Company Registration in Sri Lanka

At CSG Advisory, we provide comprehensive Sri Lanka incorporation services to turn the complexities of starting a business into a seamless experience. Our team of experienced business setup consultant Sri Lanka specializes in business incorporation, bank account opening, document preparation, taxation, accounting, HR, payroll, etc. Drop us a line today, and watch us turn your business setup Sri Lanka into a smooth and stress-free adventure.

Streamline Company Incorporation Sri Lanka the Smart Way with CSG Advisory

Sri Lanka, located in the heart of South Asia, has a liberalized economy and a legal framework that protects foreign investments, including the ability to repatriate profits. The country’s expanding economy, young workforce and supportive environment for startups offer excellent opportunities for international businesses looking to expand and enter the market.

Expanding your business to a new country can be complex, but CSG Advisory makes the process easier. We guide clients through every step of business registration Sri Lanka to ensure a smooth and hassle-free setup while ensuring full compliance with local business laws and regulations.

From company incorporation to operational readiness, our team of professionals provides end-to-end support so that you can establish your presence in this promising market in a confident and efficient manner. So, take the first step today- partner with us, and turn your Sri Lankan business ambitions into a smooth, real-world success story.

Sri Lanka Company Setup: Unlock Opportunities Across South Asia and Beyond

Strategically located between Asia and Europe, Sri Lanka is known for its rich culture and stunning natural beauty that has always attracted tourists from around the world. The country serves as a key hub for international trade and investment. Just like many countries, it faced economic challenges after the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, people in Sri Lanka are driving a strong entrepreneurial spirit by starting new businesses and registering private companies to revive the economy.

The country’s high employment rate makes it an attractive market for business ventures. Combined with its popularity as a tourist hotspot, Sri Lanka offers excellent opportunities for international partnerships, joint ventures and expansion. With a growing nominal GDP valued at $99.0 billion, the country offers a promising market for expansion, backed by investor-friendly policies and government initiatives.

The government aims to attract $5 billion in foreign investment by 2025, which will create even more opportunities for businesses. All these factors together create a supportive environment that makes Sri Lanka an ideal place for businesses across industries to grow and succeed. Company registration Sri Lanka is straightforward and investor-friendly, often easier than in many other countries.

One key advantage is that the country allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors. However, some industries have restrictions for international investors, so certain sectors may have limited participation and may require special approvals. Partnering with an experienced company registration consultant Sri Lanka ensures a smooth and hassle-free setup, as it helps navigate local regulations and unlock the full potential of this thriving market with confidence.

Find the Perfect Business Model for Your Investment

Selecting the right company structure is key to business success. Explore the options available for company formation Sri Lanka and choose the one that fits your business goals. If you are unsure which structure is best, CSG Advisory can guide you step by step to help you make a confident and informed decision for your venture.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Minimum Capital: US$1

What this entity can do:

Can invoice local customers

Can sign contracts with local clients

Can rent local office space

Import and export allowed

Branch office

Minimum Capital Not Required

What this entity can do:

Can invoice local customers

Can sign contracts with local clients

Can rent local office space

Import and export allowed

Representative office

Minimum Capital: US$1

What this entity can do:

Can rent local office space

Limitations:

Cannot invoice local customers

Cannot sign contracts with local clients

Import and export not allowed

Top Benefits When You Register Company Sri Lanka

Affordable and Flexible Business Setup

The country is one of the most budget-friendly countries in South Asia to start a business. Company incorporation cost Sri Lanka are relatively low, and there are multiple options available, including private limited companies and offshore company registration. This makes it an attractive choice for businesses of any size, from small ventures to large organizations.

Easy and Streamlined Registration

Private limited company registration Sri Lanka is efficient and straightforward. Entrepreneurs can choose between online registration or traditional methods, with processes designed to reduce paperwork and save time. Completing Sri Lanka LLC setup online is also possible, which provides added convenience for busy business owners.

Flexible Corporate Structure Options

Sri Lanka offers a variety of corporate structures, including private limited companies, public companies and offshore entities. This flexibility allows businesses to select the most suitable legal structure based on their investment size, operational goals and expansion plans, which eventually ensures long-term growth and strategic alignment.

Protection from Double Taxation

Sri Lanka is recognized as a secure destination for investors. The country has signed Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAs) with 45 nations, which ensures that foreign investors are not taxed twice on the same income. This provides financial clarity and reduces tax burdens for international businesses.

Access to a Dynamic and Multilingual Workforce

Sri Lanka has a talented and flexible workforce that is well-educated and multilingual. This means businesses can build teams to handle global operations smoothly, boost productivity and contribute to innovative solutions across different markets.

