In a major push to revitalise the tourism sector, the government has decided to extend visa-free entry to an additional 40 countries, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath announced yesterday (25).
The announcement was made at the inauguration of the “Hotel Show Colombo 2025” exhibition, held at the BMICH under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Minister Herath noted that the latest decision builds on a previous move to waive visa fees for travellers from seven countries, including the United Kingdom. With the new Cabinet-approved expansion, a total of 47 countries will be eligible for visa-free entry once the relevant gazette is issued.
He acknowledged that the move would cost the Treasury an estimated USD 66 million in annual revenue. However, he argued that the anticipated increase in tourist arrivals would generate far greater indirect income across the economy.
“The challenge now lies with the tourism sector to ensure this policy translates into tangible growth,” the Minister said, addressing stakeholders at the event.