The government of Sri Lank has announced citizens from 40 selected countries will now be eligible for free tourist visas.
According to the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration, the decision, effective immediately, eliminates visa fees for visitors from these nations. This scheme covers South Asian countries like India, Pakistan and Nepal. However, Bangladesh is not included in this list.
The initiative is designed to attract more international travelers, boost foreign exchange earnings, and position the country as a competitive destination in the global tourism market. Official sources confirmed that the selected countries span multiple continents, including key source markets for tourism.
"The removal of visa fees is expected to significantly reduce entry barriers for travellers," said a senior official from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. "This policy will encourage more tourists to explore our cultural and natural heritage."
Under the new rules, eligible travellers will still need to complete the standard visa application process, but the processing fee will be waived. The free visa facility applies to tourist visas only, and visitors must comply with all other entry requirements, including valid passports, return tickets, and proof of accommodation.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the announcement. Representatives from tour operators' associations noted that visa costs have often been a deterrent for budget-conscious travelers. "This is a gamechanger for our tourism industry," one operator stated.
However, officials clarified that the waiver applies only to visa fees and not to any service charges levied by online visa processing platforms. Travelers are advised to apply through official government portals to avoid unnecessary costs.
The list of the 40 eligible countries has been published on the official immigration website. Tourism experts predict a substantial rise in visitor arrivals in the coming months, potentially creating new opportunities for the hospitality and service sectors across the country.
ATT Desk Report 
