Sri Lanka Arrival Procedures

We have all the information you need to know for your trip, from helping with visa queries to walking you through a placement induction on your first day in Sri Lanka. Our hassle-free approach means you can concentrate on what really matters, making a difference at your placement.

Arrival airport and pickup in Sri Lanka

When you arrive at Colombo Airport (CMB), you will be met by a friendly Projects Abroad driver. They’ll be holding a Projects Abroad sign.

It takes about an hour to travel from the airport to the city, where our offices are based. Some of you will be based further away from Colombo, so the drive will be longer. Either way, you’ll be taken straight to your accommodation, where you can relax and settle in.

The costs for transport are included in your fee.

Booking your flights to Sri Lanka

Searching for flights online is easier than ever, but it can still be a time-consuming, overwhelming, and frustrating process. If you need support, our staff have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We’ll let you know which airport you’ll be flying to and recommend the best way to get there.

We can advise you on booking the best return flights, ensuring you have the safest, most convenient, and most cost-effective flight options, no matter how complex your travel plans are.

Find out more about the flight booking process.

Visas requirements for your volunteer project or internship in Sri Lanka

One of the perks of volunteering with us is the visa guidance we give you. We have a dedicated visa team who have up-to-date information on visa requirements for all of our destinations around the world. You can get in touch with us if you have any visa queries, big or small, and we will talk you through the process. Once you apply, you’ll also get a link to your own MyProjectsAbroad webpage, which will include all the necessary visa information.

Your induction and orientation in Sri Lanka

Our local staff will be there to provide plenty of support and help you settle in to your new home. You’ll be given a tour of the surrounding area, and taken to buy a local sim card or exchange money. Our staff will also explain how to use the public transport.

You’ll get to visit our local offices, and find out more about how our projects in Sri Lanka are run. We will also give you an induction pack, which contains useful information such as maps and contact details.

Your first day at your volunteer or internship placement in Sri Lanka

We ensure that you receive plenty of guidance so that you are fully prepared for your volunteer project. On your first day, you’ll receive an introduction to your new placement. Our staff will also accompany you from your accommodation to your work placement, so that you learn the way.

You’ll be shown around to see how things are run, and get to meet the different people you’ll be working with. It’s only on your second day that your project work begins.

Support, safety, and backup

Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.

Find out more about safety and backup.