like idiot we will talk to JVP to be fare with fee, The other thing I can not understand why do you charge a fee for x Sri Lankan who managed to get an citizenship other country in the first place, We know how what you did to SATHOSA. ,you must reward them by giving citizenship free so that country will attract more foreign exchange. Remember we did lots of work for MY3 win

Ranjith Friday, 30 January 2015 07:40 PM

Rs 500 000 is too much for a ordinary citizen .i hope our president reconsider the fee again

Upul Lakshan Friday, 30 January 2015 07:45 PM

price is insane way too high... via DM Android App

wasantha premaratne Friday, 30 January 2015 07:48 PM

It would not be fair to get so much money

george Friday, 30 January 2015 07:50 PM

All the guys made comments against the new rule, have got no intention of investing money in Sri Lanka or serving the motherland using their professional background. They all are tryning benefit them selves. Can any professional comment about your intentions of doing anything for the country.In deails please.

P.Dissanayake Friday, 30 January 2015 07:59 PM

Please reconsider to reduce this fee. This is too much for the Sri Lankan born who live paycheck to paycheck (in other countries) who would come back to invest in small scale projects with their savings. And also consider the Sri lankan who like to come back and reunite with their families.

Dharshi Friday, 30 January 2015 08:10 PM

IT SAYS WE DONT NEED ANY HOOKS OR CROOKS, VERY GOOD IDEA, WELL DONE!! IT SHOWS THIS GOVT. NEEDS PROFESSIONAL SKILL FAMILIES WITH GOOD BACKGROUND ONLY WHO CAN AFFORD IT, IF NOT THE COUNTRY WILL GO IN TO THE DRAIN AGAIN!!!!!!

Sana Friday, 30 January 2015 08:19 PM

Promoting tourism is costly to get down foreigners to Sri Lanka. But Dual citizenship for a reasonable fee such USD 1000 would be reasonable to any sri lankan left the country for what ever reason. This would be a foreign exchange income without any effort. Not only that dual citizenship holders will spend their money inside the country. Limit the time period to every year citizenship must be renewed. Think of the easy money country will receive. DO NOT HURT YOUR COUNTRY FELLOWS. YOU WILL HAVE THE CONSEQUENCES IF YOU NEGLECT THIS INCOME. POWER COME AND GOES...............BE A GOOD BOY

Weeraratne Friday, 30 January 2015 08:22 PM

Rs 100,000/= is reasonable for individuals and 200,000/= for a family.

Bala Friday, 30 January 2015 08:39 PM

You are free to get Indian citizenship then - why not - cheap things no good.

bala Friday, 30 January 2015 08:42 PM

No only shows how ernest you are.

Lankaboy Friday, 30 January 2015 08:43 PM

Bullshit.. Are you saying that those how lives out side Sri Lanka have millions of dollars in their account ..ofcourse there are significant amount of people lives with tight budget but still love their country..DO those people not deserve to have one? you looks kind of jealous of people living outside. still those who live out side contribute significant amount of dollars to gov coffer by sending dollars to family and visiting Sri Lanka..

Citizen Friday, 30 January 2015 08:43 PM

Dual citizenship is for those who gave up Sri Lankan passport! If it was decided SL passport was not necessary, it is reasonable to pay to get back your Sri Lankan passport.

Dr Rafi Friday, 30 January 2015 08:49 PM

is this facility given for the Sri Lankans living in India too? if so what is the procedure? thank you

Bala Friday, 30 January 2015 08:52 PM

They left our country - may be for various reasons and TOOK other citizenship. They were happy to pay for that which was more than Rs.500000.- (US$.3760.-) So let them now pay to get back SL citizenship if they had that amount of money..

