Sri Lanka Welcomes Indians with Visa-Free Travel From Today

Sri Lanka is now visa-free for Indian travelers starting October 1, 2024, as part of a new initiative aimed at boosting the island nation’s tourism sector. This policy allows citizens of 35 countries, including India, the UK, the USA, and several others, to travel to Sri Lanka without the need for a visa for a six-month period.

This decision is part of Sri Lanka‘s efforts to revitalize its economy, which has faced challenges in recent years, including the aftermath of the 2019 Easter bombings and economic issues stemming from the pandemic. The visa-free policy aims to attract a larger number of tourists, with India already being the largest source of visitors to Sri Lanka. In 2023, Indian travelers made up nearly 20% of all arrivals, and this number is expected to rise with the new policy​.

Sri Lankan authorities initially suspended their e-visa services in August 2024 due to issues with their online visa portal. As a temporary fix, they have now implemented this visa-free entry system, offering travelers the convenience of bypassing visa application processes and associated fees. This is expected to further enhance the appeal of Sri Lanka as a tourist destination, especially for quick getaways​.

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This six-month visa-free window will allow tourists to stay for up to 30 days per visit, offering ample time to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes, historical sites, and rich culture