Working in Sri Lanka
General Information
Number of occupational therapists in Sri Lanka
225
In Sri Lanka , the term "occupational therapist" is also referred to as
No
Main language(s) spoken in Sri Lanka
Tamil, English, Sinhala
Other languages commonly spoken in Sri Lanka
Malayalam, Divehi
Registration
Occupational therapists are required to register with a federal/national organisation to practice
Not Required
But as Sri Lanka Society of Occupational Therapists we request them to register with our organisation.
Occupational therapists are required to register with a state/regional organisation to practice
Required
Sri Lanka Medical Council, No 31 Norris Canal Road, Colombo, 01000
It is compulsory to join the Sri Lanka Society of Occupational Therapists in order to practice as an occupational therapist
No
Practicing Requirements
Graduation from a WFOT approved programme is required to register to practice
No
The Sri Lanka Medical Council independently assesses the requirements to register to practice as an occupational therapist in Sri Lanka. Their criteria doesn't include anything about the WFOT approval or SLSOT membership.
Language(s) that are required for occupational therapists to practice
English, Sinhala, Tamil
No restrictions based on language for practice. All the state service employees should pass the second language examination (Sinhala for Tamil speakers or vice versa) once they are appointed to the state service.
Additional requirements for occupational therapists to practice
Should be registered with the Sri Lanka Medical Council, which is the medical regulatory body for all medical practitioners.
Employment Opportunities
Occupational therapy is recognised as a shortage occupation
Yes
Sri Lanka is facing a critical shortage of occupational therapists (OTs), creating significant challenges for individuals in need of rehabilitation and support services. The current workforce is inadequate to meet the increasing demand for occupational therapy across the country.
While career opportunities in the government sector remain limited due to a lack of approved positions, the private sector offers greater potential for employment. A new cohort of occupational therapists is expected to graduate by late 2026 through the recently established BSc degree program.
While career opportunities in the government sector remain limited due to a lack of approved positions, the private sector offers greater potential for employment. A new cohort of occupational therapists is expected to graduate by late 2026 through the recently established BSc degree program.
Sources of information for occupational therapist employment opportunities
Deputy Director General (Administration) II
Ministry of Health
Suwasiripaya No. 385,
Rev. Baddegama Wimalawansa Thero Mawatha.
Colombo 10, Sri Lanka
Phone: 0112674967
Email: [email protected]
Ministry of Health
Suwasiripaya No. 385,
Rev. Baddegama Wimalawansa Thero Mawatha.
Colombo 10, Sri Lanka
Phone: 0112674967
Email: [email protected]
Immigration
Immigration regulations or visa requirements to practice
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapy assistants exist in Sri Lanka
No
Disclaimer: This information was provided by Sri Lanka Society of Occupational Therapists and was last updated on 2nd April 2025. WFOT is not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or changes in the information provided. This information is intended as a guide and should be independently verified before making any decisions.
Education Programmes
WFOT Approved Programmes in Sri Lanka
1