- 3
Account types: savings, current, term
- 1
Inward remittance needed to open one
- USD25k
Deposit for dual citizenship, category E
Who can open a PFCA?
Directions No. 4 of 2021 (PDF)Under the Foreign Exchange Act No. 12 of 2017.
- Sri Lankan nationals, including minors
- People of Sri Lankan origin living abroad
- Foreign nationals living in Sri Lanka
- Foreign nationals visiting, or planning to visit
- Executors of an estate
Dual citizens can open one whether or not they live in Sri Lanka.
What kind of account?
dfe.lk- Savings
- Current
No overdraft.
- Term deposit
- Joint accounts
Allowed, except for visitors.
How do I open one?
cbsl.gov.lk- Pick a licensed bank
Any bank licensed by the Central Bank to deal in foreign currency.
- Fund it from abroad
Any inward remittance through banking channels opens the account.
- Show your documents
Each bank sets its own identity and address checks.
Leaving Sri Lanka for good instead? The Department of Foreign Exchange has separate rules for emigrants.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between NRFC, RFC and PFCA?
NRFC and RFC are older account names that still appear on some forms. Current Central Bank directions cover personal foreign currency accounts as a PFCA.
Can a foreigner open a foreign currency account in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Foreign nationals living in Sri Lanka, or visiting or planning to visit, can open a PFCA.
Can I open a joint account?
Yes, joint accounts are allowed, but not for visitors.
Can I use a PFCA for dual citizenship?
A deposit of USD 25,000 held for three years in a foreign currency account is one of the ways to qualify, category E.
Learn more on official sites
The pages this guide is based on.