The granting of free visas is expected to increase tourist arrivals to five million over the coming years and the move is also expected to boost the bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka.  

Colombo: In a significant decision that will enhance the bilateral ties between the two countries, Sri Lanka Cabinet on Tuesday approved decision to issue free visas to India and other countries. The other nations where free visa has been approved include China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand.

Taking to X, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka Ali Sabry said, “Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia & Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March.”

Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia & Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March –

— M U M Ali Sabry (@alisabrypc) October 24, 2023

The development comes after the Ministry of Tourism last week announced that a Cabinet paper had been presented during the previous Cabinet meeting, proposing the issue of free tourist visas to foreigners from five countries who intend to visit Sri Lanka as tourists.

According to a report by India Outbound, citing officials of Tourism Ministry, the granting of free visas is expected to increase tourist arrivals to five million over the coming years. The move is also expected to boost the bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka.

Reports suggest that the Sri Lankan government is also actively considering introduction of e-ticketing system for most of tourist sites in the country.