What licenses are required to operate a hotel in Sri Lanka?

Operational hospitality properties require registration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), local municipal trade license, public health inspection clearance, fire safety certificate, and liquor licensing from the Department of Excise if serving alcohol.

Can foreign investors receive Board of Investment (BOI) incentives for hotel projects?

Yes. Qualified tourism and hospitality projects with qualifying foreign direct investment (FDI) thresholds can obtain BOI status, which provides duty exemptions on capital imports, tax concessions, and streamlined land leasing terms.