Sri Lanka Introduces Visa-Free Schemes For Over 30 Countries: Plans To Ease “Visa Crisis”

Beginning October 1st 2024, Sri Lanka implemented a visa-free scheme for 35 countries and counting, with plans to include 3 additional nationalities to the roster. The plans follow the country’s recent challenges with its visa system, and are cited as an effort to solve its “visa crisis.” This includes the suspension of the newly minted e-visa system, which led to the government issuing visas upon arrival for international tourists.

The visa-free initiative, announced in late September, takes direct inspiration from Singapore’s “One Chop” system, designed to off-load the congestion of tourist arrivals at the country’s international airport. The initial list of candidates included Thailand, India, Australia and Japan, although the countries eligible for the scheme may be subject to change.

Sri Lanka has made significant strides in recovering its tourism industry following a turbulent post-pandemic period. Currently, the list of offerings and top things to do in Sri Lanka include a diverse range of destinations and activities, from luxury hotel stays in Kalutara with Anantara Kalutara Resort to hill country exploration in the central region.