Sri Lanka has announced an extension of its visa-free entry initiative for visitors from 7 countries until April 30, 2024. Citizens of India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand were first approved for visa-free entry by the Cabinet of Ministers in October 2023. The program was initially due to last until March 31. However,
8 November 2023
| Post bySri Lanka has recently launched a pilot scheme, effective immediately and running until March 31, 2024, offering visa-free entry to tourists from China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand.
This change to Sri Lanka’s visa policy is part of the island nation’s efforts to boost its tourism sector, which is a significant contributor to the economy.
The decision coincides with the Indian festival season, aiming to increase tourist inflow and support Sri Lanka’s economy, particularly in the wake of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Easier Travel for Temporary Visa-Free Citizens
The visa-free entry policy simplifies the travel process for citizens of these 7 countries. They can now visit Sri Lanka without the hassle and expense of obtaining a Sri Lankan visa.
This ease of travel is expected to encourage more tourists to consider Sri Lanka as a destination.
Focus on Indian tourists
Indian tourists have been a top source market in Sri Lanka for many years. This year, 20% of the total number of tourists arrivals in Sri Lanka have been Indian.
The Sri Lankan Convention Bureau (SLCB) has emphasized India as a priority market, focusing on attracting various types of tourists, including families and adventure seekers.
Special deals for Indian tourists are being worked out, and collaborations with low-cost carriers are in progress to facilitate easier travel.
Thisum Jayasurya, chairman of the Sri Lankan Convention Bureau (SLCB), commented in a delegation last year:
“India has always stood strong with Sri Lanka with their boundless love to visit and explore our island. Wonders of our paradise are ready for Indians.”
Sri Lanka Aims to Boost Tourism
Sri Lanka’s tourism industry aims to attract 2 million visitors this year, a significant increase from the previous target of 1.5 million.
The visa-free initiative is part of broader efforts to revive the tourism sector, which has been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the country’s financial crisis.
By making travel more accessible and affordable, Sri Lanka hopes to see a substantial rise in tourist arrivals, bringing much-needed revenue to the country.
The diverse attractions, including beaches, nature, culture, and adventure activities, are being promoted to appeal to a broad spectrum of tourists.
Other Asian Nations Ease Visa Requirements
Following Sri Lanka’s lead, Thailand has also announced a visa-free entry policy for Indian and Taiwanese tourists, effective from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024. This move aims to encourage more tourists during the peak travel season.
Thailand, which had previously waived tourist visa requirements for Chinese nationals, is looking to boost its tourism sector, a vital part of its GDP.
Thailand and Sri Lanka’s decision reflects a broader trend among Asian countries to relax visa requirements to stimulate their tourism industries and recover from the setbacks caused by the pandemic.
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