 Harmison is currently in action against the Nashua Dolphins |
He will arrive in Sri Lanka on Tuesday and could play some part in a three-day warm-up match starting in Colombo on the same day.
The 29-year-old stepped up his recuperation from hernia surgery by taking 13 wickets in two matches for South African team Highveld Lions.
The Durham ace had been put on standby but now becomes the 16th squad member.
He was left out of England's initial squad for Sri Lanka, but the selectors left the door open for a return - providing he was able to fully recover from his injury.
And after talks between Harmison, chairman of selectors David Graveney, coach Peter Moores and bowling coach Ottis Gibson, it was decided he was fit to join up with the squad for the three-Test series, starting 1 December.
Harmison's form in South Africa had been closely monitored by Gibson, who was impressed with his performances.
The paceman took 6-91 and 3-78 against Cape Cobras in his first match in Paarl, before adding 2-67 and 2-26 against the Dolphins at Potchefstroom.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, have named a strong Board President's XI squad to face England in their opening tour game.
The team will be captained by batsman Tillakaratne Dilshan, one of half a dozen players with Test experience included in the 12-man squad.
"England are a very good side and will be very tough opponents," said Dilshan.
"The team comprises some experienced players who are on the fringe and this is a good opportunity to display their talent and ability."
Matthew Hoggard broke down in the first international match of last summer, against West Indies, and made only one of the remaining six Tests of the season.
But he is 100% fit again, and has been out to impress coach Peter Moores and captain Michael Vaughan in the Colombo nets.
Despite holding central contracts, Hoggard and Harmison are no longer guaranteed their spots in the Test side.
Ryan Sidebottom, in particular, has impressed in all forms of cricket since being drafted in by Peter Moores.
Hoggard said the bowlers selected for the matches can expect a tough workout in south Asia.
"The heat and humidity is one of the biggest things, it drains and saturates you more than it does in a dry, hot country or even in England," said the Yorkshire player.
"The pitches are obviously going to be suited to Muttiah Muralitharan rather than quick bowlers, so I think they will be slow and low."
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