Visa fee waived for visitors from seven nations as pilot project to boost tourism

The Department of Immigration and Emigration announced on Tuesday (28) that the visa fee has been waived for residents of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan visiting Sri Lanka, with immediate effect.

In a statement, the Department said that this scheme is valid until March 31, 2024, and that this is a pilot programme to rebuild the tourism industry.

Residents of the above-nominated countries possessing diplomatic, official, public affairs, service, and ordinary passports are eligible for this scheme.

Visitors from these countries first need to apply for a free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka, the Department said.

Under this scheme, tourists can enjoy a 30-day visa, and a double entry facility too is permitted from the date of first arrival to Sri Lanka within 30 days, the statement said.