British travellers will soon be able to enjoy visa-free entry to Sri Lanka after the island nation unveiled plans to waive fees for visitors from 40 countries.
While this has been discussed for many months, Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath has confirmed the change following a cabinet decision.
This will make it easier for Britons to travel to the Asian holiday spot, and they will join Americans, Canadians and Australians among those benefiting from the scheme.
The policy builds upon an earlier programme launched in March 2023 that initially covered seven Asian nations. Sri Lankan authorities anticipate the measure will substantially boost visitor numbers as the country aims to revitalise its tourism sector.
Sri Lanka has beautiful beaches | GETTYFor British holidaymakers, the scrapping of visa fees will mean immediate savings and streamlined travel planning. UK visitors previously faced both application costs and processing time when arranging Sri Lankan holidays.
The simplified entry requirements make Sri Lanka a more appealing option for spontaneous trips and extended stays. British tourists can now explore the island's beaches, cultural sites and wildlife reserves without navigating visa bureaucracy.
The policy places Sri Lanka alongside other visa-free destinations popular with UK travellers. It also makes a great winter sun destination.
The Sri Lankan government projects that increased tourist expenditure will compensate for the anticipated $66million (£49million) shortfall from abolished visa charges, although it has not been confirmed exactly when the change will be rolled out.
Authorities expect the influx of international visitors to stimulate job creation and support small businesses across the island, and it is not just Britons who are set to benefit.
European nations including Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands, and Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar will also get visa-free entry. The Asian markets feature prominently, with Malaysia, Thailand and South Korea also to be exempt.
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It will be easier for Britons to travel to Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka isn't the first place on many Britons' bucket lists, but it has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
If looking to enjoy beaches closer to home, an idyllic island just two hours from the UK has been praised for its gorgeous beaches and lack of crowds.
Travel advisor for Altezza Travel, Georgia Fowkes, said: "Europe is one of my favourite places for a beach holiday. With countless options for a relaxed coastal retreat, each destination carries its own story and charm. Still, a few stand out above the rest."
She recommended three places for a beach holiday, and "they are all easily accessible from the UK by a flight, a short ride or a ferry".