Sri Lanka free visa scheme will be implemented from the first quarter of 2026, enabling travelers from 33 additional countries to visit without ETA fees, a move aimed at revitalizing the nation’s tourism industry after recent challenges.
Sri Lanka free visa scheme to boost tourism from first quarter of 2026
Sri Lanka free visa scheme is set to take effect in the first quarter of 2026, marking a pivotal step in the country’s tourism revival strategy. Announced last year by the government, the scheme had faced delays in formal implementation due to pending gazette notifications, but authorities confirmed that it will now proceed as planned.
Foreign and Foreign Employment Minister Vijith Herath stated that the scheme’s rollout will make Sri Lanka a more accessible destination, strengthening international tourist arrivals and supporting the hospitality sector’s ongoing recovery. “It will be implemented from the first quarter of this year,” he said, reiterating the government’s commitment to facilitating travel and promoting tourism growth.
The initiative will expand visa exemptions to 33 additional countries, complementing existing arrangements for nations including China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand. This expansion is part of Sri Lanka’s broader effort to attract visitors from key regional and global markets, fostering increased economic activity in accommodation, transport, and related services.
Tourism authorities anticipate that the introduction of the free visa scheme will significantly boost inbound travel numbers, improve hotel occupancy rates, and strengthen the nation’s position as a leading South Asian tourist destination. By removing ETA fees for eligible countries, the government aims to reduce administrative barriers, increase convenience, and encourage longer stays among international travelers.
Industry experts highlighted that the timing of the scheme aligns with the peak tourism planning period, allowing travel agencies, hotels, and airlines to adjust operations to accommodate increased demand. Travel operators noted that simplifying visa processes is a critical factor in influencing traveler decisions, particularly for first-time visitors exploring Sri Lanka’s beaches, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions.
The government’s visa policy reforms are part of a multi-pronged strategy to accelerate tourism-led economic recovery following several challenging years. These included the pandemic-related downturn, global travel restrictions, and natural events affecting visitor sentiment. By implementing the free visa scheme, Sri Lanka seeks to restore its pre-pandemic tourism momentum and enhance competitiveness relative to regional destinations.
Minister Herath emphasized that the visa policy changes would complement other initiatives aimed at improving visitor experiences, such as digital travel facilitation, enhanced airport services, and targeted marketing campaigns. The addition of 33 countries to the exemption list reflects the government’s data-driven approach, focusing on markets with strong growth potential and high propensity for repeat visits.
Travel industry stakeholders welcomed the announcement, noting that it would boost confidence among international operators and incentivize tour packages targeting Sri Lanka. Hotels and resorts are preparing to scale up services and promotional offers to capitalize on the expected influx of travelers, particularly from emerging tourism markets.
Moreover, the free visa scheme aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader strategy to enhance sustainable tourism, attract premium travelers, and diversify the visitor base beyond traditional markets. By simplifying entry requirements, the government intends to foster long-term economic benefits, support local employment in tourism-dependent sectors, and increase foreign exchange earnings.
As the first quarter of 2026 approaches, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment will issue the necessary guidelines and gazette notifications to ensure a smooth implementation. Authorities are coordinating with immigration officials, airlines, and tourism boards to guarantee that eligible visitors can benefit from the visa-free entry without administrative hurdles.
The rollout of the Sri Lanka free visa scheme represents a forward-looking effort to strengthen the country’s international connectivity and tourism appeal. By expanding visa exemptions, reducing costs for travelers, and streamlining entry procedures, the government aims to create a favorable environment for tourism growth and sustainable economic development.