World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Thailand to end visa-free travel for Sri Lankan nationals
Sri Lankan passport holders will no longer be eligible for Thailand's visa-free entry scheme from September 15. The change requires Sri Lankan travelers to obtain a visa prior to arrival or apply for one upon entry.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Thailand has announced it will terminate visa-free entry privileges for Sri Lankan citizens effective September 15, according to official notification from Thai immigration authorities. The move affects all Sri Lankan passport holders seeking to enter the kingdom.
Sri Lankans have previously enjoyed visa-free access to Thailand for tourism and short-term visits. Under the new arrangement, nationals will be required to either secure a visa from Thai diplomatic missions abroad before traveling or apply for a visa-on-arrival upon entry to the country.
The Thai government has not publicly disclosed specific reasons for the policy change. The decision adds Sri Lanka to a revised list of nations with modified entry conditions to Thailand.
Sri Lankans planning travel to Thailand should begin visa application processes immediately to avoid disruption to scheduled trips after the September 15 implementation date. Thai embassies and consulates in Sri Lanka will handle visa applications for affected travelers.