This step has been taken with the aim of promoting tourism and strengthening diplomatic relations. Sri Lanka has announced that it will offer visa-free entry for Indian citizens and 34 other nationalities from October 1, 2024. “This visa-free entry will be available for a period of six months,” Tourism Minister Harin Fernando was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

Sri Lanka was visa-free for Indians until May 31, 2024, until a recent Supreme Court interim order suspended the e-visa portal operated by IVS-GBS and VFS Global. Since then, Indians can apply for the visa-on-arrival option until October 1. The current visa fee for Indians is $50 (INR 4,197).

And now, this important policy change is expected to increase the number of tourists to the island nation, which is known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture. The visa-free policy will make it easier and more convenient for travelers from eligible countries to explore Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions.

The 34 countries included in the visa-free scheme are: India, UK, China, US, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Poland, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Nepal, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, France, Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Israel, Belarus, Iran, Sweden, South Korea, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and New Zealand.

Sri Lanka and India

Indian travelers have long been Sri Lanka’s most dedicated tourists, accounting for 20% of all incoming tourists in 2023. The recent announcement of visa-free entry is expected to further boost this trend, attracting even more Indian visitors to the island nation, which hopes to revive its tourism industry, which has been hit by various challenges in recent years. By offering visa-free entry, the government aims to attract more international visitors and boost the country’s economy.

Also read: You can now travel from India to Sri Lanka by sea, as ferry service has resumed

Sri Lanka has made consistent efforts to attract Indian tourists. In October 2023, the country temporarily waived visa fees for Indian travellers and six other nationalities. According to the Sri Lanka Development Authority, India remains the top source of tourists, with 246,922 Indian tourists expected in 2024. This surge in tourism has significantly boosted Sri Lanka’s economy, with tourism revenue reaching $1.5 billion in the first half of 2024.

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