Attractive Opportunities for Foreign Investors

Foreign businesses can easily set up operations in Sri Lanka. BOI-approved companies may qualify for incentives such as tax holidays, customs duty exemptions and other investment-related benefits, depending on the sector, investment value and nature of operations.

Free Trade Agreements

Sri Lanka is also an attractive location for starting a business due to its strategic free trade agreements with key neighboring countries. These agreements allow companies to trade goods and services with minimal tariffs and fewer trade barriers. It creates a more favorable environment for expanding operations and reaching international markets.

Strong Agriculture and Export Potential

Sri Lanka’s fertile land and favorable climate make it a global leader in agricultural exports, including rubber, tea and spices. Companies focusing on sustainable farming or value-added products can find significant opportunities in both local and international markets.

Ready to Kickstart Your Sri Lanka Venture with Zero Hassle

Let our seasoned business registration firm Sri Lanka streamline incorporation as well as operations so your business hits the ground running.

Key Requirements to Start Business in Sri Lanka

You need to meet certain essential requirements for successful business incorporation Sri Lanka. Following these steps ensures that your foreign company Sri Lanka is legally compliant, well-prepared and positioned for success:

Establish a Business Address
You must have a local or virtual business address for a foreign business setup Sri Lanka. This address becomes the official point of contact for government notices, statutory communication and legal documents. CSG Advisory simplifies this requirement by helping you secure a compliant local or virtual business address in Sri Lanka. This way, you can focus on building your operations without worrying about administrative hurdles or credibility gaps.
Appoint a Local Company Secretary
Sri Lankan law requires appointing a company secretary who is a citizen and resident. The secretary provides consent for LLC registration Sri Lanka and ensures compliance with local regulations.
Open a Corporate Bank Account
After company incorporation in Sri Lanka, you are required to open a corporate bank account with a licensed bank in the country to operate your business. This account is needed not only for day-to-day transactions but also for depositing the company's share capital and bringing in operational funds legally.
Many banks now require your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) before opening certain types of accounts. This makes early tax registration even more important.
Complete Corporate Tax Registration and VAT Registration
Once you register company in Sri Lanka, you must register with the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) for tax purposes. Registering for these tax types early ensures compliance with Sri Lanka's fiscal requirements and avoids penalties as your business grows:
● Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): All companies must obtain a TIN from the IRD. Having a TIN is mandatory for corporate tax obligations and is increasingly required by banks for business account services.
● VAT Registration: VAT registration in Sri Lanka becomes mandatory if your taxable supply exceeds LKR 15 million in a quarter or LKR 60 million in a year. The current standard VAT rate is 18% on taxable goods and services, which applies once you meet the threshold.
● Corporate Income Tax: The standard corporate tax rate in Sri Lanka is 30% on taxable income for most companies. There are reduced rates or incentives available in specific cases, such as for service exports, but the general rule applies to foreign and local businesses alike.
CSG Advisory acts as your on-ground partner in Sri Lanka. Our business setup consultants handle all the practical requirements that often slow businesses down. From arranging a compliant business address and appointing a resident company secretary to coordinating corporate bank account setup and completing tax and VAT registrations, we take care of the groundwork. This allows you to enter the Sri Lankan market fully compliant, operationally ready and without unnecessary back-and-forth.

Required Documents for Foreign Company Setup Sri Lanka

You need to prepare and submit the following documents to register a foreign ownership company Sri Lanka:

Identity Proof: Valid ID (copy of passport) of all directors and shareholders.
PAN Card: Copy of PAN Card required if any directors or officeholders are Indian nationals.
Company Constitution: Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association.
Passport Copies: Clear copies of the directors’ passports.
Address Proof: Official documents showing the current addresses of directors and shareholders.
Specimen Signatures: Authorized signatures of all directors or shareholders.

Having these documents ready ensures that business formation Sri Lanka is smooth and hassle-free.

