Sri Lanka Opens Its Doors: Visa-Free Travel for 40 Countries Announced

Colombo – In a major push to revive its tourism sector, Sri Lanka has officially waived visa fees for travelers from 40 countries. The announcement was made by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, during the inauguration of Hotel Show Colombo 2025 at the BMICH.

The new policy aims to encourage international travel to the island nation and comes as part of a broader strategy to position Sri Lanka as a top-tier destination for global tourists.

Here is the full list of 40 countries now eligible for visa-free entry to Sri Lanka:

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Federal Republic of Germany

Kingdom of the Netherlands

Kingdom of Belgium

Kingdom of Spain

Commonwealth of Australia

Republic of Poland

Republic of Kazakhstan

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

United Arab Emirates

Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal

People's Republic of China

Republic of India

Republic of Indonesia

Russian Federation

Kingdom of Thailand

Federation of Malaya

Japan

Republic of France

United States of America

Canada

Czech Republic (Czechia)

Republic of Italy

Swiss Confederation (Switzerland)

Republic of Austria

State of Israel

Republic of Belarus

Islamic Republic of Iran

Kingdom of Sweden

Republic of Finland

Kingdom of Denmark

Republic of Korea

State of Qatar

Sultanate of Oman

Kingdom of Bahrain

New Zealand

State of Kuwait

Kingdom of Norway

Republic of Türkiye

Pakistan

This move is expected to significantly increase tourist arrivals, especially from countries with strong outbound travel markets. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the decision, noting that easier access will improve travel confidence and encourage longer stays.

Sri Lanka’s tourism authorities are also preparing to roll out additional campaigns to promote the country’s attractions, from cultural heritage sites and tea country landscapes to coastal resorts and wildlife experiences.

With the visa barrier removed for millions of potential travelers, Sri Lanka is making a bold bet on tourism-led economic growth.