Licensing & Compliance Hub
480+
Licenses approved in 2024
14 Days
Average processing time
24/7
Compliance & support hotline
Simplified Licensing for Sustainable Aquaculture
Apply, renew, and manage every NAQDA license from a single workspace. Follow clear steps, track service levels, download approved templates, and connect with our compliance team when you need support.
Start fast
Your Licensing Shortcuts
Choose the pathway that matches your current need. Every action provides the forms, requirements, and contacts you require.
Apply for a New License
Freshwater, coastal, processing, and support licenses with guided documentation templates.
Renew or Amend
Keep your permits active and update production capacities, site coordinates, or ownership details.
Track Application Status
View where your file sits in the review pipeline, assigned officers, and outstanding actions.
Talk to Licensing Support
Connect with compliance specialists, book inspection visits, or escalate field-level issues.
Licensing catalogue
Choose the License That Matches Your Operation
Select a category to reveal the permits available, expected processing timelines, and the documents you need to prepare ahead of submission.
Reservoir Cage Culture Permit
Deploy floating cage systems in major reservoirs with sustainable stock deployment plans and water-quality monitoring.
Start ApplicationIndoor Recirculating System
Operate enclosed recirculating aquaculture facilities for tilapia, carp, or ornamental broodstock management.
Start ApplicationSeed Production & Hatchery License
Register hatcheries that supply fingerlings or post-larvae to state stock deployment programs and commercial aquaculture facilities.
Start ApplicationCoastal Shrimp Aquaculture Permit
Secure permission for semi-intensive or intensive shrimp culture systems with environmental safeguards.
Start ApplicationSea Cucumber Ranching License
Operate sea cucumber ranches and grow-out sites aligned to NAQDA stock enhancement strategy.
Start ApplicationMariculture Cage License
Deploy marine cages for finfish species in coastal waters under the Blue Economy zoning plan.
Start ApplicationProcessing & Value Addition License
Operate fish and shrimp processing plants with HACCP, traceability, and export compliance.
Start ApplicationLive Fish Transport License
Authorises specialized transport for broodstock, fingerlings, or ornamental fish across provinces.
Start ApplicationOrnamental Export License
Register hatcheries and exporters dealing in live ornamental fish and aquatic plants.
Start ApplicationConsultancy & Technical Services
Register aquaculture consultants, veterinary labs, or feed specialists partnering with NAQDA aquaculture operators.
Start ApplicationTraining Centre Accreditation
Gain accreditation for community training centres providing NAQDA certified courses.
Start ApplicationCommunity Cluster Registration
Organize cluster licenses for aquaculture operator societies for feed coordination, input subsidies, and market access.
Start Application
End-to-end workflow
Your Licensing Process in Four Predictable Steps
Every application follows a transparent track. Submit complete documentation to keep processing time within service-level targets.
1
Submit Online Application
Attach digital copies of required documents, maps, and declarations. You instantly receive a tracking ID.
2
Compliance Review & Clarifications
Licensing officers verify documentation, request clarifications, and coordinate with provincial offices.
3
Field Inspection & Decision
Inspection teams validate infrastructure, environmental safeguards, and stakeholder commitments.
4
Approval & Digital Permit
Receive your e-license, renewal reminders, and compliance visit schedule through the NAQDA portal.
Documentation & renewals
Be Inspection-Ready with the Right Documentation
Use the following checklists to prepare for new applications, renewals, and site-level audits.
Document Checklist
- Completed NAQDA license template (download below)
- Land/lease agreements and provincial clearances
- Environmental assessment or mitigation plan where applicable
- Production plan with species, stock deployment densities, and annual output
- Biosecurity plan, disease monitoring records, and waste management strategy
- Proof of payment for application or renewal fees
Eligibility & Service Levels
- Renewals: Submit 30 days before license expiry with production and compliance reports.
- Cluster licenses: Provide society registration with at least 20 active aquaculture operators.
- Processing plants: Maintain HACCP certification and approved effluent systems.
- SLA commitment: NAQDA processes complete applications within 30 calendar days.
- Escalations: Use hotline +94 112 321 654 or email licensing@naqda.gov.lk.
Transparent fees
Application & Renewal Fees
Fees are stated in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) and reviewed annually. Payment receipts must be uploaded with your application.
| License Category | New Application | Annual Renewal | Processing SLA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freshwater grow-out (culture systems/cages) | Rs. 10,000 | Rs. 5,000 | 20 business days |
| Coastal shrimp & mariculture permits | Rs. 15,000 | Rs. 7,500 | 25 business days |
| Hatcheries & seed production centres | Rs. 12,500 | Rs. 6,000 | 18 business days |
| Processing, exports, logistics | Rs. 13,500 | Rs. 6,500 | 20 business days |
| Consultancies & training services | Rs. 8,500 | Rs. 4,000 | 10 business days |
Templates & downloads
Standard Forms, Templates, and Guidance Notes
Download the most recent NAQDA-approved documentation to prepare complete submissions.
PDF
Unified License Application
Blank template for new license requests with instructions and declaration pages.
Checklist Renewal & Inspection ChecklistEnsure you meet annual renewal requirements before field verification teams arrive.
DOCX Biosecurity Plan TemplateRecommended layout for hatcheries, aquaculture facilities, and live transport operators.
Guideline Environmental Safeguard ManualNAQDA guide for effluent, sludge, and coastal zone management compliance.
FAQ
Licensing Questions We Answer Every Week
Use the license catalogue above to match species, culture system, and production scale. If you operate multiple systems (for example hatchery and grow-out) you will need permits for each. Contact the provincial licensing office for blended projects.
Fast-tracking is available for strategic investments endorsed by the Ministry. Submit a justification letter and project dossier to licensing@naqda.gov.lk with subject "Fast-track request". We will confirm eligibility within three working days.
The compliance team will share corrective actions and a resubmission deadline. Address the issues, upload evidence through the status portal, and book a follow-up inspection within 30 days to keep the application active.
Submit renewal applications at least 30 days before expiry. You retain operating status while NAQDA processes the renewal. Late submissions may trigger a lapse in coverage and require reinspection.
Need Help Completing Your Application?
The Licensing & Compliance Command Centre is available weekdays from 8.30 AM to 5.00 PM. Call +94 112 321 654, email licensing@naqda.gov.lk, or visit the provincial NAQDA office near you.
Talk with NAQDA Support