Sri Lanka has a formal route back for people who lost their citizenship by naturalising elsewhere: resumption under section 19(2) of the Citizenship Act. It is an application rather than an automatic right, and the documentary standard is exact.
Quick facts
The embassy is blunt about completeness: all details requested must be filled in, and incomplete applications will be rejected. Combined with the rule that fees are not refunded, that makes care worthwhile.
What the file requires
| Item | Form accepted | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Birth certificate | Original or ministry-certified copy | Certified in Colombo |
| Citizenship by registration | The relevant certificate | Or a certified copy |
| Marriage certificate | Original or certified copy | If married |
| Affidavit | Sworn before an honorary consul or notary | Unless filed in person |
| Personal particulars form | Block capitals | Complete or rejected |
Once resumption is granted, the embassy advises obtaining a new Sri Lankan national identity card through the registration department, which is what makes the restored citizenship usable on the ground.
How to apply
- Gather your original birth certificate, or arrange a ministry-certified copy in Colombo.
- Add the marriage certificate in the same form if you are married.
- Complete the personal particulars form in block capitals, in full.
- Swear the supporting affidavit before an honorary consul or a notary public.
- Submit with the fee by money order or certified check.
- Apply for the national identity card and the passport once the grant is made.
Required documents
- Original birth certificate or ministry-certified copy.
- Registration certificate where you are a citizen by registration.
- Marriage certificate, original or certified copy.
- Sworn affidavit.
- Completed personal particulars form.
- Money order or certified check for the fee.
Where to apply
At the consular division of the embassy in Washington, by post or in person.
No offices currently listed.
Additional notes
It restores real rights
Dual citizenship removes the visa requirement and restores the ability to hold property and reside without permission, which is why the file is worth completing properly.
Affidavits can be sworn locally
An honorary consul or any notary public will do, which saves a trip to Washington for people on the far side of the country.
Children
Minor children of an applicant have their own position within these files. Ask about them at the outset rather than afterwards.
False declarations are an offence
The embassy warns that false declarations about citizenship are punishable and that fees are not refunded in those circumstances.