No Visa, No Problem: Sri Lanka Welcomes Indian Tourists With Open Arms

Sri Lanka has opened its doors to travelers from India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. They’re letting people in without a visa. Yes, no visa is needed!

Why are they doing this? Well, Sri Lanka’s economy is in a tough spot, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic and some bad decisions around agriculture. Last year, the island showed its interest in trading in the Indian rupee amid its economic crisis.

One big way they make money is through tourism. They want more tourists to visit and spend money there. 

They’re hoping that by making it easier and cheaper to enter the country, they’ll boost their tourism. They’re looking to increase tourist numbers to five million in the coming years.

The government didn’t just stop at free visas. They’re planning to bring in an e-ticketing system for tourist sites. That way, it’s easier for travelers to go to these places, making the whole experience hassle-free.

But keep in mind, this no-visa thing isn’t forever. It’s like a trial run. They’re testing it out until March 31 to see how it goes. After that, who knows? They might extend it or roll it back based on the outcome.

Also Read: India And Sri Lanka Reconnect After 40 Years Through Ferry Service

How To Get A Visa For Sri Lanka?

Indians can get a visa for Sri Lanka in two ways including online & offline methods.

1. Online

Visit the Sri Lankan government website and fill out an online visa application. You will need to provide your passport information, travel dates, and other personal details. 

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a confirmation email. You can then pay for your visa online and print out your visa approval letter.

2. On arrival

You can also obtain a visa for Sri Lanka upon arrival at the airport. However, this is not recommended, as there can be long queues and processing times. 

If you do choose to apply for a visa on arrival, you will need to have a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and the correct visa fee.