Visa-free entry for citizens of 38 countries introduced in Sri Lanka from September 3, 2024

Starting September 3, 2024, Sri Lanka will launch visa-free travel for citizens of 38 countries. It was planned that the e-visa system, which was previously suspended, would have been reinstated by that time. However, because the process was delayed, tourists arriving in Sri Lanka faced temporary difficulties. The new emergency policy should ease the entry process and reduce queues at immigration counters.

Previously, visa-free travel was announced for 35 countries from October 1, 2024. The updated program has already entered into force and includes 3 additional countries, but at the moment the full list of 38 countries has not been officially published.

Sri Lanka had originally planned to introduce the policy from October 1, but government discussions resulted in the changes being adopted immediately. The Foreign Ministry said that the new system is aimed at simplifying the visa regime, it will make entry into the country faster and more convenient for travelers and minimize delays at the country's checkpoints.

It may be recalled that Sri Lanka's electronic visa (e-Visa) system was suspended by the country's Supreme Court in early August 2024. The process of reinstating the system is ongoing, with an anticipated re-launch date of October 1, 2024. However, the exact dates are to be officially announced by the Sri Lankan authorities.

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