FAQ's

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conveyancing & Real Estate (Notarial Services)

1. What is conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of property from one party to another. It involves preparing and verifying legal documents, conducting title searches, and registering the property at the Land Registry.
2. Why do I need a Notary Public for property transactions in Sri Lanka?
Under Sri Lankan law, all property transfers, gifts, mortgages, and leases must be executed before a Notary Public and registered at the relevant Land Registry. A Notary ensures the transaction is legally valid and protects both parties’ interests.
3. What documents are required for a property transfer?
Typically, you’ll need the original deed, survey plan, valuation report, identification documents of buyer and seller, and any prior title deeds. Your notary will review and verify these before preparing the new deed.
4. How long does the conveyancing process take?
It depends on the complexity of the transaction and the property’s title history. On average, a straightforward transfer can be completed within 2–4 weeks after all documents are submitted.
5. What is a title search, and why is it important?
A title search examines past deeds and land records to confirm legal ownership and ensure the property is free from encumbrances, disputes, or claims. It’s one of the most critical steps in preventing future legal issues.
6. Can foreigners buy property in Sri Lanka?
Foreign individuals and companies generally cannot purchase freehold land in Sri Lanka but may lease property for up to 99 years or acquire condominiums above the 4th floor under certain conditions. Our firm can guide you on the latest regulations and investment structures.
7. What are stamp duty and registration fees?
Stamp duty is a government tax based on the property’s value, typically paid by the buyer at the time of transfer. Registration fees are additional charges for recording the deed at the Land Registry. Your notary will calculate and handle these payments on your behalf.
8. Do you handle property sales, gifts, and mortgages?
Yes. PK Law Chamber prepares and executes all types of property-related deeds, including sale, gift, mortgage, lease, and partition deeds, ensuring they comply with current laws and registration requirements.
9. Can you assist with land disputes or boundary issues?
Absolutely. Our legal team provides advice and representation for property disputes, boundary clarifications, and land partition matters.
10. How can I book an appointment with your notarial team?
You can contact PK Law Chamber via phone, email, or through our website’s appointment form. Our team will schedule a consultation and guide you through the required documents and next steps.

Company Registration in Sri Lanka

1. What types of companies can be registered in Sri Lanka?
The most common types are Private Limited Companies (Pvt Ltd), Public Limited Companies (PLC) , and Guarantee Companies (usually for non-profits). Most business owners choose a Private Limited Company due to flexibility and limited liability.
2. How long does it take to register a company in Sri Lanka?
On average, registration takes 3–5 working days once all required documents are submitted and the proposed company name is approved by the Registrar of Companies.
3. What documents are needed to register a company?
You’ll need:
  • Approved company name (name reservation confirmation)
  • Articles of Association
  • Form 1 (Company Incorporation Application)
  • Form 18 (Consent and details of Directors)
  • Form 19 (Consent and details of Shareholders)
  • Copies of NICs or Passports of directors and shareholders
4. Can foreigners register a company in Sri Lanka?
Yes, foreign individuals and entities can register a company. However, some sectors have restrictions on foreign ownership. We guide clients through the approval process with the Board of Investment (BOI) or Registrar of Companies (ROC), depending on the business activity.
5. What is the minimum number of directors and shareholders required?
A Private Limited Company must have at least one director and one shareholder. Both can be the same person, and there is no maximum limit under the Companies Act.
6. Do I need a company secretary?
Yes. Every company in Sri Lanka must appoint a qualified Company Secretary before registration. The secretary ensures the company complies with legal and filing requirements.
7. What are the annual compliance requirements?
Companies must file Annual Returns with the Registrar of Companies, maintain updated financial records, and hold Annual General Meetings (AGMs). PK Law Chamber can manage all ongoing compliance for you.
8. What are the main costs involved in registration?
Costs include the name approval fee, registration fee, stamp duty, and professional service fees. We provide a full quotation with a breakdown before beginning the process.
9. Can PK Law Chamber handle the entire registration process?
Yes. We handle everything from name reservation to document drafting, submission, and obtaining your Certificate of Incorporation—saving you time and ensuring accuracy.
10. What happens after my company is registered?
Once registered, you’ll receive the Certificate of Incorporation. You can then open a company bank account, register for taxes (TIN/VAT if required), and begin operations legally.

