Colombo, Sri Lanka – In a historic decision, the Sri Lankan cabinet has granted immediate visa-free travel to tourists from India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. This bold pilot initiative of allowing visa-free travel, running until March 31, 2024, is designed to enhance tourism and promote stronger connections with these countries, ushering in a new era of effortless travel to the beautiful island nation. The new policy is aimed at boosting tourism and trade between the two countries.
In the past, Indian travellers had to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) document in advance when planning a trip to Sri Lanka. However, thanks to the introduction of visa-free travel, travellers can now embark on a seamless journey without the necessity of pre-travel paperwork, resulting in time and cost savings. The goal is to make it easier for people from all over the world to visit Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lankan tourism industry has been struggling in recent years due to a number of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis. The new visa-free policy is expected to help boost tourism and create jobs in the sector.
Cabinet approves issuing of free visas to India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia & Thailand with immediate effect as a pilot project till 31 March –
— M U M Ali Sabry (@alisabrypc) October 24, 2023
Tourism in Sri Lanka is a vibrant and growing industry that plays a significant role in the country’s economy. The island nation, located in South Asia, offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for travellers.
The new visa-free policy is a welcome development for both Sri Lanka and India. It is expected to boost tourism and trade between the two countries and make it easier for people from both countries to visit each other.
Impact of the New Visa-Free Travel Policy on Indian Tourists
The new visa-free travel policy is expected to have a positive impact on Indian tourists. Indian tourists will now be able to travel to Sri Lanka more easily and conveniently. This is likely to lead to an increase in the number of Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka.
The new visa-free policy is also likely to make Sri Lanka a more attractive destination for Indian tourists. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists, including stunning beaches, lush rainforests, ancient temples, and vibrant culture.
Impact of the New Visa-Free Travel Policy on the Sri Lankan Tourism Industry
The new visa-free travel policy is expected to have a positive impact on the Sri Lankan tourism industry. The Sri Lankan government is hoping that the new visa-free policy will lead to a significant increase in the number of Indian and other tourists visiting Sri Lanka. This is likely to boost the Sri Lankan tourism industry and create jobs. The new visa-free policy is also likely to make Sri Lanka a more competitive tourist destination.
Impact on trade and investment
The new visa-free policy is also expected to have a positive impact on trade and investment between India and Sri Lanka. The two countries have close economic ties, and the new policy is expected to further strengthen their relationship. India is Sri Lanka’s one of the largest trading partners, and the two countries have close economic ties.
Conclusion
The new visa-free policy is a positive development for both India and Sri Lanka. The policy is likely to boost tourism and trade between the two countries. It is also likely to make Sri Lanka a more attractive destination for Indian tourists. The new visa policy is being welcomed by people of both countries.