Piuma Friday, 30 January 2015 08:52 PM

Rs.500000 it is too high who reside in out of Sri Lanka ,all of them notProfessional or Wealthy. .I think 90% of earn just living expenses. But they love to come Motherland with kids to connect to relatives. It is long term Benefits for the country from next generation. also. That way Sri Lanka earn more than 500000. forever and families will get to gather. As a Government need to think about to join families.. Before it was $200000It also too high. At least as a New Government should open certain period at low price ($500/) for Dual Citizen. Sri Lanka Matha will fill of foreign currency

citizen of srilanka Friday, 30 January 2015 09:10 PM

Granting of Dual Citizenship will squeeze the talented people in srilanka. This will reduce the opportunity for talented people here. please try to increase its price to save our talented people.

Sam Friday, 30 January 2015 09:31 PM

It is quite a steep curve, considering that the fee for Dual Citizenship was offered at Rs.5000 at inception. It is an illusion that has been painted to the Sri Lankan authorities that people living abroad live a life of luxury. It is not the case. There are certain safety nets offered by Western democracies to prevent its people (citizens or residents) from having to live in poverty as cost of living rises.We, in Sri Lanka, have encountered a high cost (financial and livelihood) during the 30 year long conflict and institutionalized corruption by the politicians through-out this period (during and post conflict). The cost in obtaining dual citizenship is not vey clear. Would it be Rs.500,000 per person or for a family? If it is per person, an average family of four would have to pay Rs. 2 million which would be quite high. I guess the Treasury would be able to assess things a bit better as the dust settles and they find their way through the apparent financial predicament that the country has been left by the previously elected Govt.

IEMERALD Friday, 30 January 2015 09:44 PM

yes i did.the income from my 10 million $ is what i would spend.

Upul Friday, 30 January 2015 09:51 PM

Rs. 500,000 is way too much for a person to apply for a dual citizenship. Please reconsider and make it a reasonable amount, so that people will even consider applying.

Lanka Friday, 30 January 2015 10:03 PM

This is not encouraging Sri Lankans who lives abroad, according to recent estimates over 3 Million Sri Lankan live abroad. This 5,00,000 fee will turn away many few will apply and get it. SL Govt. should think in a big picture how to attract at least half of 3 Million Sri Lankans reduce the fee to 1,00,000-2,00,000 and encourage them to get Dual citizenship.Any body who becomes a Dual citizen will make lot of investment, on real estate and vehicles.Majority of the Sri Lankan have study aboard and holding Degrees, successful in respective government jobs or private sector and they come with lot of good international expectance and good brains.This will be a big boost to the economy, and the real estate value will go up in price.Govt. should make a committee with intellectuals and request proposals on this Dual Citizenship matter.

dhammika Friday, 30 January 2015 10:11 PM

Weeraratna why should we pay to go to own country, If you have money pay millions. OK. AS a gift to Motherland NOT more than $500/ .

Prabath Friday, 30 January 2015 10:35 PM

This is ridiculous! I have 5 in my family so it will cost me $ 25,000 US$ get dual for my family?? I will invest this money where I am.

dhammika Friday, 30 January 2015 10:37 PM

Guna- you talk about millions business 500000 nothing for youEverybody not Millioners. WE are not talking about hand full millioners. We are talking about. who struggle for their family

Srikanthie Friday, 30 January 2015 11:07 PM

They have worked harder than any individual in Sri Lanka for they money they have earned. And you want to penalize them for wanting to spend this money in Sri Lanka?

Fair N Square Friday, 30 January 2015 11:18 PM

for OCI only thing u can NOT do is vote and buy agricultural property.. all else can be done, even buying property and opening bank accounts... STILL its worth for 15000INR.. .. Now a six months multiple entry for business itself is about 12000.... TG I have my OCI.. :P

razmaz Friday, 30 January 2015 11:20 PM

Oh, this opens a floodgate for asylum seekers who betrayed the country for benefits and better life . Many forged their names and date of births to get asylum in the European countries. There are no records in Sri Lanka for those who forged name and date of birth to become a successful refugees with concocted stories of arrest, torture and rape, etc,. Why should they be given dual citizenship. At the end of the day. Sri Lanka became a pariah country largely because of the bogus asylum seekers.

Fair N Square Friday, 30 January 2015 11:20 PM

wrong !!! its unfair to ask ppl to pay such amounts and then say they are NOT patriots... Bring it down to a 100,000 and see how many would apply..and who would be called patriots...

