In a significant change to its immigration regulations, Thailand will require Sri Lankan travelers with ordinary passports to obtain a visa for entry starting September 15, 2026. This decision will officially remove Sri Lanka from Thailand’s visa exemption program, which currently permits visa-free entry for tourists.
As per the existing guidelines implemented in July 2024, individuals from 93 nations, including Sri Lanka, have been permitted to visit Thailand without a visa for a duration of up to 60 days. However, a new revision will limit the list of countries eligible for visa exemption to just 60. Consequently, Sri Lanka, along with 20 other nations, will be completely excluded from this arrangement, necessitating that travelers from Sri Lanka arrange for a visa prior to their journey.
For those already making travel plans, it is important to consider the date of arrival. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that the new visa requirement will take effect for entries on or after September 15, 2026. Sri Lankan nationals arriving in Thailand on or before September 14, 2026, will still be able to enter without a visa and maintain their allowance for a 60-day visa-free stay.
Submit Your Press Release
Get your company news, announcements, launches, appointments and events in front of a wider audience.
