Sri Lanka has introduced a new tourism-friendly visa policy designed to make travel easier and more affordable for international visitors. Under this updated system, citizens of 40 countries, including Pakistan, will now be able to benefit from a waiver of visa fees when visiting the country.
As part of the new arrangement, eligible travelers will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their journey, but they will not have to pay the usual visa charges. Once approved, the ETA allows visitors to enter Sri Lanka and stay for up to 30 days. The process is intended to be simple and fully online, helping reduce delays and making entry more convenient for tourists.
Authorities have also clarified that any visa fees paid before the introduction of this policy change will not be refunded. This means travelers who applied or paid earlier will not be eligible for compensation under the new rules. For those wishing to stay longer than 30 days, extensions will still be possible, but they will be subject to additional fees and standard immigration approval procedures.
The main goal of this initiative is to strengthen Sri Lanka’s tourism industry by encouraging more international arrivals. By removing visa costs and simplifying entry requirements, the country hopes to attract a larger number of visitors, support the hospitality sector, and contribute to overall economic growth through increased tourism activity.
