A Strategic Boost for Tourism and Foreign Exchange
Authorities describe the move as a key pillar in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery plan, aimed at boosting foreign exchange earnings and reviving a tourism sector that has faced disruptions in recent years.
“While we forgo an estimated $66 million in visa revenue, the long-term gain in tourism receipts far outweighs that,” Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath explained. “Our aim is to attract high volumes of short-stay tourists who will inject foreign currency directly into the economy.”
The government expects this policy shift to stimulate spending on accommodation, local transport, food services, and cultural experiences, supporting both urban hospitality sectors and rural tourism enterprises.
Expanded Eligibility: Who Benefits?
Initially launched in 2023 for just seven countries—including China, India, and Russia—the free visa policy now includes key tourism markets across five continents. Though the final list awaits official gazetting, reliable sources confirm that the following countries are among those eligible:
- North America: United States, Canada
- Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Spain
- Asia: South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia
- Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
- Middle East: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
- Africa & Latin America: South Africa, Brazil, Argentina
These countries were selected based on travel volume, tourism potential, and economic relations with Sri Lanka.
How to Access the Free Tourist Visa
While the visa fee is waived, travelers must still apply for entry through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system or, in some cases, on arrival.
Steps for application:
- Visit the official ETA portal
- Fill in the application form under the "tourist visa" category
- Submit supporting documents:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of return travel
- Accommodation details
- (Optional) Travel itinerary
- Submit the application
Visa processing typically takes 24 to 48 hours, and the approved visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. While most travelers will receive their visa electronically before travel, on-arrival issuance is also available at Bandaranaike International Airport for some nationalities—though pre-arrival application is encouraged.
Applicants can track their visa status online using a reference number and passport details. For those seeking to extend their stay, a 60-day extension (for a total of 90 days) is available via the Department of Immigration in Colombo.
Travel with Ease, But Within Limits
Authorities emphasize that the visa is strictly for tourism. It does not allow employment or long-term residence, and violators may be subject to penalties.
With growing interest in cultural tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, Sri Lanka hopes to attract both first-time and repeat visitors, capitalizing on its affordability and increasingly stable macroeconomic environment.
Looking Ahead: Tourism as a Growth Engine
This visa expansion signals Sri Lanka’s renewed commitment to tourism as a cornerstone of its economic recovery. Following years of financial strain, the country is now focused on leveraging its competitive advantages—including a favorable exchange rate, welcoming hospitality sector, and diverse cultural offerings.
By removing visa barriers, the government is betting that travelers will choose Sri Lanka over more restrictive or costly destinations in Asia and beyond.
As the policy rolls out, industry stakeholders are optimistic. If successful, Sri Lanka could reclaim its position as one of the region’s most accessible and desirable destinations, offering not just scenery and history—but also a seamless, visitor-friendly experience from arrival to departure.