Sri Lanka has stopped issuing free long-term visas to Russians and Ukrainians who have been residing in the country since February 2022.

These individuals will now need to pay the standard visa fee, around $50 for a 30-day visa, if they wish to remain in Sri Lanka.

This decision comes after Sri Lanka initially offered free visas to Ukrainians and Russians fleeing the war in Ukraine.

However, the new policy only affects those who have already been in the country for two years, and they are still eligible to apply for regular visas.

Officials emphasize that this change does not affect regular tourists, who are still welcome and can avail of separate visa promotions, including continued free visas for Russians visiting Sri Lanka under a different scheme.

This move highlights Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to balance supporting those impacted by the war while promoting tourism and economic recovery.