Sri Lanka visa-free travel is set to boost the island’s tourism recovery, as authorities plan to welcome visitors from 40 countries starting January. The initiative targets post-cyclone economic revival and aims to attract international travellers efficiently.
Sri Lanka to launch visa-free facility for 40 countries from January
Sri Lanka is gearing up to implement a comprehensive visa-free facility for 40 countries from January 2026, signaling a strategic push to revitalize its tourism sector. Following the disruptions caused by the recent cyclone, authorities are prioritizing the return of international travellers as a critical component of the country’s post-disaster recovery plan.
Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), confirmed that the visa-free initiative would proceed after receiving the necessary parliamentary approvals. “We aim for a legally robust and strategically sound approach, ensuring Sri Lanka remains an attractive destination while adhering to proper legislative processes,” Hewawasam stated.
The tourism industry, heavily impacted by recent natural disasters, had urged immediate implementation of a visa-free regime. The Hotel Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) emphasized that expanding the list of eligible countries would maximize tourist arrivals during this crucial winter season. Earlier discussions with the President, Treasury Secretary, and Tourism Minister highlighted the need to expedite this process, with some industry leaders suggesting emergency powers. However, legal complexities prompted the government to opt for parliamentary approval instead.
The scheme will initially include 40 countries, with a review scheduled every six months. Depending on the outcome of the first phase, authorities may expand eligibility to more nations. Hewawasam stressed that a careful and dignified approach was vital, stating, “We don’t want to be seen as desperate; strategic planning will ensure sustainable growth in tourism arrivals.”
Sri Lanka’s journey toward visa-free travel has faced several hurdles over the past year. Originally, the Cabinet approved visa-free entry for 35 countries in August 2024, later increasing the list to 38. However, the rollout was stalled by a Supreme Court interim order halting the VFS Global visa outsourcing deal. This legal challenge disrupted immigration processing and left the broader visa-free facility in limbo.
The current implementation only allows holders of ordinary, diplomatic, official, or service passports from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand to obtain a free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). With the expanded visa-free scheme, the government aims to streamline entry procedures and attract a wider array of tourists.
Foreign and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath previously highlighted that the delay in rolling out the full visa-free initiative was largely due to pending clearance from the Attorney General’s Department, addressing legal entanglements linked to the suspended VFS deal. With parliamentary approval now underway, the SLTDA anticipates smooth implementation from January.
Tourism experts note that this move is not only vital for economic recovery but also for positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive winter-season destination. By offering simplified access to 40 countries, the country expects a surge in visitor numbers, providing a significant boost to hotels, local businesses, and allied service sectors.
The initiative is expected to enhance Sri Lanka’s global tourism image, signaling resilience and strategic planning in the face of natural disasters. Authorities are also keen to monitor the results of the initial phase before considering further expansion, ensuring that the program remains sustainable and aligns with the country’s long-term tourism objectives.
With the visa-free facility, Sri Lanka is sending a strong message of openness and recovery. The government’s commitment to structured implementation underscores the importance of legal clarity and strategic execution in rebuilding the tourism industry. By welcoming visitors efficiently and safely, the country anticipates a successful post-Ditwah winter season and a strengthened tourism economy moving forward.