It is not mandatory for Sri Lankans studying abroad and dual citizens to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN), said the Deputy Commissioner General of the Inland Revenue Department – Mr. B.K. Saman Shantha.
He said this during a press conference held at the Department of Government Information.

However, he said that if a person in a foreign country earns any income from Sri Lanka (bank account interest income, rental income or any other form of income) that exceeds the annual tax exemption limit of Rs. 1.2 million, they should definitely get the TIN number.

He said that the public is keen to obtain the TIN and the IRD is going to network computers with the Department of Motor Traffic to get information related to vehicle registration.Noting that IRD computer systems have also been networked with those at Sri Lanka Customs, Mr. Saman Shantha said that this gives the IRD access to all details related to imports and exports.

Linking with all state institutions will help authorities to identify tax evaders, he added.