Antany Peter Friday, 30 January 2015 11:25 PM

The government should do everything to build trust and encourage the diaspora to get involved. If they do get dual citizenship definitely they will visit the country and spend money. This is good for the economy. Therefore, Rs 100000 is reasonable application fee for individuals and for a family Rs 200000 for husband and wife; for every child additional Rs 50000 is reasonable.

Fair N Square Friday, 30 January 2015 11:26 PM

yes for dual citizenship but a fee of 500 thousand rupees is way too much..100,000 is fair may be even 200,000 BUT NOT 500,000

as Friday, 30 January 2015 11:50 PM

Leaving the country with free education should not be the problem. My concern is about the people who get the free education and getting all benefits from the country and having all benefits and salaries from the country and doing nothing to the country. At least people who left the country are sending foreign currency to the country.

rhameed Friday, 30 January 2015 11:57 PM

Individual request per person in one family or one request for the entire family? The fundamental question is, as country are we promoting the dual citizenship or not?

Chandrika Saturday, 31 January 2015 12:22 AM

"Evaluation" must be based on whether the applicant have criminal record or not. Not on how much money they have or how much education and work experience they have.

K.D Saturday, 31 January 2015 12:34 AM

The fee is very his and it discourages the Sri Lankans live abroad for applying the duel citizenship. The government should reconsider this. Most people who left the country are need to invest in Sri lanka. They need to protect their properties in Sri Lanka. In addition to that duel citizenship will allow them to re-unite with their families easily.

Maya Saturday, 31 January 2015 12:53 AM

With this fee, you make Gota a saint as his plan

Peace Saturday, 31 January 2015 12:56 AM

Many Sri Lankans living abroad already make a huge contribution to the SL economy annually. Through direct and indirect foreign currency investments, gifts, tourism and other means. Their visits alone provide employment to thousands in tourism and related industries. Citizenship in any country is priceless for those who seek it. However, the attempt to balance a huge deficit incurred due to poor financial policies of the previous regime with dual citizenship fees seems unfair to many SL who are living abroad for genuine reasons. Those who insult all Sri Lankans living abroad or the countries they live in are utterly ignorant.

Shane Saturday, 31 January 2015 01:50 AM

For US,the minimum amount required for investment is $500,000.

Amila Saturday, 31 January 2015 02:23 AM

This is a joke. These people are out of their mind. Its all about winning the next election. Trying to fool locals by showing that they charge foreigners heavy. Australian emigration is lot cheaper, about 30 000 Rs the citizenship. This is not a good thing at all

Sam Samaranayaka Saturday, 31 January 2015 03:01 AM

The government must investigate this matter fully. It is unfair for the new applicants to pay more than doubled the former price. Moreover they have to go through a lengthy process to obtain the citizenship. I hope the government will come out with a reasonable policy. I am not asking those citizenship received in this manner to be cancelled.

Sunil Saturday, 31 January 2015 03:24 AM

@Guna - is your name Guna or GONA?

Sunil Saturday, 31 January 2015 03:33 AM

It could be that this PROFESSIONAL wishes to make a CONFESSION in order to obtain a CONCESSION?

Tharka Saturday, 31 January 2015 03:37 AM

RS 500 000 nisa pitaratawela inna aya eh ratawal welatama wela hitiyoth lankawata egollan genna hitiya sallith a ratawelama nawathi neda ??? ethakota indiawen nawatha genna yana ayagenuth RS 500 000 gane gannawada?

Saman Saturday, 31 January 2015 03:37 AM

I am a former government employee who has been living overseas for 8 years (SL 50 years) and hope to come and settle down in Sri Lanka. We did not bring any money from Sri Lanka. Our only purpose was to provide our children with a good education. I also know that most of the families like us who are living abroad do not have vast amounts of money saved up. I suggest that you introduce a category system such as retired government employees, professionals, applicant with families act. The new fees are extremely high. We cannot afford.

