Ayubowan! Sri Lanka is re-opening for international tourists. As the country prepares to open its doors to the world once again, all the stops are being pulled out, ensuring that every precautionary measure has been set in place to make your island getaway as safe, secure and serene as possible.
From 21st January 2021, tourists may arrive through charter flights, scheduled flights or private jets, at both Katunayake and Mattala Airports. Arrival of tourists would be decided by the testing capacity of the private laboratories as determined by the Ministry of Health and Minister of Tourism jointly.
Travellers must undergo a PCR test from an accredited laboratory and obtain a negative result, approximately 96 hours before their flight. A Health Declaration Form should also be submitted prior to boarding, on-board the flight or upon arrival, and a COVID-19 Insurance Cover must be purchased during visa process for a value of at least $50,000 for 1 month.
Tourists are allowed to stay any number of days with no minimum requirement, provided they continue their stay at a certified ‘Safe & Secure’ (pre-booked) hotel for up to 14 days. While there is no quarantine as such, tourists are not permitted to move outside the hotel for the initial 14-day period, except for approved tourist sites by the COVID Taskforce.
Furthermore, all travelers need to pre-purchase PCR tests depending on the length of their stay, which is a mandatory requirement for the visa process as well.
The first PCR tests would be on-arrival at your hotel, prior to check-in. The second PCR test would be conducted 5-7 days after, or if any symptoms should develop before. If your stay is for 7 days you pay for 2 PCR tests. If your stay exceeds 7 days you have to purchase 3 PCR tests. Each PCR test is priced at USD 40.
For the latest health guidelines, visit www.srilanka.travel/helloagain. You will find all the information you need to plan your visit to Sri Lanka. Health & safety guidelines are published by the Ministry of Health and they will be regularly reviewed and updated.
