AbijahSri Lanka has extended its free tourist visa policy to 40 nations starting in September 2025 as part of its efforts to entice more guests and enhance economic recovery.
The guideline removes visa charges for qualified tourists, making it simpler and more inexpensive to visit the island country.
Authorities state the program is a technical effort to bring back the tourism industry and promote international exchange incomes amid ongoing economic changes.
While travelers still need to apply online for access, the frequent visa processing charge has been waived for qualified nations.
The programs, typically introduced in 2023 and protecting just seven countries, including India, China, and Russia, have now developed immensely. The lengthy list comprises major tourism markets across Europe, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Oceania.
The nations anticipated to gain from this policy include the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, South Africa, Brazil, Australia, and others.
While the last list is yet to be formally gazetted, dependable sources demonstrate these nations are verified as qualified under the present extension.
Officials state that the action is part of Sri Lanka’s wider strategy to restore economic development via increased tourism flows following years of fiscal strain and international currency deficits.
HOW ELIGIBLE TRAVELERS CAN GET A FREE VISA TO SRI LANKA
Tourists from the 40 qualified nations can now get a visa to enter Sri Lanka without paying the general charge; however, a request is still needed.
The most general pathway is through the official Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) portal, where candidates must complete a general form, choose the “tourist visa” part, and present major travel documents.
A passport that is valid for at least six months, proof of a return ticket, and housing details are required. An option is a travel schedule, however it is not advised.
For some nations, free visas may also be awarded upon landing at the airport, though the government recommends that travelers verify their qualifications on time before their journey.
The visa processing automatically takes 1 to 2 days; therefore, tourists are encouraged to make an application many days before their travel. The free visa protects short-term stays, commonly valid for up to 1 month, with some adjustability based on the candidate’s country.
Hence, tourists can track the status of their visa requests online by logging in with their passport number and reference number on the official Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) portal. Candidates can check authorization updates in real time.
The free visa is valid for one month from the arrival date and is provided as a single-access permit. Tourists looking for a prolonged visit may apply to the Department of Immigration in Colombo for an extension of about three months.
The visa is only for tourist, according to the authorities. Both employment and permanent residency are prohibited.
REASONS SRI LANKA IS PROVIDING FREE VISAS
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister, Vijitha Herath, states that the extended free visa guideline is a considerate effort to promote tourism without making the procedure more difficult.
While the government expects a forfeiture of about $66 million in visa income, the wider objective is to ease that loss via elevated tourist expenses on hotels, food, transportation, and local experiences.
Officials believe that the visa waiver will make Sri Lanka one of the most alluring destinations in the region, as the country’s economy suggests signs of stability and continues to attract tourists.
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