LankaGuide

Urgent Passport Service Sri Lanka 2026

~9 min read

Sri Lanka's urgent passport service can issue passports the same day (or within 1–2 working days). This guide explains where it's available, current fees, key timing rules (submit before 10 AM), and the step-by-step process to avoid rejection.

Same-Day Passport Service

Battaramulla Head Office + Passport Office in Jaffna

Not available at other regional offices or DS units.

Adults: Rs. 20,000 | Children: Rs. 9,000

Double / triple the normal fee.

Submit before 10 AM for same day

Application hours are typically 7 AM – 2 PM.

Urgent Service Fees (2026)

CategoryNormal feeUrgent feeExtra cost
Adults (16+)Rs. 10,000Rs. 20,000+Rs. 10,000
Children (<16)Rs. 3,000Rs. 9,000+Rs. 6,000

Worth it? Urgent service usually makes sense only if you need the passport within 1–2 days. Normal service takes ~8–12 weeks — plan ahead to save money.

Critical Requirements

1. Limited locations

Urgent service is available at the Department of Immigration, "Suhurupaya" in Battaramulla, and the Passport Office in Jaffna. It is not offered at other regional offices or DS units.

2. Submit before 10 AM

For same-day collection, submit by 10:00 AM. After 10 AM, expect 1–2 working days. Application hours are typically 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

3. All documents must be complete

Missing documents are not accepted — applications can be rejected if incomplete.

4. A reason may be required

Common acceptable reasons include: imminent travel, visa appointment, medical emergency, or job requirement.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. 1

    Book an appointment online

    Use the Immigration eServices appointment portal and select the one-day service appointment for your chosen location (Battaramulla or Jaffna).

    • ✓ Choose the one-day service option for Battaramulla or Jaffna (as shown in the portal)
    • ✓ Pick the earliest available date
    • ✓ Print your confirmation slip

    Portal: https://eservices.immigration.gov.lk/MakeAppointments

  2. 2

    Gather all documents

    • • Birth certificate (original)
    • • NIC (original + copy)
    • • Current passport (if renewing)
    • • Application form K-35A
    • • Proof of urgency (ticket, visa letter, etc.)

    See also documents required.

  3. 3

    Arrive early (before 10 AM)

    Go to the location you booked: Battaramulla Head Office ("Suhurupaya") or the Passport Office in Jaffna. Bring all originals + photocopies + your appointment confirmation.

  4. 4

    Submit and pay

    Pay the urgent fee at the counter after submitting your documents.

    Adults

    Rs. 20,000

    Children

    Rs. 9,000

  5. 5

    Collect

    If submitted before 10 AM, collection is usually the same day (often by 4–5 PM). If submitted after 10 AM, expect 1–2 working days.

Valid Reasons for Urgent Service

Usually accepted

  • • Flight ticket within 72 hours
  • • Visa interview appointment
  • • Medical emergency abroad
  • • Job requirement letter
  • • Emergency family visit

Not accepted

  • • "Forgot to apply earlier"
  • • "Planning to travel someday"
  • • No specific reason
  • • Lost passports (urgent is usually not available — see lost passport replacement)

Important Notes

Limited appointments

Book as early as you can. Same-day walk-ins are not guaranteed.

Service hours can change

Published service hours and procedures sometimes change (for example, updates were announced in 2025). Always double-check before you travel.

Not for lost passports

Lost passport replacement is normally processed like a new passport. See the lost/stolen passport guide.

Pro tips to save money

  • ✓ Apply ~6 months before travel with normal processing
  • ✓ Check your passport expiry once a year
  • ✓ Don't wait until an emergency
  • ✓ Many countries require 6 months validity

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get urgent service at regional offices?
No. Urgent / same-day service is only available at the Head Office in Battaramulla and the Passport Office in Jaffna. Other regional offices and DS units provide normal processing only.
Is Rs. 20,000 worth it?
Only if you need a passport within 1–2 days (e.g., immediate travel or visa deadlines). If you have a few months, normal service saves you money.
What if I arrive after 10 AM?
You may still be accepted during application hours, but you typically won’t get same-day collection. Expect 1–2 working days instead.
Do I need proof of urgency?
Usually yes. Bring proof such as a flight ticket, visa appointment letter, medical emergency documents, or a job requirement letter. Officers may request it.

Disclaimer

Service hours, appointment availability, and fees can change. Always verify the latest instructions on official Immigration channels before visiting. Last updated: February 24, 2026.