Sri Lanka is accelerating plans to introduce free visas for travelers from 40 countries, as the island nation looks to counter a sharp slowdown in tourist arrivals linked to ongoing Middle East tensions and disrupted air travel.
The long-discussed initiative, first raised in 2024, is now being pushed forward on an expedited timeline. Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed the free electronic travel authorization (ETA) scheme is set to be finalized and submitted to Cabinet, with parliamentary approval targeted this April.
The move comes as Sri Lanka grapples with a notable dip in inbound travel. Authorities report a 15% decline in arrivals tied to regional instability, which has impacted flight routes, increased airfares, and triggered cancellations—particularly on Europe-Asia corridors.
Latest data underscores the downturn. Between March 1 and 25, the destination welcomed 151,693 visitors, down 22% year-on-year. Average daily arrivals fell to 6,068, compared to 7,407 during the same period in 2025, with peak daily volumes still below typical seasonal levels.
Despite the short-term pressure, Sri Lanka’s broader tourism recovery remains intact. The country recorded 708,348 arrivals in the first quarter, marking a 4.45% increase year-over-year, driven by strong performance earlier in the year before geopolitical tensions escalated.
India continues to lead as the top source market, accounting for 26% of arrivals in March. Other key contributors include the UK, Russia, China, and Germany, while long-haul markets such as France and the United States have helped soften the decline.
Colombo is now targeting these core markets through the expanded free visa scheme. Currently, seven countries—including China, India, Japan, and Russia—already benefit from free ETA access. The new proposal would extend the waiver to an additional 33 countries, including major European markets, the United States, Australia, and Gulf states.
By removing visa fees, Sri Lanka is deploying a familiar strategy used by destinations to stimulate demand during downturns. However, the timing is critical. The initiative comes as global travel demand faces renewed uncertainty, largely driven by geopolitical risks and fragile air connectivity.
