Sri Lanka Opens Doors to Indian Tourists Without Visas
Sri Lanka is making it easier for Indian tourists to visit the country by announcing visa-free entry till March 31st 2024, starting from October 25, 2023. This move is part of a pilot project to boost tourism in Sri Lanka, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The country's foreign minister, Ali Sabry, made an announcement on social media platform X on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.
"Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia & Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March,”
Indian citizens can apply for the visa-free entry online at the Sri Lanka ETA website. Once approved, travelers will be issued an ETA number, which must be presented at the port of entry into Sri Lanka in order to obtain a visa-free entry stamp.
The visa-free entry scheme is applicable to all Indian citizens, regardless of their purpose of visit. However, travelers must still comply with all other immigration requirements, such as having a valid passport and return ticket.
The Sri Lankan government is hopeful that the visa-free entry scheme will encourage more Indian tourists to visit the country. Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination for Indians, with many visitors drawn to its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and lush rainforests.
The visa-free entry scheme is expected to be in place for six months, until March 31, 2024. The Sri Lankan government will review the scheme after this period to determine whether to make it permanent.
Sri Lanka’s economy to benefit!
This is great news for Indian travelers who have been wanting to visit Sri Lanka! With the new visa-free entry scheme, all you need is a valid passport and return ticket to enjoy the country's stunning beaches, ancient temples, and delicious food.
The visa-free entry scheme is also a positive step for the Sri Lankan economy. Tourism is a major contributor to the Sri Lankan economy, and the increase in tourist arrivals is likely to boost economic growth and create jobs.
Also read: Top 15 Visa-Free Destinations from India
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Sri Lanka today!
Published at
About Author
Subscribe our Newsletter
Get our weekly tips and travel news!
Related Posts
West Bengal: Tagore's Residence Santiniketan Achieves UNESCO World Heritage Status
Santiniketan, a town in West Bengal's Birbhum region where Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore spent much of his life, has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
UK Visitor Visa Fee Hiked: What's the New fee?
Planning to visit the United Kingdoms? Watchout for this Hike in Visa Charges. A UK tourist visa for less than six months will cost an additional £1,543 (£ 15), while UK student visas will cost an additional £13,070 (£127) for visitors from all over the w
India Issues Caution for Travel to Canada - Visa suspended
The advisory, issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), comes amid a diplomatic row between the two countries over allegations that the Indian government may be linked to the extra-judicial killing of a Sikh separatist in Canada.
First snowfall of the season in Gulmarg
As the chilly winds of winter start to sweep across the northern regions of India, Gulmarg, the crown jewel of Jammu and Kashmir, has once again transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Nature's magic was on full display as Gulmarg recently...
Biswanath Ghat: Best tourism village of India 2023
In an exciting announcement, Biswanath Ghat in Assam has been crowned as India's "Best Tourism Village of 2023" by the Ministry of Tourism. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to the village's unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beau...
Latest Posts
Best International Christmas Destinations from India in 2026
Planning a Christmas holiday abroad in 2026? Explore the best international destinations from India, from snowy European cities and festive Christmas markets to tropical beaches and budget-friendly getaways.
Digi Yatra International Trials Begin November 1 at 7 Airports: Who Can Use It and How It Works
International air travel in India is taking a digital turn. From November 1, 2026, eligible Indian passport holders can use Digi Yatra at seven airports for selected international journeys. Here is everything travellers need to know about the new trials.
Indian Railways Charging Rule: Why Your Phone May Stop Charging at Night
Indian Railways has renewed enforcement of its overnight charging restrictions, directing train charging points to remain switched off between 11 PM and 5 AM following a power-bank explosion. Here's what passengers need to know.
Dev Deepawali in Varanasi 2026 – Dates, Ganga Aarti and Travel Guide
Dev Deepawali takes place in Varanasi on 24 November 2026. Discover the illuminated ghats, grand Ganga Aarti, Ganga Mahotsav dates and essential tips for planning your trip.
One World, A Thousand Lights: How Different Cultures Celebrate the Festival of Lights
From Diwali's glowing diyas to China's spectacular lantern displays and Sweden's candlelit processions, discover the beautiful traditions behind festivals of light around the world.