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In a significant move to bolster its economy, Sri Lanka has extended visa-free entry to travellers from 40 countries. This expanded policy, confirmed by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath on July 25, 2025, builds upon an earlier scheme benefiting seven nations.
Since March 2023, Sri Lanka had been offering complimentary 30-day tourist visas to citizens of India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. The program, initially a six-month trial, has now been substantially broadened, removing visa fees for these new eligible nationalities. While travellers still need to obtain an electronic travel authorization, the payment requirement has been lifted.
Full list as Sri Lanka waives visa fees for 40 countries
Read more: https://t.co/aLrf688vUr#lka #srilanka #adaderana #news #lanka #srilankanews #visa #VisaFree #visafees #srilankatourism #tourism #tourists
โ Ada Derana (@adaderana) July 25, 2025
While the government anticipates a loss of approximately USD 66 million in annual visa revenue, Minister **Herath** emphasized that the anticipated increase in tourist arrivals is expected to yield greater economic benefits. He stated, We have stabilised the economy, and through policy changes in tourism, we aim to ensure steady growth in arrivals.
The countries now eligible for visa-free entry include Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, The United Arab Emirates, The United Kingdom, and The United States.
This policy shift is part of a broader strategy to revive Sri Lanka’s economy, which has faced significant challenges. By making travel more accessible, the nation aims to attract a larger volume of international visitors, boosting sectors such as hospitality and local commerce. For instance, a 2023 United Nations World Tourism Organization report indicated a global rise in tourism receipts, highlighting the economic potential of robust visitor numbers (UNWTO, 2023).
Jakarta – The Henley Passport Index has once again declared Singapore as holding the world’s most powerful passport for 2025, granting its citizens visa-free access to an remarkable 193 destinations out of 227 worldwide. This ranking, released on July 22, sees a slight decrease from the 195 destinations previously reported in January.
The index, a global standard for assessing the travel freedom afforded by a nation’s passport, highlights the continued dominance of Asian nations at the forefront. Following Singapore, Japan and South Korea share the second position, offering their citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 190 destinations. South Korea, in particular, has seen an upward movement, climbing one rank from its January position.
European nations also feature prominently in the top echelons. Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Spain collectively occupy the third spot with access to 189 destinations. Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and Sweden are close behind in fourth place, each offering access to 188 destinations.
Rounding out the top five are greece, New Zealand, and Switzerland, tied for fifth place with access to 187 destinations. The United Kingdom follows in sixth place with 186 destinations, while Australia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Malta, and Poland share the seventh position with 185 destinations.
Canada, Estonia, and the UAE are ranked eighth with access to 184 destinations, followed by Croatia, Latvia, Slovakia, and Slovenia in ninth place with 183 destinations.The top ten is concluded by Iceland, Lithuania, and the United States, each offering access to 182 destinations.
In contrast, Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the index, with its citizens able to travel visa-free to only 25 destinations. Indonesia, meanwhile, holds the 66th position, providing its citizens with visa-free access to 74 countries, placing it on par with Eswatini, a small country in Southern Africa.
The Henley Passport Index is a crucial indicator of global mobility and international relations, reflecting the diplomatic ties and reciprocal agreements between nations. Its annual rankings provide valuable insights into the interconnectedness of the world and the ease with which citizens can navigate international borders.
(bnl/wsw)
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Jakarta – In a move poised to boost tourism and trade, the Chinese National Immigration Agency (NIA) has announced that Indonesian citizens can now enter China without a visa for transit stays of up to 240 hours, effective today, June 12. This addition brings the total number of countries benefiting from this policy to 55.
Citizens from these 55 countries, including Indonesia, Russia, and the United Kingdom, are eligible for the 240-hour visa-free transit. To qualify, travelers must possess valid international travel documents and confirmed onward tickets, including specified dates and seats, to a third country or region.
Travelers can enter China through 60 designated ports located across 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Permitted stays extend up to 10 days within specified areas.
Did You Know? In 2023, China saw a 293% increase in inbound tourism compared to 2022, signaling a strong recovery in international travel[[Statista].
During this visa-free period, visitors can engage in tourism, business activities, exchange programs, or family visits. However, engaging in activities such as employment, education, or news reporting still necessitates prior approval and the appropriate visa, according to the NIA.
The inclusion of Indonesia in the 240-hour transit visa-free policy is viewed as a significant step in implementing principles related to relations with neighboring countries. This initiative underscores China’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation with ASEAN member states.
This policy is expected to enhance bilateral relations, facilitate trade and investment, and foster cultural exchanges between China and Indonesia.
Pro Tip: Before planning your trip, check the specific entry and exit points covered by the 240-hour visa-free transit policy to ensure your itinerary aligns with the regulations.
Looking ahead, the NIA has stated it’s intention to further deepen institutional openness in immigration management. This includes refining policies to streamline entry and exit processes for immigrants and enhancing the overall environment for foreign nationals seeking to study, work, and reside in China.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible nationalities | Citizens from 55 countries, including Indonesia, Russia, and the United Kingdom |
| Required Documents | Valid international travel documents, confirmed onward tickets to a third country/region |
| Maximum Stay | 240 hours (10 days) |
| Permitted Activities | Tourism, business, exchange visits, family visits |
| Restricted Activities | Employment, education, news reporting (require appropriate visa) |
The expansion of the visa-free transit policy is anticipated to significantly impact tourism in China. By simplifying entry procedures, China aims to attract more transit passengers, encouraging them to explore Chinese cities during their layovers. This initiative aligns with global trends in tourism, where simplified visa processes often lead to increased visitor numbers[[World Travel & Tourism Council].
What destinations in China would you most like to visit during a 240-hour transit?
How do you think this policy will affect business and cultural exchanges between Indonesia and China?
China’s visa policies have undergone significant changes in recent years, reflecting its evolving approach to international relations and economic progress. The introduction of the 240-hour visa-free transit policy is part of a broader strategy to enhance China’s attractiveness as a global hub for business and tourism. Similar policies have been implemented in other countries, such as Singapore and South Korea, to boost their respective tourism sectors[[Japan Ministry of Justice].
Overstaying the permitted transit period can result in fines, detention, and potential bans from future entry into China. It is indeed crucial to adhere to the specified time limit.
Changes to onward tickets may require reporting to local authorities. It is advisable to confirm any changes with immigration officials to ensure compliance with the policy.
The policy applies to designated ports and regions within 24 provinces, autonomous regions, and cities. Travelers should verify the specific areas covered by the policy before planning their transit.
Disclaimer: This article provides general data and should not be considered legal or immigration advice. Always consult with relevant authorities for specific guidance.
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