Sri Lanka plans to waive visa fees – Tourists from India, China, Russia and Thailand benefit

Sri Lanka is taking significant steps to boost its tourism sector by waiving visa fees for tourists from key countries. According to the country’s Ministry of Tourism, the plan includes exempting visa fees for visitors from China, Russia, India, Thailand, and Indonesia.

In a tweet, Tourism Minister Harin Fernando stated, “Everything is ready for free visa approval for five countries namely China, India, Russia, Thailand and Indonesia. Through this, the doors will be opened for a new leap in the tourism sector.”

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract more tourists and stimulate the tourism industry in Sri Lanka. Currently, the country offers free visas to tourists from Singapore and the Maldives, who reciprocate this policy for Sri Lankan visitors. For other travellers, an online electronic travel authorization is available for around $30, with lower fees for those from South Asia. The move to waive visa fees for these specific nations is expected to make Sri Lanka an even more attractive destination for international tourists with Tangalle hotels the likes of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort gaining more guests and popularity.