How CSG Advisory Supports Your Corporate Setup Sri Lanka

Choosing the Right Business Structure
CSG Advisory helps you select the most suitable business type- be it Private Limited, Public Limited, Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Branch or Liaison Office, based on liability, compliance and ownership needs.
Reserving Your Company Name
We assist in checking and reserving a unique company name with the Registrar of Companies to ensure it complies with regulations and avoids conflicts with existing businesses.
Preparing Documents and Appointing a Company Secretary
Our company incorporation consultant Sri Lanka draft and notarize all necessary documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, statutory filings and other supporting documents. We also assist in appointing a local resident as the company secretary and completing the secretary’s consent form, which is a mandatory step for company incorporation in Sri Lanka.
Registering a Business Address and Filing for Incorporation
CSG Advisory helps you secure and register a local business address in Sri Lanka and establish a legal and credible presence of your company. We also manage the submission of all required forms and documents to the Registrar of Companies to secure your Certificate of Incorporation efficiently.
Handling Tax Registrations
We facilitate registration with the Inland Revenue Department to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and complete VAT registration, which ensures your business meets all tax obligations. CSG Advisory also handles Customs registration for import and export activities to keep your business fully compliant from day one.
Opening Corporate Bank Accounts
Our team guides you through the corporate bank account setup process to ensure all documentation, including share capital deposit, board resolution and director ID proofs, is correctly submitted.
Obtaining Licenses and Ensuring Compliance
CSG Advisory supports you in securing licenses. SEC registration, BOI approvals, EPF numbers and stamp duty payments to make the company setup service Sri Lanka fast, simple and hassle-free.
Continuous Post-Incorporation Support
Company setup Sri Lanka for foreigners is just the beginning. We stick with you to help you navigate local rules, regulatory updates and compliance requirements, so your business thrives without roadblocks. Think of us as your strategic partner in turning Sri Lankan operations into a streamlined incorporation process.

Why Choose CSG Advisory for Company Incorporation Sri Lanka for Foreigners

Are you looking for a reliable company registration firm Sri Lanka but unsure where to begin? Let the experts at CSG Advisory guide you through the process of offshore company registration Sri Lanka to ensure your business is set up quickly and efficiently. With our expert support, you can establish credibility and build a strong foundation for long-term business growth.

Our business registration agent Sri Lanka possess in-depth knowledge of the country’s corporate regulations, and we focus on fast and efficient processing to help you launch your business without unnecessary delays. Beyond Sri Lanka company incorporation service, we also provide ongoing guidance and support to keep your company compliant and help it thrive.

This means that your dream business in Sri Lanka is just one call away- contact CSG Advisory today for trusted business setup service Sri Lanka and take the first step toward a successful entrepreneurial journey.

Need Company Registration Online Sri Lanka Done Right?

CSG Advisory combines local regulatory knowledge with digital workflows to complete company registration online Sri Lanka remotely.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Company Setup Sri Lanka for Foreigners

Q1) Which sectors are most lucrative for starting a business in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka presents several promising sectors for entrepreneurs looking to establish a company:

● Tourism: Luxury resorts, boutique hotels and travel services.

● Manufacturing & Export: Apparel, tea, spices and other export-oriented goods.

● Healthcare: Private hospitals, clinics and diagnostic laboratories.

● Renewable Energy: Solar, wind and other sustainable energy projects.

● Information Technology: Software development, IT services and tech solutions.

These industries offer strong growth potential and investment opportunities for new businesses in the country.

Q2) What are the main business laws and regulations in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka’s legal system is a mix of common law and civil law principles, which creates a balanced and transparent framework for doing business. The country offers a business-friendly environment that attracts both local and foreign investors. To attract more investment, the government has streamlined the business registration process and introduced initiatives that make company formation Sri Lanka for foreigners easier.

However, the government restricts foreign investment in several industries, including security services, coastal fishing and retail trade. The government of Sri Lanka has imposed these restrictions to protect national interests while still allowing foreign investors to participate in most sectors.

Key laws governing business operations in Sri Lanka include the Companies Act, the Exchange Control Act and the Societies Ordinance. The main authorities overseeing business activities are the Registrar of Companies, the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. These laws and institutions work together to ensure a clear and well regulated framework for setting up and running businesses in the country.

Q3) What are the main types of business structures in Sri Lanka?

If you are looking to set up a business in Sri Lanka, you have several options available depending on your needs:

Private Limited Company

It is a company with limited liability, meaning shareholders are only responsible for the amount they invest. A private limited company does not have a statutory minimum capital requirement, but a reasonable authorized share capital is usually declared. The company must have at least one director and the maximum number of shareholders is 50.

Unlimited Company

Shareholders have unlimited liability, which means they can use their personal assets to cover company debts in case of liquidation.

Offshore Company

A company set up in Sri Lanka, but only for conducting business abroad, with no restrictions on foreign investors.

Company Limited by Guarantee

Ideal for non-profit or promotional activities, where members agree to contribute in case of liquidation.

Public Limited Company

Similar to a private limited company, but with the ability to offer shares to the public. You need at least two shareholders and two directors. This business structure is good for raising funds from a wider pool of investors.

Partnership

A business formed by two or more partners who share profits and liabilities. There is no limit to the liability, and the partnership typically has a set duration.

Branch

An overseas company can establish a branch in Sri Lanka, provided it meets specific requirements, including a minimum inward capital remittance of USD 200,000.

