From August 1, Sri Lanka will reopen its borders for tourists from across the globe.
Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo Ratmalana Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa Hambantota Airport will be operating for tourist arrivals.
All travellers will require a valid visa that will be issued for 30 days and can be extended for up to six months after arrival. Online visa applications can be accessed.
Further relaxation for long stay guests is currently under consideration, which will enable tourists to have five-year multiple-entry visas with a maximum of six months stay. Visa fee is US$100/₹7,557.
Booking details at certified accommodation (independent professional audits will be done to certify accommodation providers who will be listed on the Sri Lanka tourism website), itinerary in Sri Lanka, return ticket and proof of medical insurance are few documents needed for the visa application.
A negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test is required prior to boarding and on arrival in Sri Lanka. The test should be no older than 72 hours prior to boarding. The PCR test on arrival will be conducted free of charge.
Safety and quarantine measures on arrival include:
- No quarantine on arrival unless symptoms are detected.
- Arrangements are being made to get PCR test results within four to six hours by August — currently, it takes 24 hours to receive the results. If it takes 24 hours, you will be able to select a hotel for a one-night stay from a list of certified four- or five-star hotels in Colombo or Negombo until the test results are received.
- A further test will be done four or five days after arrival by a mobile unit in coordination with your certified accommodation provider.
- Travellers staying for more than ten days will be required to take a third test during their stay.
- In case of a positive PCR result, quarantine in a designated hotel or hospitalisation will take place depending on the details of the case. Quarantine would usually be 14 to 21 days if symptoms are detected.
Arranging transportation prior to arrival, with the accommodation provider or travel agent is recommended. Public transport should not be used.
All tourist sites will be open from August 1 with safety protocols in place. There will be no travel restrictions between districts for tourists.
