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Exciting news for travellers thinking about a trip to Sri Lanka in 2026: the country has finally moved forward with its plan of offering free visas to visitors from 40 countries.

The proposal, first discussed in 2024, was approved on May 7, 2026, under the country’s Immigration and Emigration Act. The plan is aimed at bringing more international visitors to the island as tourism continues to recover.

What Is Sri Lanka’s Free Visa Policy?

Sri Lanka is not offering completely visa-free entry. Travellers from the 40 eligible countries will still need to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their trip.

The main change is that the visa or ETA fee will be waived, meaning eligible tourists can get a 30-day visa without paying the usual application charge.

Complete List of 40 Countries Eligible for Sri Lanka’s Free Visa

According to the list presented in Parliament, citizens of the following 40 countries will qualify for the free visa facility:

1. Australia
2. Austria
3. Bahrain
4. Belarus
5. Belgium
6. Canada
7. China
8. Czech Republic
9. Denmark
10. Finland
11. France
12. Germany
13. India
14. Indonesia
15. Iran
16. Israel
17. Italy
18. Japan
19. Kazakhstan
20. Kuwait
21. Malaysia
22. Nepal
23. Netherlands
24. Norway
25. New Zealand
26. Oman
27. Pakistan
28. Poland
29. Qatar
30. Russia
31. Saudi Arabia
32. South Korea
33. Spain
34. Sweden
35. Switzerland
36. Thailand
37. Turkey
38. United Arab Emirates
39. United Kingdom
40. United States

ETA Still Mandatory Before Travel

Sri Lankan authorities have clarified that travellers must still complete the ETA process online before entering the country.

So while the visa fee will become free, the entry process itself is not being removed. Visitors will still need to:

• Apply online before departure
• Provide travel and passport details
• Meet standard entry conditions
• Receive ETA approval before arrival

Officials say keeping the ETA system is important for security and immigration checks.

How to Apply for Sri Lanka’s Free ETA

Travellers from eligible countries can apply online through Sri Lanka’s official ETA system before departure. While the visa fee is waived, the application process remains mandatory.

Documents Usually Required

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Return or onward ticket
• Accommodation details
• Basic travel information

Processing Time

Most ETA applications are processed within 24 to 48 hours, though applying a few days early is recommended.

Visa Validity and Conditions

• Valid for 30 days from arrival
• Single-entry tourist visa
• Can be extended up to 90 days in Colombo
• Not valid for work or long-term stays

Applicants can also track their ETA status online using their passport and reference number.

How Long Will the Program Last?

The free visa facility is expected to run for one year. The government also plans to review the scheme after six months to see whether it is helping tourism and whether it should continue.

Why Sri Lanka Is Introducing This Scheme

The Sri Lankan government believes waiving visa fees could attract around 247,000 additional tourists.

Officials estimate the country may lose about $75 million in visa revenue, but expect tourism spending to generate much higher returns for hotels, airlines, restaurants, and local businesses.