Item Discussion (Legal Consultation) in Sri Lanka

1. What does “Item Discussion” mean in legal practice?
In Sri Lanka, an Item Discussion refers to a professional legal consultation where a client discusses a specific legal issue, document, or transaction with an attorney or notary to obtain expert advice or clarification.
2. When should I request an Item Discussion?
You should request one whenever you need legal clarity before taking action — such as signing a contract, buying property, resolving a dispute, or starting a business. It helps you understand your legal position and avoid future problems.
3. How is an Item Discussion different from general advice?
General advice is broad and informal. An Item Discussion is formal, documented, and issue-specific. The lawyer reviews relevant documents, applies Sri Lankan law, and provides a clear legal opinion or written report if required.
4. What documents should I bring for an Item Discussion?
Bring all related materials: agreements, deeds, letters, contracts, identification documents, or court notices. The more complete the information, the more accurate the legal advice.
5. How long does an Item Discussion take?
Most consultations take 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the issue. Some matters may require follow-up sessions or written opinions.
6. Can I book an online discussion?
Yes. PK Law Chamber offers in-person and online Item Discussions via video call for clients based in Sri Lanka or abroad.
7. How are Item Discussion fees calculated?
Fees depend on the subject matter and whether you require a verbal or written legal opinion. We provide a clear fee structure before the consultation.
8. Will the advice given be confidential?
Yes. All discussions and documents shared with PK Law Chamber are treated as strictly confidential, in accordance with professional legal ethics and Sri Lankan law.
9. Can I get a written legal opinion after the discussion?
Yes. Upon request, we can issue a formal written legal opinion summarizing the advice, applicable laws, and recommended actions.
10. How can I schedule an Item Discussion with PK Law Chamber?
You can contact us through our website, phone, or email to schedule an appointment. Once your request is confirmed, our team will guide you on preparation and available consultation times.

Affiliates and Legal Partnerships in Sri Lanka

1. What does “Affiliates” mean in the context of PK Law Chamber?
Affiliates are partner law firms, consultants, or professional organizations that collaborate with PK Law Chamber to provide clients with a wider range of legal and advisory services both locally and internationally.
2. Why does PK Law Chamber work with affiliates?
Affiliations allow us to extend our expertise across multiple jurisdictions and industries, ensuring clients receive complete legal solutions — from corporate and tax advice to property, immigration, and notarial services.
3. Are your affiliates based only in Sri Lanka?
No. We maintain professional relationships with regional and international legal partners, allowing clients to manage cross-border matters such as foreign investments, business expansions, and legal compliance abroad.
4. How does PK Law Chamber ensure the quality of its affiliate network?
All affiliates are carefully vetted based on professional qualifications, ethical standards, and experience. We work only with firms and professionals who share our commitment to legal accuracy, confidentiality, and client trust.
5. Can clients directly engage with an affiliate through PK Law Chamber?
Yes. Clients can request introductions or joint consultations. We coordinate with our affiliates on your behalf to ensure the process is efficient and legally consistent under Sri Lankan law.
6. What types of affiliate services are available?
Our affiliates assist with foreign company registration, BOI approvals, immigration law, intellectual property, taxation, dispute resolution, and other specialized legal or professional matters.
7. Does PK Law Chamber remain involved once a client is referred to an affiliate?
Yes. We maintain oversight and coordination throughout the process to ensure smooth communication and that your interests remain protected from start to finish.
8. Are affiliate services charged separately?
Depending on the engagement, affiliate services may be billed separately or included within a combined service package. We clarify all costs in writing before any work begins.
9. Are affiliate collaborations recognized under Sri Lankan law?
Yes. Professional collaborations and partnerships are fully compliant with the Attorneys-at-Law (Sri Lanka) and Notaries Ordinance and related regulations governing professional conduct and representation.
10. How can I become an affiliate of PK Law Chamber?
Qualified law firms, consultants, or professionals interested in partnership can contact us directly through the Affiliates Inquiry Form on our website. We review all proposals individually to ensure mutual professional compatibility.