Sri Lanka will grant free tourist visas for nationals of 40 countries from 25 May 2026, according to a circular issued by the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
The circular, issued by Controller General I. Chaminda Pathiraja, states that the decision follows Cabinet approval granted on 30 March 2026 and subsequent parliamentary approval for amendments to immigration regulations.
Under the new scheme, eligible foreign nationals will be able to obtain a free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) valid for 30 days with double-entry permission.
The 40 countries listed under 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, UAE, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The circular also states that nationals of Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore will continue to receive ETA processing free of charge.
Authorities noted that all foreign nationals, except certain diplomatic and official passport holders covered under bilateral arrangements, must still obtain ETA approval prior to arrival in Sri Lanka.
Applicants who wish to remain in Sri Lanka beyond the initial 30-day period may apply for a visa extension upon payment of the applicable fee.
The Department of Immigration said the amended regulations will be published in the Government Gazette on 25 May 2026. (Newswire)
Apply online : eta.gov.lk