Wije malli Saturday, 31 January 2015 03:57 AM

Rs 500000? This is very short sighted, No way family of 4-5 will pay that amount! Mother lanka will loose in the long run! Hope they will open there eyes and change this policy.

Nalin Saturday, 31 January 2015 04:17 AM

Rather than paying an exhobitant fee for DC, lot better to obtain annually renewable temp visa for Rs. 10,000.00,Anyways this is either blackmailing or taking your birth right to ransom.Over to you president my3.and JVP for good governance

Shan Saturday, 31 January 2015 04:32 AM

Insane- so a family of 5will have to choose between paying 25laks for the dual citizenship and investing the hard earned money.

Fritz Saturday, 31 January 2015 04:50 AM

Dual citizenship is very heigh for a family of 3,Govt should consider the fee!!

chinthaka Saturday, 31 January 2015 05:01 AM

They want to make quick money as the time is ticking... Only 5 years left to make a fortune..

PM Saturday, 31 January 2015 05:15 AM

Just because one left the country for higher studies or better pastures does not mean you need to punish them. Many come back to serve the country after obtaining much needed education. Many of them contribute in money, knowledge, helpaid etc to the country more than their counterparts. Many spend their foreign currency when they come to SL for vacations. Some people have no clue about these.

John Fernando Saturday, 31 January 2015 05:20 AM

LKR 500,000/ per person is very unreasonable

Deen Saturday, 31 January 2015 06:06 AM

Rs,500.000 is way too much for averagePeople to go back home. Make it affordableWith Rs 100.000.

Sam Saturday, 31 January 2015 06:18 AM

I how can you say something like to a another Sri Lankan born individual? You have to tolerate. everyone is not same. If he has concerns , let him say that. This is not Rajapaksha era.

TC Saturday, 31 January 2015 06:34 AM

For any person willing and worthy enough to get dual citizenship in SL Rs.500k is not a big amount. Actually it is good to have a big entry fee, as it discourages every tom dick and harry who fled the country under various guises to get cheap entry into the country and do harm by saying they are "Sri Lankans". Good move GOSL!

Arun Vincent Saturday, 31 January 2015 06:46 AM

Regiit, you do not need us and we do not need you but we need our country back.

Gamage Saturday, 31 January 2015 06:56 AM

Will Tamils get it too?

Derby Saturday, 31 January 2015 07:03 AM

If I had $10 million I will stay in the U.S.A and go on vacations every where in the world! Why would I want to live in Sri Lanka if I had $10 million? These people are out of times or either these politicians have that kind of money and think everyone else has it too. They are so out of touch with the regular folks. At least, the previous regime rates were more practical!

Mods silva Saturday, 31 January 2015 07:31 AM

On what basis did you ask Rod not to come back??? I think we need less of people like you who seem to make judgements without knowing much.

Mac Iwin Saturday, 31 January 2015 07:36 AM

READ This people; only 500 000 for people of SL ORIGINThat is if you were born in SL10M is for foreigners

haris Saturday, 31 January 2015 07:41 AM

Time to stop spending money to Sri Lanka. We are thinking 24/7 about sri Lanka (still my country )but government thinking is horrible. The government Suppose to granted free citizen ship who is singheles born in Sri Lanka .

DHAMMIKA Saturday, 31 January 2015 07:47 AM

Rs. 500000 is too much .Sri Lanken who are living in foreign, they all are not professional and wealthy Most of them earn living expenses. But they love to come to motherland with kids unit with family members. High cost keep away next generation from Sri Lanka. and relatives. At least if open certain period for $500 it will be great. Government earn more than they plan

Faiz Saturday, 31 January 2015 08:05 AM

Dear Buffalo,India does not permit its citizens holding passports of another nation. They offer OCI which is a LIFELONG visa to India, for people of Indian Origin. Hence, your statement is not correct. As for the 30,000 rupees fee; you are right. BUT it is for issuance of an OCI permit.

