VAT

The Hook: A New Era for VAT For decades, VAT compliance in Sri Lanka has been defined by the tedious manual entry of invoice data—a process ripe for human error and administrative friction. Finance teams have historically operated in a “lag” state, reconciling records weeks after transactions occurred. This traditional model is now being dismantled….

The Commissioner General of Inland Revenue has issued a new directive outlining updated formatting and specifications for Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices. Published in the Gazette Extraordinary No. 2481/22 on March 27, 2026, these new rules aim to standardize tax documentation across Sri Lanka. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the new requirements and how…

On April 8, 2026, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) issued a critical notice (PN/VAT/2026-04/1) to all VAT-registered persons detailing a major shift in tax policy for the textile and garment industry. The directive outlines a synchronized change to both the Value Added Tax (VAT) and the CESS levy concerning the importation and domestic supply of…

The Department of Inland Revenue has issued a critical update regarding Value Added Tax (VAT) administration. Per Gazette Extraordinary No. 2463/05, dated November 17, 2025, the Commissioner General of Inland Revenue (CGIR) has specified a mandatory format and specification for Tax Invoices. Subsequently, the Department of Inland Revenue has officially announced a postponement of the…

A tax invoice is an essential document in the administration of Value Added Tax (VAT) in Sri Lanka. It serves as evidence of a taxable transaction between a VAT-registered supplier and customer. Understanding the key elements of a tax invoice and the regulations surrounding its issuance is crucial for compliance with Sri Lankan tax laws….

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) of Sri Lanka has issued a critical notice for VAT registered persons who have faced difficulties in obtaining Credit Vouchers for the clearance of deferred VAT at Customs. This issue has primarily arisen due to the issuance of Estimated Assessments on Value Added Tax (VAT) Returns. To address this, the…

The circular, identified as Circular No. SEC/2024/E/01 and dated January 4, 2023, addresses suppliers involved in the production of tea, rubber, and coconut products. The primary focus of the circular is on the registration process under the Value Added Tax (VAT) and the Simplified Value Added Tax Scheme. The circular outlines the specific industries that…

Note: This form to be submitted along with supporting documents (If any) to the Help Desk at the nearest IRD branch.

The Bill to amend the VAT Act was published on August 11, 2023, and the EY Tax Alert dated September 11, 2023, highlighted the proposed changes based on this Bill. Subsequently, during its passage through Parliament, a few significant changes were made, and the Bill was finally passed in Parliament on December 11, 2023, with…

Minister of Finance has published a gazette notification on VAT rate change on the following. Order declares that : The Value Added Tax shall be charged ; On import of goods set out in the H. S. Code and description specified in Column I and II of Schedule of the Extraordinary Gazette Notification No. 2095/20…

Department of Inland Revenue has uploaded updated Schedules 6 & 7 for Exports. Download Schedule 06 – Goods Export Schedule Download Schedule 07 – Service Export Schedule