The abolition of visa fees for Sri Lanka has noticeably increased demand for the destination

The abolition of visa fees for Sri Lanka for Russian tourists immediately increased demand for the destination. “Russians are not exempt from the need to apply for a visa, it simply becomes free. The procedure for obtaining a visa remains the same - upon arrival at the airport, tourists fill out a special form or receive an electronic visa online,” explained Nadezhda Tarbaeva, head of the marketing department of Pantheon company.

She added that it is important to wait for the official circular from Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which should be sent to tour operators.

As Daria Domostroeva, director of public relations of Intourist company, noted, tourists react to the news in the most positive way.

“Now the cost of a holiday in Sri Lanka will significantly decrease: for example, for a family of three persons the savings will be $180. Demand for the winter is now very active, the destination is among the TOP-5 most popular for the winter, successfully competing with Thailand,” she said.

The operator Itm group said that the news immediately intensified demand. 70% of tourists are accustomed to obtain visas upon arrival in Colombo. Considering that it cost $60, free entry will be a good bonus for Russian tourists.

Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister said Tuesday that visa fees will be waived for citizens of Russia and six other countries until March 31.