Dr. H. Saturday, 31 January 2015 08:31 AM

Is there going to be a new policy for spouse visas?When the P.M. was P.M. under Chandrika he promised in the first instance a 1 year visa, followed by 2 years, followed by 5 years and then a permanent visa.This was reversed under the previous government. Some spouse visas are for 1 year and others for 2 years. The fee is free. Any idea?

Shivantha Saturday, 31 January 2015 08:54 AM

Too high.Very unreasonable.Fee Rs 500,000 needs to be brought down .

Don Christopher Saturday, 31 January 2015 09:59 AM

We worked hard to earn our living in an alien county The dual citizenship will only benefit Sri Lanka. Give them a Green card like in USA. This will bring good foreign exchange to Sri Lanka. Get some good advice .

Alisten Sydney Saturday, 31 January 2015 10:54 AM

Most of the Srilankans living abroad would not have paid any taxes or any money to Srilanka so this money is equivalent to visa processing fees like Australia. .This few ticket money for you. Too many foreniers will affect the culture of Srilanka. People has properties can sell part of it and pay for it.

AF Saturday, 31 January 2015 11:16 AM

WELL SAID...

Flamingo Saturday, 31 January 2015 11:34 AM

10m is obscene for foreigners Im married to a Lankan why cant I and our daughter who was born overseas have dual citizenship by marriagedependent at a reasonable price instead of the constant hassle of reapplying for residence visa via DM Android App

Papaa Sheik Saturday, 31 January 2015 11:44 AM

If any of you can Pay Millions To Go abroad, why cannot pay 500K to get Citizenship in SriLanka....

Wije Saturday, 31 January 2015 12:34 PM

In short term charging Rs500000 might be a good way of bridging the budget deficit.In my personal point of view in longer term country as a whole loosing an income stream.If a family of 4 members would have to spend Rs2000000 which is equivelent to $20000 this might be enough to buy an investment property in Australia. So they might think twise which option is viable. If this would have around $1000 for the principal applicant and $500 for a dependent under 18 someone might simply apply. It will help to more income collection and also this family might come to SL regularly and spend in the country.

Jt Saturday, 31 January 2015 05:25 PM

The government is is doing a good job of keeping away the educated and Sri lankan born people out of the country. We need these people back in the country to build a better SL. Stop the brain Drain. Encourage them back

george Saturday, 31 January 2015 05:41 PM

Have you got a foreign passport? You have lived overseas only 8 years

Abdul Saturday, 31 January 2015 06:33 PM

Rs 500.000 is far too much

Pasel Saturday, 31 January 2015 07:44 PM

If you are become Sri Lankan citizen you are automatically bind into the country with good and bad

Saman Saturday, 31 January 2015 08:01 PM

Is there any other country in the world that charge so much to grant Dual Citizenship ? I think govt do not appreciate the contribution of expatriates to Sri Lanka.They should encourage them to come and rebuild the country rather than charging an exorbitant entry tax.

PM Saturday, 31 January 2015 10:22 PM

No one appreciates the contributions of an expat, so why bother. Let them enjoy the circuses and tele dramas that they are good at.

PM Saturday, 31 January 2015 10:36 PM

George, take a trip around the Island and check out the hotels. While most of the "foreign" tourists with bag packs are checking into local small inns and kades for their meals, it is the expats who are bringing their hard earned money to keep the hotels and restaurants running. This is just one example!

Mathanamutha Saturday, 31 January 2015 11:22 PM

If I come back with my foreign passport with no intention of going back and dump it away and wear out my sarong and start living in a new village, how on earth they will know I am a foreigner ?Paan kaalai, paupuvaai please...Ha, ha haa..LOL

Lanka Sunday, 01 February 2015 01:28 AM

This is not encouraging Sri Lankans who lives abroad, according to recent figures over 3 Million Sri Lankan live and work abroad. This 5,00,000 fee will turn away many few will apply and get it. Srilankan Govt. should think in a big picture how to attract at least half of 3 Million Sri Lankans reduce the fee to 1,00,000 for an individual 2,50,000 for a family and encourage them to get Dual citizenship. Any body who becomes a Dual citizen will make lot of future investments, on real estate and vehicles. Majority of the Sri Lankan have studied aboard and holding Degrees, doing successful in respectable government and private sector jobs and they come with lot of good international experience and good work ethics.They are the people who experience good governance (Yaha Paalanaya) This will be a big boost to the Srilankan economy, and the real estate value will go up in price. Govt. should make a committee of intellectuals and request proposals on this Dual Citizenship matter.

