Sri Lanka expands the list of visa-free countries: Who is affected?

In an effort to revive the tourism sector and restore the economy after the crisis, the authorities of Sri Lanka announced the expansion of the visa-free regime for tourists. This decision involves waiving visa fees for citizens of 40 additional countries, and was approved during the 'Hotel Show Colombo 2025' exhibition. Initially, seven countries, including India and China, participated in the annual trial program, but following a successful pilot phase, the government approved the expansion of the list. Although the state treasury will lose about 66 million dollars annually due to the waiver of visa fees, officials are confident that the influx of tourists will bring a much greater economic effect.

The visa-free program previously covered the following seven countries: India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. Now 40 additional countries join them:

It is officially expected that the expanded visa-free regime will attract more international tourists, create new jobs, and increase revenues from related tourism industries. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism of Sri Lanka, Vijita Herath, despite direct budget losses, indirect benefits from the increased tourist flow will exceed the costs.