Mutual agreement on recognising driving licences between Sri Lanka and Italy has come into effect

The long-awaited mutual recognition agreement on driving licences between Sri Lanka and Italy has come into effect from April, offering a permanent solution to longstanding licensing issues faced by Sri Lankans residing in Italy, Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath announced.

In a statement, the Minister said the agreement—finalised following sustained diplomatic engagement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Transport and Highways—has now fulfilled all technical requirements for implementation.

Under the arrangement, Sri Lankan nationals who have resided in Italy for at least six years are eligible to convert their Sri Lankan driving licences into Italian licences without the need to sit written or practical examinations.

Minister Herath noted that the initiative has been widely welcomed by the Sri Lankan expatriate community in Italy, adding that it is expected to enhance employment prospects and further strengthen their contribution as a productive diaspora.