Investigation

Regulating and Monitoring Cinema-related Activities

The Investigation Division plays a key role in regulating and monitoring cinema-related activities across the country. Below is a summary of its core responsibilities:

• Conducting proper inspections of all cinemas across the country and taking necessary actions in accordance with the NFC circulars to identify and rectify irregularities.
• Monitoring of foreign film productions carried out within Sri Lanka.
• Inspecting cinemas to ensure audience safety and availability of basic facilities in line with the minimum cinema standards.
• Issuing required recommendations to the Department of Excise for the issuance of liquor licenses to cinemas.
• Collecting information and referring for necessary approvals related to proposed new cinema constructions.

How to Apply for Liquor Licenses in Cinemas

• After submitting the formal request to the NFC Chairman, duly filled Application Form must be submitted to the NFC Investigation Division. (Download)
• Only requests that meet the NFC criteria will be recommended to the Department of Excise.

How to Build a Cinema

1. Written Request
   A formal request must be submitted to the Chairman of the National Film Corporation regarding the proposed cinema construction.
2. Site Inspection
   An official site inspection will be conducted on the proposed premises, followed by a detailed report.
3. Document Submission
   If the site is deemed suitable for cinema construction, the following documents must be submitted:
   • Certified copy of the deed of the proposed land
   • Business registration certificate of the applicant
   • Building plan of the proposed cinema, certified by the relevant local authorities
4. Approval Process
   After verifying the submitted documents through relevant authorities, recommendations will be made. Final approval will be granted under Section 44 of the National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka Act No. 47 of 1971, as amended by Act No. 45 of 1980, and duly filled application and declaration should be submitted. (Download)