Sri Lanka announces visa-free entry for Pakistanis

Sri Lanka has announced a tourism-friendly initiative by waiving visa fees for citizens of 40 countries, including Pakistan, aiming at boosting visitor arrivals and supporting economic growth.Pakistani economy report

Under the new policy, eligible travelers can obtain a free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), allowing them to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days.

The visa waiver also includes double-entry privileges, enabling visitors to leave and re-enter the country once during the validity period.

Despite the fee exemption, travelers are still required to apply for and obtain the ETA online before departing for Sri Lanka.

Authorities have clarified that visa fees paid before the implementation of the new policy will not be refunded.

Visitors wishing to remain in the country beyond the initial 30-day period will be required to pay the applicable extension charges.

The initiative is part of Sri Lanka’s broader efforts to revive its tourism sector and attract more international travelers.

Tourism remains a key source of foreign exchange for the island nation, and officials hope the visa-free arrangement will encourage greater tourist inflows from major markets, including Pakistan.