Latest News & Events

The programme to allow Sri Lankan migrant workers to import an electric vehicle launched

Media

The nominated representative of the first recipient of the newly introduced programme to allow Sri Lankan migrant workers to import an electric vehicle after remitting money through official channels received the relevant vehicle import permit from Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara.

 

Daham Perera the authorized representative of the Sri Lankan migrant worker who imported the vehicle received the vehicle import permit from Minister Nanayakkara.

 

The minister on the occasion noted that the decision to allow Sri Lankan migrant workers who remit money through official channels to import an electric vehicle has been much appreciated and inquiries in this regard by workers are increasing on a daily basis.

 

Any Sri Lankan who lives, works or holds dual citizenship in a foreign country are eligible to import an electric vehicle under the scheme. Those sending USD 20,000 or more between May 1, 2022 and December 31, 2022, can obtain a permit to import an electric car. Those who remit USD 3000 or more via official channels from May 1st 2022 to May 2023 are eligible to import an electric motorcycle.

 

The minister emphasized that it is mandatory remittances directed to Sri Lanka are sent through the legal channels such as the banking system to be eligible for this benefit. The minister further said that it was also mandatory that 50 percent of the money sent has been converted into rupees. He said the motorcycle or the car can be imported for a value not exceeding 50 percent of the amount remitted.

 

The minister further said that the relevant application and information can be downloaded from the website of the Ministry of Labour or the Foreign Employment Bureau. He said after producing proof that money has been remitted through official channels and the documents related to the importation of the vehicle, the measures to initiate providing the vehicle import permit can be carried out.

 

The vehicle imported in this way cannot be transferred to a third party until two years after its registration. The minister also said for persons wanting to transfer ownership before two years facilities have been provided to do so by making a payment in USD equivalent to 10 percent of the CIF value of the vehicle.

 

Mr. R.P.A. Wimalaweera the Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment was also present at this occasion.

Leave a Reply