Q4) How do I register a company in Sri Lanka?

Global investors can start a business in Sri Lanka by following a clear and straightforward process. The main steps include: selecting the right business structure, reserving a unique company name, registering with the Registrar of Companies and obtaining any necessary licenses.

If you are unsure about the process or want to make it easier, you can seek expert help from CSG Advisory’s skilled business registration company registration expert Sri Lanka to ensure a smooth and hassle free setup.

Q5) Which industries require special government approval for foreign investment in Sri Lanka?

Foreign investors in Sri Lanka need explicit approval from the relevant government ministry before entering certain sectors. These include highly regulated and sensitive industries such as lotteries, large-scale mining, currency production, defense equipment and explosives, aerospace and military manufacturing, coastal shipping and the production of controlled substances like drugs, poisons and alcohol.

Approval ensures compliance with national security, public safety and regulatory standards. CSG Advisory’s expert company formation consultant Sri Lanka can guide investors through the approval process by helping navigate documentation, ministry requirements and legal compliance. This way, you will easily be able to establish a business in these restricted sectors without the usual paperwork and compliance headaches.

Q6) What is the typical timeframe for registering a foreign investment company Sri Lanka?

Incorporating a foreign investor company Sri Lanka is a step-by-step process, where each stage depends on completing the previous one correctly. If all your documents are prepared and submitted properly, the entire Sri Lanka company registration process can usually be completed in 7-14 working days.

However, delays in providing required paperwork, obtaining legal approvals or seeking professional guidance can extend this timeline (especially if BOI approvals are needed). Therefore, you must carefully prepare and follow the official procedures closely to ensure smooth and timely company registration.

Company registration agent Sri Lanka who work for CSG Advisory accelerate all the processes and handles everything efficiently to help you save time and avoid common delays. Contact us today if you need fast and hassle-free representative office registration Sri Lanka, and let our team manage the entire process for you.

Q7) How can a company setup consultant Sri Lanka support company formation?

A trusted Sri Lanka company formation consultant plays a key role in making the company setup process smooth and efficient. Reliable firms like CSG Advisory provide complete guidance from start to finish. We assist with document preparation, name reservation and compliance with legal requirements.

Our professionals also support post-registration steps and offer relocation guidance when needed. These company formation services in Sri Lanka are especially valuable for international entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the country without being physically present.

Ready to Register in Sri Lanka?

Contact us today to get started with your business registration in Sri Lanka. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Get Free Consultation

Company Registration in Sri Lanka

Streamline Company Incorporation Sri Lanka the Smart Way with CSG Advisory

Sri Lanka Company Setup: Unlock Opportunities Across South Asia and Beyond

Find the Perfect Business Model for Your Investment

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

What this entity can do:

Branch office

What this entity can do:

Representative office

What this entity can do:

Limitations:

Top Benefits When You Register Company Sri Lanka

Affordable and Flexible Business Setup

Easy and Streamlined Registration

Flexible Corporate Structure Options

Protection from Double Taxation

Access to a Dynamic and Multilingual Workforce

Attractive Opportunities for Foreign Investors

Free Trade Agreements

Strong Agriculture and Export Potential

Ready to Kickstart Your Sri Lanka Venture with Zero Hassle

Key Requirements to Start Business in Sri Lanka

Establish a Business Address

Appoint a Local Company Secretary

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Complete Corporate Tax Registration and VAT Registration

Required Documents for Foreign Company Setup Sri Lanka

How CSG Advisory Supports Your Corporate Setup Sri Lanka

Choosing the Right Business Structure

Reserving Your Company Name

Preparing Documents and Appointing a Company Secretary

Registering a Business Address and Filing for Incorporation

Handling Tax Registrations

Opening Corporate Bank Accounts

Obtaining Licenses and Ensuring Compliance

Continuous Post-Incorporation Support

Why Choose CSG Advisory for Company Incorporation Sri Lanka for Foreigners

Need Company Registration Online Sri Lanka Done Right?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1) Which sectors are most lucrative for starting a business in Sri Lanka?

Q2) What are the main business laws and regulations in Sri Lanka?

Q3) What are the main types of business structures in Sri Lanka?

Private Limited Company

Unlimited Company

Offshore Company

Company Limited by Guarantee

Public Limited Company

Partnership

Branch

Q4) How do I register a company in Sri Lanka?

Q5) Which industries require special government approval for foreign investment in Sri Lanka?

Q6) What is the typical timeframe for registering a foreign investment company Sri Lanka?

Q7) How can a company setup consultant Sri Lanka support company formation?

Ready to Register in Sri Lanka?

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