Work Permit woe's

A few weeks ago it became evident that expats will be required to have work permits for Sri Lanka. At first it was assumed, fatal mistake, that it would just be some form filling and easily sorted. However rumours started to circulate and the penalties for not having a work permit were defined as possible arrest and cancellation of visa.

There was also some confusion as it was thought you had to have a work permit by 31st August, none had been issued, then that you had to have applied by 31st August. Then there was a week’s extension but nothing in writing.

In the light of all this VSO asked me and the other vols still working in the North and East to come to Colombo on 31st August. The only lifts I could get were either to Kandy or Galle, I elected for Galle and stayed at Unawatuna for the weekend, arriving in Colombo on Monday 4th.

As the days have passed by it now appears that having an acknowledgement of application for permit will be ok as there is a backlog but that those working in N&E will have to have individual interviews before getting permits.

I was given the opportunity to go back to Ampara but advised that I may have to return in a couple of days. It takes anything from 8-12 hours to get to and from Ampara so have decided to stay in Colombo for a few days.

For vols, be prepared to be messed about things don't always go smoothly and you may end up waiting around. Try and make sure you are somewhere pleasant if you have time to kill, sounds obvious I know but not everyone manages it.