Sri Lanka to Offer Free 30-Day Visas to Boost Tourism.
Starting October 1, 2024, Sri Lanka will issue free 30-day visas to tourists from 35 countries, including Australia. This visa initiative is part of Sri Lanka’s strategy to attract 3 million foreign visitors in 2024. The list of eligible countries also includes the US, UK, China, and India.
Under this new policy, tourists will no longer be required to pay the $50 visa fee during the high season, which runs from December to mid-April. This change aims to support Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2018, the country welcomed 2.5 million tourists who spent $4.4 billion.
Resplendent Ceylon, a luxury resort, has praised the new visa policy. The resort offers unique experiences such as Ceylon Tea Trails in the tea highlands and the Wild Coast Tented Lodge at Yala National Park.
Earlier this year, Travel Weekly featured a 14-day tour of Sri Lanka organized by Inspiring Vacations.
Other Countries Relax Visa Requirements
Sri Lanka is not alone in revising its visa policies to attract tourists. Here’s a look at other countries making changes:
Netherlands: The Netherlands is now open to 191 countries, boosting the Dutch passport’s status as the world’s strongest. This move is expected to increase international travel, benefiting the Dutch national carrier KLM.
Bali: In July, Bali eliminated its $50 visa-on-arrival fee. This fee, which had been reintroduced after being scrapped in 2016, had to be paid either at the airport or online.
Thailand: Also in July, Thailand extended its visa exemption to 60 days for Australian and New Zealand travelers. This new policy applies to nationals from 93 countries and territories, an increase from the previous 57. Visitors can stay for tourism or short-term business and extend their stay for an additional 30 days at the Immigration Office.
China: In June, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a renewed relationship with China, including a new 15-day visa for Australian travelers. This policy is part of broader efforts to enhance tourism and diplomatic ties. A similar program in May allowed 12 countries, primarily European and including Malaysia, to enter China visa-free for up to 15 days.
Korea: In January, Korea introduced a new Workcation (Digital Nomad) Visa (F-1-D) to attract remote workers and K-pop fans. This visa, valid for one year with an option to extend, is available to applicants over 18 who have worked for an overseas company for at least one year and earned a minimum of 85,000,000 KRW (approximately $97,000 AUD) in the previous year.