Cabinet Approves Proposal to Extend Visa Validity for Foreign Nationals

13-Mar-2026

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Cabinet has approved a proposal to extend the visa validity period of foreign nationals without charging a fee, following disruptions caused by the cancellation of flights routed through the Middle East.

Due to the prevailing situation in the Middle East, flights to the region have been cancelled since 28 February 2026, preventing several foreign nationals who had planned to leave Sri Lanka from departing before the expiry of their visas.

Considering these exceptional circumstances, arrangements are required to enable such travellers to remain legally in Sri Lanka until alternative travel arrangements can be made.

Accordingly, the Government has decided to extend visa validity for 14 days free of charge for foreign nationals unable to leave Sri Lanka due to the flight cancellations to Middle Eastern destinations from 28 February 2026.

Cabinet has also approved a proposal submitted by the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs to extend this period by a further 14 days without charge if the flight cancellations continue.