The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced an online authentication process for birth, marriage, and death certificates, in collaboration with the Registrar General’s Department. The new system was officially launched at a ceremony held on 2 September 2024.
Sri Lankan citizens can now apply for the authentication of these certificates through the Consular Affairs Division’s online platform. Authenticated documents will be sent via email, removing the need for in-person visits for application or collection, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry emphasized that the online authentication of birth, marriage, and death certificates, which constitutes about 55 percent of the documents authenticated daily by the Consular Affairs Division, represents a major advancement in the digitalization process.
To further enhance its online services, the Ministry has integrated its Electronic Document Authentication System (e-DAS) with key government authorities and entities, including local universities, the Sri Lanka Medical Council, Sri Lanka Police, the Department of Motor Traffic, TVEC, the Department of the Registrar of Companies, the British Council, and trade chambers.
The procedures for online authentication are as follows:
- Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ official website and submit an application through the online portal: https://mfa.gov.lk/online-consular-services/
- After submission, applicants will receive a link for payment. Fees for certificate generation and authentication should be paid online through this link.
- Once the payment is completed, the authenticated document (customer copy) will be emailed to the applicant. This copy must be submitted to relevant foreign missions as needed.