In Sri Lanka, writing is required for certain kinds of contract. Following are the important examples:-

• Section 12, Prescription Ordinance (Cap 68) - acknowledgment for the purpose of limitation
• Sections 7, 8, 9 and 10, Contracts for Hire and Service Ordinance - contracts of hire or service of servant if made for a period exceding one month (including contracts entered into in India) and contracts terminating such contracts
• Section 10, Money Lending Ordinance (Cap 80) - provision that a promissor note is void if it is not accompanied by a written agreement, separately setting out the principal amount and the rate of interest
• Section 20 (3), General Marriages Ordinance (Cap 112) - promise to marry
• Section 2, Prevention of Frauds Ordinance No. 7 of 1840, discussed in the next paragraph