Sri Lanka has moved a step closer to implementing its long-delayed free tourist visa policy, with the Cabinet of Ministers approving draft regulations to be presented to Parliament, signalling renewed efforts to boost the country’s tourism industry.
The decision allows the Government to proceed with a six-month free visa programme targeting passport holders from 39 selected countries under the Immigration and Emigration Act.
Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the draft regulations, prepared by the Legal Draftsman, will now be submitted to Parliament for final approval, speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing.
The proposal, which had earlier received Cabinet approval on July 21, 2025, is aimed at accelerating tourism recovery by reducing entry barriers and enhancing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness as a global travel destination.
The countries expected to benefit from the scheme are:
Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States.
The free visa initiative was first announced in August 2024 by the previous administration, initially covering 35 countries with plans for implementation from October that year. However, delays stalled its rollout.
With the latest Cabinet approval, authorities appear to be expediting the process, raising expectations that the programme will soon come into effect and provide a significant boost to tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings.
Sri Lanka To Allow Free Visa Access To 35 Countries From October
