Long queues have been reported at Inland Revenue Department (IRD) offices across Sri Lanka as members of the public rush to obtain Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN) following the introduction of new mandatory requirements.
Meanwhile, several members of the public have complained of difficulties accessing the department’s online registration system, with reports of the website becoming unresponsive and experiencing disruptions amid increased demand.
The surge in applications comes after the government made TIN certificates mandatory for eight types of financial, commercial and administrative transactions from November 1, 2026.
Under the new regulations, a valid TIN is required for:
* Opening bank accounts or accounts at financial institutions.
* Obtaining approval for building plans.
* Registering motor vehicles.
* Renewing motor vehicle revenue licences.
* Registering land or land ownership.
* Registering businesses.
* Transferring shares in Sri Lankan companies.
* Obtaining credit cards.
The requirements were introduced under the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act, No. 11 of 2026, with relevant institutions instructed to verify TIN details before processing these transactions.
The Inland Revenue Department has also clarified that while TIN registration is mandatory for resident individuals aged 18 and above, obtaining a TIN does not automatically mean an individual must pay income tax.
Personal income tax generally applies to individuals whose annual taxable income exceeds Rs. 1.8 million.
The public can apply for a TIN through the Inland Revenue Department’s official website, www.ird.gov.lk.
The department has yet to confirm whether the reported online disruptions are directly linked to the increased number of applicants. (Newswire)
