Sri Lanka makes a valid TIN compulsory for bank accounts, land and vehicle registration
31 October 2026
From 1 November, people in Sri Lanka must show a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) for a set of key transactions, the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has said. The list covers opening a bank or financial institution account, getting a credit card, registering a business, registering land or title to land, building plan approval, registering a motor vehicle and renewing its licence. When shares of a company incorporated in Sri Lanka change hands, both buyer and seller need a TIN. The rule is issued under the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act, No. 11 of 2026. A TIN is already mandatory for resident individuals aged 18 or above. A printout of the IRD e-Services check showing the NIC and TIN will be accepted in place of the certificate.
In plain words
TIN Taxpayer Identification Number — A unique number the tax department gives each taxpayer.
IRD Inland Revenue Department — Sri Lanka's department that collects income and other direct taxes.
NIC National Identity Card — Sri Lanka's national identity card number.