At D.L.&F. De Saram, we recognise that the world of labour and immigration law is constantly evolving. Employers must navigate a complex mix of national regulations, international labour standards, and workforce dynamics. Our role is to simplify that process, helping clients maintain compliant, fair, and effective workplace and immigration practices.

As one of Sri Lanka’s leading employment and labour law firms, we guide businesses through every aspect of employer-employee relationships, from employment contracts in Sri Lanka to termination of employment law, voluntary retirement schemes and worker rights and protections.

In addition, our immigration lawyers in Sri Lanka support both corporations and individuals in managing work permits, visas, permanent residency, and other immigration legal services in Sri Lanka, ensuring a smooth path to compliance and settlement.

Our Expertise in Labour and Immigration Law

What Is the Function of Labour and Employment?

Labour and employment law governs the relationship between employers and employees, setting out the rights, obligations, and protections that apply in the workplace. We assist clients in developing strong internal frameworks that align with the labour law of Sri Lanka and international labour conventions.

Our expertise spans industrial relations law, workplace compliance, employee benefits, and workplace health and safety law.

What Is the Difference Between Labour Force and Employment?

The labour force represents all individuals available for work, while employment refers to those actively engaged in paid work. Understanding this distinction helps employers manage workforce planning, recruitment, and compliance under Sri Lanka’s employment and labour laws

What Is the Function of Employee and Labour Relations?

Our role is to help clients build fair, compliant, and productive relationships with employees, and in certain cases – trade unions. We offer legal support for:

• Drafting and reviewing employment contracts in Sri Lanka
• Managing trade unions in Sri Lanka and collective bargaining
• Handling disciplinary proceedings and internal investigations
• Advising on termination of employment law and redundancy processes
• Conducting dispute resolution employment and arbitration
• Restructuring, including voluntary retirement schemes and related taxes

How to File a Complaint Against Labour?

Employees or employers facing disputes may file complaints with the Labour Department (Commissioner General of Labour) of Sri Lanka. Our team assists in preparing documentation, representing clients in hearings, and negotiating settlements to achieve efficient, non-disruptive outcomes.

What Are the Labour Rules in Sri Lanka?

Labour rules in Sri Lanka are governed by an extensive number of laws including but not limited to the Wages Board Ordinance, Shop and Office Employees Act, and Industrial Disputes Act. These laws protect employee rights and ensure fair labour practices. We help employers align their policies with these frameworks and with international labour standards to maintain compliance and prevent disputes.

Comprehensive Legal Services in Labour and Immigration

Employment Law Services

Our employment practice covers the full range of workplace legal matters, including:

• Employment contracts in Sri Lanka: drafting and review
• Employee remuneration and benefits planning
• Termination of employment law and redundancy management
• Trade unions of Sri Lanka and collective agreements
• Workplace health and safety law compliance
• Dispute resolution employment and arbitration
• Restructuring, including down sizing

Immigration Law Services

As trusted immigration lawyers in Sri Lanka, we offer extensive support for both corporate and individual clients:

• Sri Lankan visa application and processing
• Work permits in Sri Lanka & immigration for foreign employees
• Permanent resident permits in Sri Lanka and citizenship law of Sri Lanka
• Family-based immigration in Sri Lanka and employment-based immigration in Sri Lanka
• Immigration compliance in Sri Lanka for businesses hiring foreign talent
• Advising on prevention of illegal immigration in Sri Lanka and changes in immigration policy in Sri Lanka

We understand the importance of a diverse and skilled workforce. Our goal is to help clients meet their needs while ensuring full compliance with Sri Lanka immigration regulations and the Immigrants and Emigrants Act Sri Lanka.

FAQs