Daijiworld Media Network - Colombo

Colombo, Apr 1: Indian tourists will continue to enjoy visa-free entry to Sri Lanka under a new initiative aimed at boosting tourism, the government announced.

Cabinet spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa said the country plans to introduce a six-month programme granting free tourist visas to passport holders from 39 countries, including India, China, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, and Australia.

Indian travellers had already been availing free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) under existing tourism promotion measures, and the new scheme will ensure continued visa-free access.

Jayatissa said draft regulations under the Immigration and Emigration Act will be presented before Parliament for approval.

Authorities expect the move to further boost tourist inflow. Sri Lanka recorded around 2.3 million tourist arrivals in 2025, with India accounting for the largest share, contributing nearly one-fifth of total visitors.