Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has greenlit a pilot project offering visa-free entry to tourists from seven countries, effective immediately until 31 March 2024. The move, confirmed by Tourism Minister Harin Fernando, allows visitors from India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand to enter the country without a visa.
The decision followed a joint cabinet paper presented by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Tourism and Lands Minister Harin Fernando, Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry. The goal of this initiative is to boost tourism in Sri Lanka and attract more visitors. Specifically, tourists from China, Russia, India, Thailand, and Indonesia will benefit from this visa exemption program, aimed at increasing Sri Lanka’s tourist arrivals to five million in the coming years.
This move aligns with China’s announcement of 20 countries for Chinese tourists to visit, positioning Sri Lanka as one of these destinations. By eliminating the need for visas, the program aims to save both time and money for international travelers, making Sri Lanka a more appealing destination. Additionally, the Tourism Ministry plans to introduce an e-ticketing system for various tourist sites in the country soon. These measures are expected to enhance the overall tourist experience and encourage a surge in visitors to Sri Lanka
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