INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The Department of Immigration and Emigration announces that a free Visa regime is implemented for nationals of China, India, Indonesia,
Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan with immediate effect, until 31 March 2024, launching as a pilot program to rebuild the tourism
industry in line with the Cabinet of Ministers approval.Issuing a statement, the department mentioned that the foreign nationals of the
above-nominated countries possessing Diplomatic, Official, Public Affairs, Service, and Ordinary passports are eligible to enjoy a visa-free
regime under this scheme accordingly.Meanwhile, the aforesaid nationals should apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before
arriving in Sri Lanka subject to granting free of charge up to 31.03.2024, it added.Under this scheme tourists can enjoy a 30 days free visa
period and a double entry facility is permitted from the date of first arrival to Sri Lanka within 30 days, the statement
mentioned.Furthermore, free ETA under this scheme can be applied up to 31.03.2024, the department said, highlighting that this free ETA
Controller General of the Department of Immigration and Emigration took into note that this particular visa-free regime applies to the above
seven nominated countries and the rest of the countries may follow the general rules and regulations applicable to Sri Lanka ETA.
