The free issuance of Dambadiva pilgrimage visas has not made a change - Indian High Commission

The Indian High Commission in Colombo states that there has been no change in the policy of providing free (Gratis) visas for Sri Lankans traveling to India for pilgrimage, and eligible pilgrims will continue to receive this facility. Accordingly, Sri Lankans have the option to submit applications through the Indian e-visa system as well as through the Indian Consular Application Centres (ICAC) established in Colombo, Kandy, Jaffna, Hambantota, and Batticaloa, using the regular online method.

This free visa facility is available to Sri Lankans who join groups of not less than 10 individuals for pilgrimage tours, including Buddhist sacred sites, with the recommendations of the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs. This system was temporarily suspended due to a change in the visa service provider, but with the new service provider commencing operations, the free visa issuance service has been reactivated.

In accordance with new Indian regulations, pilgrims are required to visit ICAC centers, either individually or in groups, to provide biometric information. However, this requirement for providing biometric information only applies to applicants between the ages of 12 and 70. Additionally, a special fast-track service has been introduced for senior citizens who come to provide biometric information, minimizing their waiting time in queues.

The Indian High Commission further states that while no visa fee will be charged from pilgrims applying under this approved visa scheme, a service fee of LKR 1,855 must be paid to the respective ICAC center solely for the acceptance of applications and provision of related services.