The Dream Care Home programme which invites senior citizens from other countries to spend their retirement in Sri Lanka, launched by the Department of Immigration and Emigration was gaining popularity, Controller of Immigration and Emigration B. P. Abeykoon told The Island yesterday (12).

Under this scheme foreign nationals who wish to remain on a prolonged stay in the country, could send their applications to the Controller of Immigration after making a fixed deposit of US$ 15,000 and a monthly remittance of US$ 1,500 or equivalent in foreign currency. In addition, other members of the family also could enjoy the benefit of a long term stay by remitting US$ 750 or equivalent to a approved bank in Sri Lanka, The monthly remittances could be made to a savings or current account, he noted.

The scheme was open to foreign nationals over 55 years of age and the applicant will be allowed to bring the spouse and single children under 18 years. Those who stay in the country under the scheme should have a medical insurance cover and police clearance from the country of domicile that they were not involved in criminal activities and once the visa was given, should not take part in local political activities or in activities that can be considered as sensitive to the local people or the security of the country, Abeykoon said.

At the beginning the Dream Care Home programme gives a resident visa with multiple entry benefits for 2 years renewable. The department had advertised this scheme on the internet giving the medical facilities, accommodation and good climatic locations and the hospitable Sri Lankan society as the main attractions for senior citizens from other countries to stay in Sri Lanka, the Commissioner said.