L Perera Sunday, 01 February 2015 04:18 AM

What about those patriotic expats who continued to invest in SriLanka during the ethnic wars ? They had certain exemptions under the previous decisions by all political parties.

gamini Sunday, 01 February 2015 05:13 AM

It says $10 million not Rs. One who can spare that much money belongs to the super-rich of the world. With that much of money one can live in a place with a better quality of life than SL.

Rasanjali Sunday, 01 February 2015 09:01 AM

Yes of course 500,000 is too high and very unreasonable. I wrote to Mr Ravi Karunanayake regarding this issue and requested him to reduce the said amount. I believe he will consider about this issue once again.

Cricketpissa Sunday, 01 February 2015 09:17 AM

People who were born in the country have the rights to come back to their country of birth. Nobody has the right to decide that. The only people who want dual citizenship have assetts in SL which they need to protect or use in the future.It is rude and arrogant to deprive the human rights of an individual if he has lived overseas for various reasons.

Nishantha Sunday, 01 February 2015 11:02 AM

Every body who were born their have a right to live in their home country without paying any further .This is a kid of violating their human rights .I will never apply for this at this price It may be a descent way of looting money

joy Sunday, 01 February 2015 03:00 PM

Rs.500000 it is too high

Ravi PAUL Sunday, 01 February 2015 03:43 PM

jain Friday, 30 January 2015 13:21 What about those who falsely claimed asylum in forged nsmes and now hold foreign nationality. Money is not a hurdle for many of those who migrated for various reasons and adopted a different nationality. Those who falsely claimed asylum and undermined the image of the country shoud. Be scrutinized carefully - See more at: http://www.dailymirror.lk/62519/dual-citizenship-potentially-available-to-all-lankans

burt Tuesday, 03 February 2015 05:36 AM

Its not Rs.10m but USD.

sarath gooneratne Tuesday, 03 February 2015 05:04 PM

Rs. 500,000/- for duel citizenship is far too high for normal people living in foreign countries. It is best that the Government corrects this anomaly and bring it down to a reasonable amount , about Rs. 200,000/-. People do not come to foreign countries because they prefer foreign countries. I t is due to their individual circumstances. Hope the new Government reconsiders their decision and reduces the amount..

l. perera Wednesday, 04 February 2015 04:40 PM

What makes you think that SL is is out of the drain?It is your type of thinking that

Krish Thursday, 05 February 2015 12:34 AM

This is a joke (RS500,000)

Srikanthie Sunday, 15 February 2015 10:33 AM

I appeal to Ravi K to bring this down to about Rs.200,000. Or even Rs.250,000 which would be about $2000.

sujatha Thursday, 19 February 2015 06:17 PM

This is something that the ministers at the high rank positions stealing the wealth of the country and to compensate the deficit . Ministers introducing to charge high amount from those who got money, that is the new policy of the current Government. If you got money get the Dc or leave it.

Nalaka Friday, 27 February 2015 09:08 PM

I really appreciate "Lanka Sunday, 1 February 2015 01:28" comment. I have to spend £10,000, if I need Dual Citizenship for my family. But this fee put us away from applying and also plans to buy properties, get some shares from sri lankan companies. etc. Me and my family not going to lose out anything with that decision but Sri lanaka economy. Currently I am professor in UK university and gave lots of scholarships to SL student. for what? to help my country. I have seen there is many comments saying " You left the country and now why you need to come,.. many more stupid comments. You might not known 1/3 of foreign income come from overseas workers. I think this move will hurt Sri lanka economy badly.

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Dual citizenship potentially available to all Lankans

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