The decision of the Sri Lanka to implement its visa waiver policy for citizens of 35 countries was taken immediately on September 2, 2024.
The aim of this action is to remedy the problems encountered by passengers at the airport, following the suspension of the online electronic visa system (e-Visa). The inefficient management of the chosen foreign service provider had made the e-Visa process complicated, leading to long queues and delays for tourists at airports. In response to this situation, the Sri Lankan government decided to make it easier for visitors to enter the country, and to boost the country's tourism sector.
Originally, the policy was to be implemented on October 1, 2024, in response to the pressing need to facilitate tourist access. A simplified passport stamp method was introduced by the Sri Lankan government, based on the Singapore model, to reduce congestion at visa counters and improve the visitor experience.
Countries benefiting
Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, United States, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Iran, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Costa Rica.
3 other countries have also been added, but their names are not yet known
Terms and conditions
Citizens of eligible countries can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days under the visa waiver policy. This period cannot be extended under this particular exemption, although extensions are generally possible in other visa cases.
This simplification remains a test and must ".theoreticallyThe "visa" expires in 6 months, and visitors must enter the country before the expiry date.
Exclusions and Limitations
Certain countries are not entitled to this exemption and must follow standard visa application procedures. Citizens of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, North Korea, Ghana, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan and Syria are not eligible for a visa on arrival and must apply directly at the nearest Sri Lankan Immigration Department headquarters.
Consequences for the Visa Electronic System
The discontinuation of the e-Visa system played a key role in the adoption of this new law. Discussions are still underway concerning the return to an electronic visa system or the improvement of the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), with decisions expected in the coming months). The aim of this transition is to guarantee improved management and easier access for international visitors.
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