Buying land and property in Sri Lanka
The rules for foreign buyers, the costs and the steps, in plain language. This is general information, not legal advice; use a Sri Lankan lawyer for your purchase.
Buying guideCan a foreigner buy land in Sri Lanka?
Foreigners cannot own freehold land in Sri Lanka under the 2014 Land Act. What is allowed: 99-year leases, apartments, inheritance and dual citizens.
Buying guideThe 99-year lease in Sri Lanka explained
How the 99-year land lease works for foreigners in Sri Lanka: registration, 2% lease stamp duty since April 2025, no lease tax since 2017, the risks and what happens at expiry.
Buying guideBuying an apartment in Sri Lanka as a foreigner
Foreigners can buy condominium apartments in Sri Lanka freehold, on any floor, if the full price is paid by inward remittance. Rules, costs, Colombo.
Buying guideStamp duty, legal fees and the real cost of buying land in Sri Lanka
Stamp duty of 3% then 4%, legal fees of 1-2%, survey and registration: budget 5-7% on top of the price to buy land in Sri Lanka. Worked example included.
Buying guideThe 8 steps to buy land in Sri Lanka safely
The 8 steps to buy land in Sri Lanka safely: survey plan, 30-year title search, reservations, agreement to sell, deposit, deed, registration and after.