Traveling to Sri Lanka? Whether you’re here for the golden beaches, lush tea plantations, or world-famous cuisine, two things can make your trip even better:
✅ Staying connected with an e-SIM
✅ Saving money with Sri Lanka’s Tourist VAT Refund Scheme
Here’s how to do both, easily and affordably.
🌐 What is an e-SIM and Why Tourists Love It?
An e-SIM is a virtual SIM card built into your phone. No more swapping physical SIMs or worrying about losing your original SIM card. You can activate a Sri Lankan data plan instantly, even before landing.
✅ Benefits of e-SIM for Sri Lanka:
- No passport or physical store needed
- Instant activation
- Multiple data packages for short or long stays
- Keep your WhatsApp and home number active
📶 Best e-SIM Providers & Packages in Sri Lanka (2025)
1. Mobitel eSIM (SLT-Mobitel)
- Package: 15GB for USD 10 (valid for 14 days)
- Network: Nationwide 4G+ coverage
- Website: mobitel.lk
2. Dialog eSIM
- Package: 20GB for USD 12 (valid for 30 days)
- Network: Sri Lanka’s largest coverage
- Website: dialog.lk
3. Airalo (International eSIM Platform)
- Sri Lanka package: 10GB for USD 9 (valid for 15 days)
- Easy to install from anywhere before arrival
- App: Airalo on Android/iOS
💡 How to Activate Your e-SIM in Sri Lanka
- Check if your phone supports e-SIM (iPhone XS or newer, Pixel 3+, Samsung S20+)
- Choose a provider (e.g., Dialog, Mobitel, Airalo)
- Scan the QR code or install via app
- Turn on data roaming for the eSIM line
- Start using instantly!
🛍️ Tax-Free Shopping in Sri Lanka: Claim Your VAT Refund
Did you know that Sri Lanka refunds VAT (Value Added Tax) to tourists when you shop at eligible stores?
This is called the Tourist VAT Refund Scheme (TVRS) — and it’s a great way to save up to 18% on your shopping expenses!
🎁 What Is Eligible for VAT Refund?
✅ Clothing & fashion
✅ Gemstones & jewelry
✅ Tea, souvenirs, handicrafts
✅ Electronics (from authorized stores)
Not eligible:
- Hotel charges, food, or drinks
- Online purchases
- Items used in Sri Lanka
- Services (e.g., tours, massages)
📝 Requirements to Claim VAT Refund
To qualify, you must:
- Be a non-resident foreign tourist on a visitor visa
- Spend at least LKR 50,000 (excl. VAT) in a single day from the same authorized retailer
- Ask for a Tourist VAT Refund Invoice (TVRI) from the shop
- Carry your goods in hand or checked luggage
- Visit the TVRS Counter at Bandaranaike International Airport before departure
🧾 How to Make Your Claim (Step-by-Step)
- Shop at VAT-eligible stores (look for the TVRS logo)
- Keep your invoices and passport
- Ask the shop for a TVRI
- Head to the TVRS counter at the airport
- Show your documents + goods for inspection
- Get your refund in cash or card
📱 Want Help With the Process?
We offer two affordable plans:
| Plan | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 📨 Self-Service | We email you a full guide, checklist, and calculator | USD 5 |
| 📲 Full Support | Personal WhatsApp assistance during your trip | USD 10 |
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