The validity of the free visa program for nationals of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan, as introduced by the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DOIE) has been extended indefinitely.

As a temporary resolution to this matter, foreign nationals can now use the old ETA system to apply for tourist and business visas.

Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration and Emigration (DOIE) has temporarily suspended operations of the new online eVisa platform to improve the system.

October 21, 2023: The Cabinet of Ministers of Sri Lanka has expanded the visa-free entry program for tourists from Mainland China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia and Thailand...

Please be informed that the Cabinet of Ministers of Sri Lanka has now approved visa- free entry for travelers from seven countries as a pilot project with immediate effect until 31st March 2024.

The Sri Lanka government announced that the period of validity for expired Tourist Visas and Residence Visas will be extended from 30 more days until Nov. 6, 2021.

The government of Sri Lanka will increase immigration fees for processing certain visa documents, passports, and travel authorization types throughout December 2022.

The Sri Lankan government has announced a new permanent residency scheme that will allow individuals of Sri Lankan descent and their dependents to obtain a Permanent Residence Visa in Sri Lanka.

The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has issued an interim order suspending the recent visa outsourcing agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL), VFS Global, and GBS Technology Services.

On 28 April 2022, the government of Sri Lanka approved new long-term residence categories for foreign national investors.