Sri Lanka to reopen borders in August under rigid guidelines

Sri Lanka is in the midst of preparation of reopening its borders to international visitors starting August 1. Sri Lanka Tourism has prepared guidelines and precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of residents and tourists.

The country’s major airports, Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo Ratmalana Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa Hambantota Airport, will be operating for tourist arrivals.

All travellers will require a valid visa that will be issued for 30 days and can be extended for up to six months after arrival. Further relaxation for long stay guests is currently under consideration, which will enable tourists to have five-year multiple-entry visas with a maximum of six months stay. Visa fee is USD 100.

In order to apply for a visa, tourists must have the following:

• Booking details at Certified Accommodation
• Itinerary in Sri Lanka
• Return ticket
• Proof of medical insurance

A negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test is required prior to boarding and on arrival in Sri Lanka. The test should be no older than 72 hours prior to boarding. The PCR test on arrival will be conducted free of charge.

Upon arrival, safety and quarantine measures must be followed:

• No quarantine on arrival unless symptoms are detected.
• Arrangements are being made to get PCR test results within four to six hours by August — currently, it takes 24 hours to receive the results. If it takes 24 hours, you will be able to select a hotel for a one-night stay from a list of certified four- or five-star hotels in Colombo or Negombo until the test results are received.
• A further test will be done four or five days after arrival by a mobile unit in coordination with your certified accommodation provider.
• Travellers staying for more than ten days will be required to take a third test during their stay.
• In case of a positive PCR result, quarantine in a designated hotel or hospitalisation will take place depending on the details of the case. Quarantine would usually be 14 to 21 days if symptoms are detected.

Arranging transportation prior to arrival, with the accommodation provider or travel agent is recommended. Public transport should not be used.