Visa-Free Entry for Indians: 60 Days Starting October 1

Starting October 1, 2024, Sri Lanka will grant visa-free entry to Indian citizens for a duration of 60 days as part of a broader initiative to boost tourism. This decision aims to simplify travel and attract more visitors from India, which has consistently been one of the largest tourist demographics for Sri Lanka. The visa-free entry will last for six months and is part of an effort to revitalize Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which has struggled in recent years.

The new policy comes in light of a suspension of e-visa services due to a Supreme Court order, ending previous visa on arrival options that were in place until May 31, 2024. The temporary lifting of visa fees for Indian tourists further complements this new arrangement, indicating Sri Lanka's commitment to attracting Indian travelers. This follows previous waivers of visa fees for visitors from India and several other countries.

In 2024, Sri Lanka welcomed nearly 250,000 Indian tourists, highlighting the importance of this demographic to the country's economy. The tourism sector had begun to recover, with a reported income of $1.5 billion in the first half of 2024. The tourism minister has actively promoted Sri Lanka in India, and this visa-free entry policy is expected to further bolster these efforts.

Sri Lanka's initiative is part of a larger trend to increase accessibility for travelers from various countries, emphasizing the importance of ease of travel in promoting tourism. Indian passport holders can enjoy simplified entry, allowing them to explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural and natural heritage without the burden of visa application processes.