Sri Lanka is making it easier than ever to visit! The country has extended visa-free travel and introduced an e-Visa fee waiver for citizens of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. This simplified visa process is valid until May 2024 and is designed to attract more tourists.
Great news for travellers from China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan! Sri Lanka has extended visa-free travel for these countries until the end of May 2024. The Sri Lankan government has also introduced an e-visa fee waiver scheme for citizens from these nations.
This move aims to boost tourism in the beautiful island nation by simplifying the entry process for visitors from key markets. Travellers can take advantage of the fee waiver by applying for the 30-day single-entry eVisa option on the official Sri Lanka eVisa Website.
E-Visa Fee Waiver Scheme Introduced
As part of this initiative, Sri Lanka has also introduced an e-visa fee waiver scheme for citizens of the countries above. Visitors can avail themselves of the 30-day single-entry eVisa option without any fees.
Transition to the E-Visa Scheme
Sri Lanka has transitioned from the previous ETA system to a more streamlined e-Visa scheme. Under this system, all visitors must complete an eVisa application before they arrive in the country, making the process simpler and more convenient for travellers.
Expansion of Visa-Free Regime
This move builds upon Sri Lanka’s efforts to attract tourists from around the globe. Last year, the country introduced a similar strategy, granting free visas to travellers from;
China
India
Indonesia
Russia
Thailand
Malaysia
Japan
Initially implemented in October 2023, this initiative has been extended until April 30 to foster stronger ties with key international markets.
Exemption for Citizens of 48 Nations
In addition to the visa-free regime for the countries mentioned above, Sri Lanka has exempted citizens from 48 nations from additional entry requirements. This policy, implemented in April last year, signifies a departure from the previous visa system, which required fees ranging from $20 to $40.
The list of visa-free countries includes European nations, the United States, Thailand, Australia, and Canada. At the same time, South Korea, New Zealand, and Russia joined these countries.
Flexible Visa Options
For travellers seeking longer stays in Sri Lanka, the country offers a range of visa options. A standard tourist visa, priced at $75, grants a generous 180-day validity period with the flexibility of a continuous 60-day stay within the country.
Additionally, multiple entry visas are available for one, two, five, and ten years, catering to diverse travel needs.
Varied Visa Fees and Exemptions
The visa fee structure varies depending on the region, with a fee of $35 for countries within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Visitors from select countries, including Singapore, Maldives, Seychelles, and the Czech Republic, can enjoy visa-free entry to Sri Lanka.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s visa policies aim to make travel to the island nation seamless and accessible for tourists worldwide. With visa-free travel options, streamlined eVisa processes, and flexible visa offerings, Sri Lanka welcomes visitors to experience its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
