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Sri Lanka is making significant efforts to revive and strengthen its tourism sector. In February 2026, it introduced a Digital Nomad Visa and extended visa-free travel for Indian tourists. These initiatives aim to attract long-stay travellers, remote workers, and professionals who work from anywhere.
Sri Lanka Launches Digital Nomad Visa
Sri Lanka has introduced its first Digital Nomad Visa. This allows foreign remote workers to live and work in the country while being employed by companies based abroad. This move makes Sri Lanka a new destination for the global remote workforce. Here are the key features of the Digital Nomad Visa:
Duration: Valid for 365 days, renewable for another year.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be 18 years or older.
- Must work remotely for companies or clients outside Sri Lanka.
- Applicants must show a stable monthly income, as specified by the authorities.
Benefits for visa holders:
- Legal residence and long-term stay.
- Open local bank accounts, rent property.
- Access local services and co-working spaces.
Restrictions: Cannot take local employment or work for Sri Lankan companies.
The visa lets professionals enjoy Sri Lanka’s beaches, cultural heritage, and low cost of living while continuing their global careers.
>> Read More: How Indians Can Apply for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?
Tourist Visa Validity Extended
To support long-stay visitors, Sri Lanka has extended the validity of tourist visas. This makes it easier for travellers to stay in the country for longer without needing frequent renewals. This change benefits:
- Tourist visa validity extended to up to 180 days — double the previous 90 days.
- Tourists can apply conveniently through the Sri Lanka Tourist Mobile App.
- Tourist visa holders cannot engage in local employment; remote work must be tied to an overseas company or promotion.
Visa-Free Access Extended for Indian Tourists
Sri Lanka has extended visa-free entry for Indian tourists, a major benefit for Indian travellers. India is one of Sri Lanka’s largest sources of tourists, and this decision is likely to lead to more visitors in 2026. Some of the benefits for Indian travellers are:
- No visa fee for short stays
- Faster entry process
- Increased travel flexibility
Why This Matters?
These visa changes show Sri Lanka’s efforts to rebuild tourism after tough economic times and to connect with the growing digital nomad market. This approach of offering longer stays and easier entry aims to attract more visitors, boost economic activity, and showcase its culture, scenery, and hospitality to a global audience.
