Updated weekly by GDP Consultants. Last updated: 20 June 2026.
Stay on top of Sri Lanka’s tax changes without digging through IRD circulars yourself. Each week we summarise the latest gazette notices, IRD circulars, and deadlines that actually affect individuals and businesses.
This Week’s Key Updates
VAT on Digital Services (Nonresidents) Postponed Again — Now July 1, 2026
The IRD has postponed implementation of VAT on cross-border digital services provided by nonresidents for a third time, pushing the start date from April 1, 2026 to July 1, 2026. If you sell digital services into Sri Lanka from abroad, your compliance deadline has moved again — but plan as though it will hold this time.
New VAT Tax Invoice Format Now in Effect
Gazette No. 2463/05 introduced a new mandatory format and specification for VAT tax invoices, effective from 1 January 2026. Every VAT-registered business should confirm their invoicing system or POS software has been updated to match — invoices in the old format may be rejected for input VAT claims.
IRD Field Program to Broaden the Tax Base
The IRD has launched an active field program checking business registration status, accuracy of tax files, and identifying unregistered taxpayers and businesses. If you’ve been operating without proper IRD registration, this is the moment to get compliant before an officer visits rather than after.
Social Security Contribution Levy (Amendment) Act, No. 10 of 2026
An amendment to the SSCL Act was passed in 2026. Businesses with turnover near the SSCL threshold should review whether the amendment changes their liability or registration position.
Upcoming Deadlines to Watch
- Quarterly WHT/AIT statement and payment deadlines — confirm your specific due date based on your Year of Assessment quarter.
- Final tax payment for the prior Year of Assessment — typically due 30 September; mark your calendar early.
- VAT returns — due monthly/quarterly depending on registration category.
Deadlines vary by taxpayer category. Talk to our team to confirm which apply to you.
Why This Matters
Tax law in Sri Lanka changes faster than most businesses can track. Missing a gazette notice or circular update can mean a rejected VAT claim, a missed deadline, or an unnecessary penalty. This page exists so you don’t have to monitor the IRD website yourself — GDP Consultants does it for you.
Need help applying any of this to your business? Book a consultation with our team.