Sri Lanka to Issue Free Entry Visas to Tourists From 35 Countries

In a significant move to revitalise its tourism sector and strengthen the economy, Sri Lanka’s cabinet has approved a plan to issue free entry visas to visitors from 35 countries.  This initiative, announced by a top government official on Thursday, aims to attract more tourists and generate revenue as the country recovers from its recent economic challenges

Also read: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Sri Lanka, From Surfing to Scenic Train Rides

Free 30-day visas under six-month pilot program

Starting from 1 Oct 2024, tourists from the selected 35 countries will be granted 30-day free tourist visas as part of a six-month pilot program. Cabinet spokesman and Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardana emphasised the government’s long-term vision during the announcement, stating, “The aim of the government is to transform Sri Lanka into a free visa country, much like Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, to tap into the benefits of a rapidly growing tourism industry.”

Extensive list of countries eligible for free tourist visas

The full list of countries that will benefit from this are: 

Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States.

Singapore currently does not need a Visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

Sri Lankan Airlines scores a point for the tourism industry

As interest in travelling to Sri Lanka rose after the announcement of free entry visas, Sri Lankan Airlines recently released a new safety in-flight video, highlighting its commitment to offering visitors a fully immersive experience of Sri Lanka. In this video, acting flight passengers and crew members enact the typical safety procedures using colourful overlays and creative transitions.

However, that wasn’t all that stood out in the video. What was especially alluring was the transitions at different points in the video that showcased Sri Lanka’s magnificent lush green landscapes that glazed the backdrop of the people. An actor donned what seemed to be a form of Sri Lanka’s traditional dress as he danced gracefully in welcoming passengers to explore its fascinating culture and traditions.

   

Watch the video here:
The caption says “Take a moment to be familiar with our safety protocols while enjoying the timeless beauty of our island home, Sri Lanka,” wonderfully capturing Sri Lanka’s unique culture and exotic wonders that would instantly captivate the hearts of travellers even from a bird’s eye view.  

Also read: Discover the Beauty of Sri Lanka: Top 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit

The country hopes that Sri Lanka’s free tourist visas to visitors from a wide range of countries will be a strategic move aimed at sustaining the momentum in its tourism sector. As the country continues to recover from its recent economic challenges, this initiative is expected to play a crucial role in driving economic growth and solidifying Sri Lanka’s position as a top tourist destination in the region.

Featured image credit: bloodua via Canva Pro

Facebook featured image credit: bloodua and Dmitry Rukhlenko (L-R) via Canva Pro