Sri Lanka expands visa-free entry to 40 countries from January 2026

Sri Lanka's tourism authorities confirmed that visa-free entry would be expanded to 40 countries effective 1 January 2026, continuing a push to simplify entry formalities and attract visitors from major and emerging source markets. This expansion builds on earlier visa liberalisation efforts and reflects the country's competitive positioning in regional tourism.

For travellers from eligible countries, this means no visa application process—just arrival documentation and, in some cases, a quick electronic declaration. It also signals Sri Lanka's confidence in its tourism infrastructure and its welcome to the world.

If you're from one of the 40 visa-free nations, check the official immigration website (srilanka.travel or the Department of Immigration and Emigration) to confirm your country is on the list. Visa-free entry typically means you can stay 30 days; if you need longer, a visa extension is usually straightforward to arrange once you arrive.