Sri Lanka Free 30-Day ETA has officially been introduced for tourists from 40 countries, marking a major step aimed at boosting international visitor arrivals and strengthening the country’s tourism recovery efforts.
Sri Lanka Free 30-Day ETA expands tourist travel access
According to the Department of Immigration and Emigration Sri Lanka, the new policy came into effect on 25 May 2026 and allows eligible foreign nationals to obtain a free 30-day Electronic Travel Authorisation for tourist visits to Sri Lanka.
The list of eligible countries includes key tourism source markets such as Australia, China, India, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany and France, along with several countries across Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Authorities stated that holders of diplomatic, official, service and ordinary passports from these countries will qualify under the scheme.
Under the new Sri Lanka Free 30-Day ETA initiative, travellers will be permitted double-entry access during the 30-day validity period, providing additional flexibility for tourists visiting the country. Officials also confirmed that extensions beyond the initial 30-day period will continue to be available subject to applicable fees and immigration approval.
Industry stakeholders believe the move could provide a timely boost to Sri Lanka tourism by making travel procedures more convenient and cost-effective for international visitors. Tourism operators have consistently highlighted visa accessibility as an important factor influencing travel decisions, particularly within highly competitive regional markets.
The introduction of a free Electronic Travel Authorisation system is also expected to support Sri Lanka’s wider tourism promotion strategy aimed at increasing visitor arrivals, foreign exchange earnings and investor confidence within the hospitality sector.
Authorities further noted that Maldivian nationals will continue to receive a separate 90-day tourist ETA under the existing bilateral arrangement between Sri Lanka and the Maldives. However, all foreign nationals travelling under the latest scheme must still obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation before arriving in the country.
Officials clarified that any ETA fees paid before 25 May 2026 would not be refunded despite the implementation of the free visa initiative.
Tourism analysts say the Sri Lanka Free 30-Day ETA programme could improve the country’s attractiveness among short-term holidaymakers, business travellers and regional tourists seeking affordable travel destinations. The simplified entry process may also encourage repeat visits and multi-destination travel within South Asia.
The Sri Lanka tourism sector has been gradually recovering following several years of economic and global travel challenges. Industry experts believe easing travel formalities and reducing visa costs could help accelerate the sector’s momentum during upcoming peak travel seasons.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation system has increasingly become a preferred travel management tool globally, allowing countries to improve immigration efficiency while maintaining security screening and traveller verification processes through digital platforms.
As Sri Lanka continues efforts to strengthen tourism competitiveness, stakeholders expect further policy measures focused on improving accessibility, airline connectivity and visitor experience in order to attract higher international tourist arrivals and tourism-related investments.