Colombo – The government of Sri Lanka has officially launched a new policy providing free 30-day tourist visas to nationals of 40 countries, including the Sultanate of Oman. Effective from May 25, 2026, this significant policy shift is designed to revitalise the country’s tourism sector and encourage increased inbound visitor numbers. Under this new scheme, Omani citizens, along with nationals from other key markets such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, are now eligible to obtain their tourist Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) free of charge.

While the visa processing fees have been fully waived, the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration has clarified that all travellers must still complete the online ETA application process prior to their arrival. This initiative covers various passport types, including diplomatic, official, service, and ordinary passports. The visa allows for a 30-day stay with double-entry privileges, and visitors wishing to extend their stay beyond this period may do so by applying for an extension and paying the standard applicable fees. This broader programme complements existing bilateral reciprocal agreements already in place for countries such as the Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore..