qatar visit visa requirements for sri lankan citizens

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Visa details

Citizens of over 102 countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to the State of Qatar. Allowable lengths of stay vary, and visitors are kindly advised to check with an authorised entity for the terms and conditions that apply.

Visa requirements

Visiting Qatar made easy

Visitors from all around the world can enter Qatar either by obtaining visa on arrival, or by filling out simple online applications, depending on the passport they carry.

This webpage  is designed to keep you up-to-date on the visa policies that are relevant to you, and the process you need to follow to apply for a visa, if necessary.

Visa-free entry

Nationals of eligible countries do not require any prior visa arrangements and can obtain a visa waiver upon arrival to Qatar, by presenting a valid passport with a minimum validity of three months and a confirmed onward or return ticket. 

For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 30 days in Qatar.

Andorra, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Falkland Islands, French Guiana, Georgia, Guyana, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Macao, Macedonia, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Suriname, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay, Uzbekistan Vatican city and Venezuela.

For nationals of the countries/regions listed below, the waiver will be valid for 180 days from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to spend up to 90 days in Qatar during either a single trip or on multiple trips.

Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Ukraine. 

Qatar-Oman Joint Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival)

This visa is issued upon arrival and is valid for 30 days for the State of Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman. It allows for multiple entry to both countries and is extendable for an additional 30 days for a fee. Citizens of the following countries are eligible for the joint visa:

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City

Visa on arrival – mandated hotel requirement

The Ministry of Interior Qatar currently requires nationals of the countries / regions listed below to hold registration booked through   Discover Qatar website   prior to travelling to Qatar.

India, Iran, Pakistan, Thailand.

Tourist visas

The Qatar tourist visa is available to nationals of all countries, except GCC citizens, but citizens of over 101 countries are eligible for a free visa on arrival (see Visa-free entry above). Travellers of select nationalities will require to pay a fee to obtain a visa on arrival or apply for a tourist visa prior to travel. Visas can be applied for on the  Hayya platform for a cost of QAR 100. 

Afghanistan, Åland Islands, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Angola, Anguilla, Antarctica, Aruba, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and  Saba, Botswana, Bouvet Island, British Indian Ocean Territory, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Comoros, Congo, Congo (the Democratic Republic  of Congo), Cook Islands, Côte d'Ivoire, Curaçao, Djibouti, Dominica, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Faroe Islands (the), Fiji, French Guiana, French Polynesia, French Southern Territories, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guernsey, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Heard Island and McDonald  Islands, Holy See (the), Honduras, Iran, Iraq, Isle of Man, Jamaica, Jersey, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Korea (Democratic People's  Republic of Korea), Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Macao, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Micronesia (Federated States  of), Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn, Puerto Rico, Réunion, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Helena, Ascension and  Tristan da Cunha, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin (French part), Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Vincent and the  Grenadines, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sint Maarten (Dutch part), Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Georgia and the South  Sandwich Islands, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Swaziland, Syrian Arab Republic, Taiwan (Province of China), Tajikistan, Tanzania, United Republic of  Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, United States Minor Outlying Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Virgin Islands (British), Virgin Islands (U.S.), Wallis and Futuna, Western Sahara, Yemen, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Applying for a visa using the Hayya platform

Thanks to a host of visa facilitation measures, Qatar is now the most open country in the Middle East. Visitors from all around the world can now enter Qatar either by obtaining visa on arrival, or by filling out simple online applications, depending on the passport they carry.

This webpage is designed to keep you up-to-date on the visa policies that are relevant to you, and the process you need to follow to apply for a visa, if necessary.

Hayya card validity extended until 2024

Are you a Hayya Card holder living outside the State of Qatar? We’ve got news! 

The validity of the Hayya Card has been extended and will now allow Hayya Card holders to enter the State of Qatar until February, 2024.

Travel requirements: 

- Proof of a confirmed hotel reservation or accommodation with family or friends approved through the Hayya portal

- Passport valid for no less than three months upon arrival in the State of Qatar 

- Valid health insurance during the period of stay in the country. We recommend all travellers visiting the State of Qatar to have a valid health insurance policy covering Qatar's medical facilities. Those who don’t already have an insurance policy are welcome to purchase one on arrival in the State of Qatar. For more information on travel insurance, click  here .

- Return tickets

All Hayya card holders visiting Qatar will have access to the following:

- The 'Hayya with Me' feature' allowing Hayya Card holders to invite up to three family members or friends

- A multiple-entry permit 

- No fees will apply

Qatar Transit Visa

Qatar Airways passengers transiting in Hamad International Airport for a minimum of 5 hours are eligible to apply for the Qatar Transit Visa. It is free of charge, valid for up to 96 hours (four days) and open to passengers of all nationalities**.

For more information about Qatar Transit tours, please click  here .

Visa Exemptions

Nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates) do not require a visa to enter Qatar.

Mandatory health insurance

We recommend all travellers visiting the State of Qatar to have a valid health insurance policy covering Qatar's medical facilities. Those who don’t already have an insurance policy are welcome to purchase one on arrival in the State of Qatar. For more information on travel insurance, click  here .

* Service fees only apply. ** All visas are approved and issued at the sole discretion of Qatar's Ministry of Interior.

Disclaimer: All visa rules and policies for international visitors are subject to change without notice and are approved and issued at the sole discretion of Qatar's Ministry of Interior.

Get expert help to book a dream Qatar trip

Need some help planning your next Qatar holiday or business trip? With Qatar Concierge, our dedicated travel team is here to help you book flights, plus guide you on the best hotels, restaurants, attractions and more. Call  0161 527 4409  and they’ll be happy to help. Please note that this service is not for visa queries, please visit our  Visa page  for more information.

Things to know before travelling

Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.

Getting here

Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.

Travel tips

Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.

Getting around

From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.

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Insurance policy, minimum passport validity.

Rules of entry and stay

Transit rules

Entry with pets

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Qatar lifted all coronavirus restrictions

Visa issues

If you do not need a visa to enter, the total period of stay in the country should not exceed 30 and 90 days within 180 days (depending on which country you are arriving from).

Please   follow the link   and select your country to find out the conditions of entry to Qatar and length of stay.

Citizens who do not have the right to enter the country under the visa-free regime are required to have a visa. A visa confirms the consent of the country's authorities to the entry and stay of a specific person on its territory.

Types of visas

You can make your planned trip to Qatar by obtaining a Qatar visa. Foreign citizens can come to Qatar on short-term visas (e-visa) for temporary reasons (tourism, business, cultural, and other short-term purposes).

Qatar E-visa is valid for 30 days and is considered single-entry. You can extend the validity of your visa in Qatar for the next 30 days.

Documents required for obtaining an e-visa to Qatar

A passport that must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of your return from Qatar. In addition, the passport must be issued within the last 10 years and contain at least 1-2 free "visa pages"

Travel route (Confirmed hotel reservation, ticket)

If you will be staying with family / friends - an invitation (power of attorney), their identity card and Qatari residence permit, a copy of the rental agreement for their house

When you arrive in Qatar, you must also provide:

Printed e-visa to Qatar

The aforementioned documents

Qatar E-visa processing time

The applicant is guaranteed to receive a response to his/her visa application through the portal within 48 hours.

Qatar E-Visa fee

The visa fee for a Qatar E-visa starts from 100 QAR (about 27 USD) depending on the citizenship.

Where to apply for a Qatar E-visa?

Tourists who want to visit Qatar can apply for a visa through the   Hayya platform   or through the Hayya application on their smartphones in four easy steps:

• Register on the Hayya platform.
• Upload the necessary documents.
• Submit the visa fees, if required.
• Receive the Hayya permit approval.

The new e-visa to Qatar is issued in 3 categories based on nationality, residency, and other international visas the traveller already has. The categories are: 

A1: inter national visitors from all countries who are not eligible for visa on arrival or visa-free entry.

A2: GCC residents working in all kinds of professions. 

A3: international visitors who have residency or visa for Schengen, UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. They will receive an accelerated approval and they do not need to have an accomm odation booking through the Visit Qatar platform for their visit to the country.

Travellers who have to enter Qatar through the Abu Samra border will get a pre-registration option through the Hayya platform for quicker entry for their vehicles. 

How can I contact Hayya for support?

Hayya Contact Center can be contacted by calling 2022 from within Qatar, and +974 4441 2022 from outside of Qatar, or by sending an email to [email protected] .

We also recommend watching video instructions on how to apply for a visa on the Hayya platform here:   https://hayya.qa/en/web/hayya/how-to-guides  

Additional documents

When entering Qatar, a foreigner must have:

Passport or another valid travel document;

A valid visa or other valid document giving the right to enter and stay in this territory, if required;

In the case of transit through Qatar to another country, a permit to enter another country or a permit to stay in another country.

All foreign nationals who are required a visa to enter Qatar can transit through Qatar without a visa for 5 hours, but only if they stay in the airport transfer lounge. To transit through Qatar for a longer period and to be able to leave the airport lounge an approved transit visa for the country is required.

A Qatar transit visa is issued free of charge and is valid for 96 hours (4 days). Transit visas cannot be extended in Qatar. If you want to stay in Qatar for more than 4 days, you should apply for a Qatar visa.

You can apply for a Qatar E-Visa online through this site . Your E-Visa will be sent to your email address as soon as it is ready.

To import pets into Qatar, all pets must have:

Microchip for pets. Your pet must be chipped with a 15-digit unencrypted microchip that complies with the ISO 11784/11785 standard.

Vaccinations. Your dog or cat must have a valid rabies vaccination after chipping.

Health certificate. A licensed veterinarian must complete a medical certificate for Qatar 14 days before entering the country.

T o learn more about the rules for importing your pets, visit the link.

For information and advice on Qatar customs regulations, please visit: https://www.customs.gov.qa/English/Procedures/UnifiedGuide/Pages/default.aspx

Cars drive on the right in Qatar.

Permissible speed:

• City roads / main urban areas - 60 km / h
• National highways / Intermunicipal roads - 120 km / h

Please note that when you travel to Qatar, your local driver's license will not be sufficient to drive legally. One of the requirements for driving in Qatar is to have an international driver's license.

Contacts of Qatari embassies in different countries of the world can be found at the link .

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• I applied for insurance, but haven’t received the code. What to do? In this case, we advise you to reload the page, clear the cache, change the language on the page, or use another browser.
• What should I do if I haven’t received the policy to the specified mail for more than 30 minutes? Please, contact the hotline and provide the data specified when applying for the insurance.
• I cannot pay for the insurance, what should I do? If your payment fails, we recommend contacting your bank, they often do not trust payment systems. You need to confirm that it is you who are doing the transaction.
• Where can I read the terms and conditions of my insurance contract? You can read about the terms of the insurance contract on our website in the section of the insurance policy registration.
• What if I have purchased a policy but my trip is canceled? Please inform the hotline of the portal about the reasons for the trip cancellation, and we will gladly reschedule your dates

VisitWorld.Today is a service platform for tourists, migrants, expats, which provides free information on the rules of entry and legal stay in all countries of the world for the purpose of tourism, work (business), study, treatment, obtaining a residence permit and/or citizenship.

Our goal is to collect on one site all the necessary information on the rules for crossing borders and legal stay in any country of the world for a citizen of any country in the world. Make it easy for users to find this information and explain it in plain language.

• You can order the following services on the resource:
• • insurance products (travel, health insurance);
• • legal consultations (local experts on a wide range of visa and migration issues);
• • checklists (step-by-step guides for entering the desired country – from obtaining a visa to naturalization).
• Advantages of VisitWorld.Today:
• • coverage of all countries of the world
• • accessibility and ease of use
• • information on 5 basic categories (purposes of entering the country)
• • information in 7 languages ​​with further expansion
• • 24/7 customer support (English speaking)
• • legal assistance is provided by qualified local specialists
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• VISIT WORLD LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY
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• Terms & Conditions

Qatar Embassy in

Colombo - democratic socialist republic of sri lanka, consular services, citizen services, issuance of passports.

Qatari citizens abroad can apply for new passport in case of Passport loss or expiry.

Beneficiaries of this service :

Citizens sent for treatment or study abroad, as for nationals residing outside the State, prior consent is required.

Service Procedures:

The expired or damaged passport will be sent by official post of the consular administration, then the mission receives new passport with old passport and hand them over to the citizen.

Terms and requirements:

• Fill a form for a new passport and sign it by the concerned person, or their legal guardian if they were underage, the form should be stamped by the mission and signed from an executive consular.
• Attach the original passport.
• Attach (2) personal photos with grey background, photo size should be ( 4.8X 3.5 ).

Service fees:

(100) QR for expired passports

(400) QR for damaged/lost passports

Issuance of passage permits to return to Qatar

A passage permit  can be issued to Qatari citizens to return to Qatar if they lost their passports.

            Beneficiaries of this service:

            Qatari citizens abroad.

            Service Procedures:

• The Qatari mission abroad addresses the department of nationality and passports in the Ministry of Interior, after receiving the reply, a passage permit will be issued with an approval reference.
• Passage permits are valid for three months from the date of issuance.
• Passage permits are valid for only one entry to the State of Qatar only.

            Terms and requirements:

• Register the loss of passport at the nearest police station abroad.
• Copy of the passport or identity card showing the national number.
• (2) Personal photos.

Issuance of passage permits for newly- born babies.

A passage permit for newly- born Qatari babies abroad.

Beneficiaries of this service:

            Qatari citizen’s newly-born babies.

• Passage permits are valid for only one entry and to the State of Qatar only.
• Copy of the passport or identity card of the parents showing the ID number.
• Copy of the birth certificate attested by the official authorities and by the Mission.

Issuance of official authorization.

The mission of the State of Qatar can issue a general or private authorization.

  Beneficiaries of the service:

            Qatari citizens living abroad permanently or temporarily.

• Requires the citizen to attend personally to the consular official.
• Print the information of the authorization on mission’s headed-paper.
• An authorization application is to be submitted to the Head of Mission after ensuring the validity of the information and that the applicant is in a normal state of mind.
• Elderly people and persons with special needs are exempted from appearing before the mission, instead the mission itself will visit them to complete procedures.
• A copy of the passport or identity card showing the their numbers should be attached with the application.

 (20) Qatari Riyals.

Issuance of “to whom it may concern” certificate.

This certificate  can be issued to Qatari citizens upon request.

            Beneficiaries of the service:

Qatari citizens abroad, travelling for study or medical  treatment or other purposes. 

• The Qatari citizen fills an application requesting the issuance of such certificate , addressed to the Head of Mission stating the reasons for residing outside the country.

            Terms and requirements::

• A copy of the passport or identity card should be attached with the application.
• Provide a prove for residing outside the country, in case of travelling for medical treatment or study.

(20) Qatari riyals

Transport of dead body.

Transporting dead bodies of Qatari citizens back to the State of Qatar.

Deceased Qatari citizens outside the State of Qatar.

• Relative of the deceased should notify the mission of the State of Qatar on the death of the citizen.
• The mission will take necessary actions to transport the body to the State of Qatar.
• Original passport and validated documents relating to his death should be submitted to the mission.
• Notify the Department of Consular Affairs about the Date and time of sending the body to make arrangement with the airport.

Terms and requirements::

• The mission is to send by mail documents related to the deceased consisting of:
• A copy of the passport.
• A copy of the death certificate.
• A copy of the post-mortem report (and any other documents).

Official Visa Service

Official delegations. 

Service Description:

The Service is to provide an official visa for official delegations, except for those  exempted from visas, to meet with officials from the Amiri Diwan, the ministry of foreign affairs, and officials from ministries, governmental authorities and institutions, or to attend conferences held by ministries, authorities or institutions 

• Submit visa application attaching all required documents.
• Submit –along with the application- applicant passport valid for not less than six months.
• Two photos of the applicant.
• The visa is issued for all nationalities within (24) hours of data entry in the automated system.
• The visa is valid for three months from the date of issuance, the visa holder should enter the country before the end of the validity period.
• The visa holder can stay in the country for a period of one month from the date of entry.
• This visa can be extended for a similar period for multiple times.

Business visa

Businessmen and known commercial figures. 

The Service is to provide a business visa for businessmen and known commercial figures, to visit Qatar to improve investment relations between their countries and the State of Qatar. 

• Businessmen should provide the mission with evidence proving that they are businessmen, unless they were known commercial figures.
• This visa can be extended for a similar period ( for maximum three months).

Tourists. 

The service is to provide a visit visa for tourists, to visit Qatar and explore its monuments of historic, commercial, architectural and cultural value . 

• Applicants should provide a bank statement for the previous three months, showing a minimum balance of 5,000 QR, financially capable applicants known by the mission, are exempted from this condition.
• It is recommended to have a hotel reservation in the state of Qatar in a four or five star hotel.
• This visa cannot be extended.

GCC Resident Visit Visa

GCC residents. 

The Service is to provide GCC residents with approved professions a visit visa to enter Qatar. 

• Applicants should provide a GCC residentship valid for six months ( three months minimum) .
• The visa is issued for all nationalities immediately after data entry in the automated system.
• This visa can be extended for a period of three months.

Entry visa for companions of GCC Nationals

Companions of GCC citizens such as maids, drivers and baby-sitters. 

The Service is to provide an entry visa for the companions of GCC citizens to visit the country with their sponsors.

• Applicants should provide a GCC residentship valid for six months (three months minimum) for the companions of GCC citizens such as maids, drivers and baby-sitters (under the sponsorship of the gulf citizen) .
• This visa can be extended for a similar period (three months maximum).

Transit Visa

Travelers who plan to stop over in Qatar  in their way for  a third destination. 

Travelers who plan to stop over in Qatar in their way for a third destination, the visa is valid for (2) days.

• This Visa doesn’t apply for travelers passing through Qatar, these passing - through travelers don’t require a visa, and will be allowed to enter the country if their transit time is more than six hours, with a commitment from the airlines company.
• The visa is valid for (1) one month from the date of issuance, the visa holder should enter the country before the end of the validity period.
• The visa holder can stay in the country for a period of (2) two days from the date of entry.

Joint Tourist Visa – for visiting Qatar and Oman

Residents of the 33 approved countries. 

The Service is to provide residents of the 33 approved countries with an entry visa to visit Qatar first and then visit Oman.

• The visa is issued for residents of the 33 approved countries immediately after data entry in the automated system.
• The visa holder can stay in the country for a period of (1) one month from the date of entry.

Immediate Tourist Visa

The nationals of Turkey, Poland, Hungary and Cyprus. 

This service enables the nationals of Turkey, Poland, Hungary and Cyprus to obtain an immediate tourist visa to enter the State of Qatar.

• The visa is issued for the nationals of Turkey, Poland, Hungary and Cyprus immediately after data entry in the automated system.

Visa fees: ​

All Nationalities. 

This service enables all nationalities (except GCC citizens) to enter the State of Qatar.

• The visa is issued for all nationalities (except GCC citizens).
• The visa is valid for (3) three months from the date of issuance, the visa holder should enter the country before the end of the validity period.
• This visa can be extended for a similar period (six months maximum).

Re-issuing a Visa

This service enables individuals who previously obtained an electronic visa through the General Directorate of Borders, Passports and Expatriates Affairs to be given  a new visa to enter the country.

• Some individuals who previously got an electronic visa through the General Directorate of Borders, Passports and Expatriates Affairs might have to visit Qatari Embassies or consulates abroad to stamp the visa on their passports
• Re-issuance of official visa is exempted.

Attestation

Attestation of commercial documents.

Citizens, Expats, Business, investors and visitors.

The  service aims to provide a legal approval of the commercial documents to be used in and outside Qatar, documents such as:

• Country of origin.
• Bill of lading (Manifesto).
• Commercial contracts.

The Department of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its branches (five branches at present and will be  eight branches at the beginning of next year) ratify the stamp or Signature of the chamber of commerce or any other ministry or authority approved by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

General instructions:.

• The document sent for attestation must include a group of stamps and signatures ending with a stamp and signature approved by Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• The authorities of the Government of the State of Qatar are responsible for ratification of documents issued by them, as well as copies of those documents.
• Qatar chamber of commerce approves stamps and signatures of some translation offices.
• If the information on an attested document or any of its signatures or stamps, turns out to be incorrect, the attestation will be considered void and null, in which case the department of consular affairs will reserve the right to file claims to the concerned authorities in Qatar.

 Commercial Documents attestation fees:

Civil documents.

Citizens and Expatriates

Service description :

It is a service that aims to impart  legal status on civil documents for use inside and outside the State of Qatar, including the following letters:

• Letters issued by the government to its employees, whether they are Qataris or expatriates.
• Letters issued by the institutions under the supervision of government authorities and state departments to citizens and expatriates.
• Letters issued by accredited diplomatic missions of the State of Qatar.
• Letters issued by citizens and attested from the Ministry of Justice , the Supreme Judiciary Council, or the Ministry of Interior.
• Letters of definition, Disclaimer letter and NOC issued to residents from their employer companies that are members of Qatar chamber of commerce, the Ministry of Labor, or the Ministry of Economy and Trade.
• Expatriates employment contracts or partnership contracts and all documents related to companies and institutions.

The Department of Consular Affairs  at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its branches (five branches at present and will be eight branches at the beginning of next year) ratify the stamp or Signature of the chamber of commerce or any other ministry or authority approved by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

• The Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its affiliates shall not be responsible for the contents of the document. However, they 'll refuse to ratify any document that its content proves to be contrary to the regulations of the State of Qatar.

Personal Documents

Citizens and expatriates .

It is a service that aims to impart  legal status on  personal documents for use inside and outside the State of Qatar, including the  following documents:

• Birth and death certificates (citizens and expatriates)
• Copies of Passports and Identity Cards (citizens and expatriates)
• Free of precedents certificate (citizens).
• Free of precedents certificate (expatriates). 
• All documents relating to individuals.

The Department of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its branches (five branches at present and will be eight branches at the beginning of next year) ratify the stamp or Signature of the chamber of commerce or any other ministry or authority approved by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

• The Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its affiliates are not responsible for the contents of the document. However, they 'll refuse to ratify any document that its content is proved to be contrary to the regulations of the State of Qatar.

Judicial Documents

It is a service that aims to impart  legal status on  judicial documents for use inside and outside the State of Qatar, including  the following:

• Judiciary letters and arbitration documents from within the State of Qatar by Supreme judiciary Council.
• Judiciary letters and arbitration documents from other countries by its concerned legal authorities.
• The document applied for attestation must include a group of stamps and signatures ending with a stamp and signature approved by Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• The Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its affiliates are not responsible for the contents of the document. However, they 'll refuse to ratify any document that its content proves to be contrary to the regulations of the State of Qatar.

Educational documents

Citizens, expatriates  and visitors. .

It is a service that aims to impart legal status on  Educational documents for use inside and outside the State of Qatar,  such as the following:

• Education certificates issued by Qatar University.
• Education certificates issued by foreign Universities in Qatar, and approved by Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development.
• Education certificates issued by Qatari schools and attested by the supreme educational council.
• Education certificates issued by foreign schools in Qatar and attested by the supreme educational council.
• Diplomas issued by schools or institutes operating in Qatar, attested by the supreme educational council or any other government institutes.
• Educational and medical certificates issued outside the State of Qatar and ratified by Department of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign affairs or any of its subsidiaries.

The Department of Consular Affairs  at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or any of its branches (five branches at present and will be eight branches at the beginning of next year) ratify the stamp or Signature of the chamber of commerce or any other ministry or authority approved by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Medical documents

It is a service that aims to impart legal status to medical documents for use inside and outside the State of Qatar such as the following letters:

• Medical documents issued by hospitals or health centers under the supervision of the supreme council of health.
• Medical documents issued outside Qatar and attested by the supreme council of health, Ministry of Foreign, and Qatar’s mission in the country of issuance, or the country’s mission in Qatar.

The Department of Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or one of its branches (five branches at present and  will be eight branches at the beginning of the next year) ratify the stamp or Signature of the chamber of commerce or any other ministry or authority approved by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

• The authorities of the Government of the State of Qatar are responsible for ratification of documents issued by themselves, as well as copies of those documents.

Other documents

Foreigners in qatar, issuance of “to whom it may concern” certificate to be used for a driver’s license application..

Qatar’s Diplomatic and Consulate missions abroad receive applications of concern to previous residents who left Qatar permanently, through coordination with the directorate of consular affairs.

Previous residents who left Qatar permanently. 

Qatar’s Diplomatic and Consulate missions abroad will send the application to the directorate of consular affairs, which in turn 'll send it to the concerned department (Traffic department under Ministry of interior), and sends the reply to the mission after receiving it.

• Send a clear copy of the driving license to the directorate of consular affairs

service fees:

Validation of educational certificates

An application to validate educational certificates issued in Qatar to residents who graduated from schools or universities of Qatar, in order to use these certificates for studies or work in other countries .

Qatar’s Diplomatic and Consulate missions abroad will send the application to the directorate of consular affairs, which in turn 'll send it to the concerned department (supreme educational council or the concerned university), and sends the reply to the mission after receiving it.

• Copy of the educational certificate

Service fees: Exempted

Issuance of “Good conduct” Certificate.

Requested by previous residents in Qatar to be used in their own affairs.

Qatar’s Diplomatic and Consulate missions abroad will send the application to the directorate of consular affairs, which in turn  'll send it to the concerned department (Criminal Evidences and Information Department), and sends the reply to the mission after receiving it.

• A letter stating the reason of requesting this certificate, and the period of residency in Qatar.
• An original copy of the fingerprints form issued by the security authorities, and attested by the mission.
• Copy of the passport including the residency sticker, and a copy of the new passport (if applicable).
• Four personal photos (4X6)

• Qatar Visa Exemption

Qatari visa for Sri Lankan citizens

Visa requirements:, qatar tourist visa requirements:.

• Holding Sri Lankan passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of the intended stay in Qatar.
• Proof of onward travel (departure) from Qatar.

If you are looking for Qatar visa information, such as available types of visas, or how to apply from Sri Lanka, we recommend you visit or contact the embassy or consulate of Qatar nearest your place of residence.

• Colombo : The Embassy of Qatar in Colombo, Sri Lanka (Working hours: Open now. Close in 6 hours 52 minutes )

Tourism Statistics Chart

The line chart shows the number of visitors from Sri Lanka traveling to Qatar from 2008 to 2018.

References: UNWTO.org , World Bank and multiple sources. (This data is for informational purposes only. Please see our disclaimer page for more information.)

Qatar & Sri Lanka comparison

Qatar's area is approximately 11,610 km2 (4,482 sq mi), while the area of Sri Lanka is approximately 62,710 km2 (24,212 sq mi). This means Sri Lanka is 5.40 times bigger than Qatar.

As of May 2024, Qatar's population is ~3.1 million people - 18,692,570 fewer people than the population of Sri Lanka.

We have highlighted Qatar & Sri Lanka’s relative positions on world's map for your reference.

Frequently asked questions, answered

How many visitors from sri lanka travel to qatar in one year.

The number of visitors from Sri Lanka visiting Qatar in 2018 was approximately 3,639.

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• Doha to Colombo: 3436.65 km (2135.44 mi)
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This page was last updated on: May 2024

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Qatari tourist visa for Sri Lankan nationals and permanent residents in Sri Lanka can be granted to a foreigner who does not have a residence or occupation in Qatar and whose sole objective of visiting Qatar is for recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives.

General Qataris Tourist Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Nationals & Residents of Sri Lanka

Please check from Qatari Visa Information to see if you will need a holiday visa to go to Qatar or the up-to-date tourist visa requirements for Qatar.

• Fully completed Qatari Tourist Visa Application Form and essential declaration
• Passport size photographs
• Valid national passport and one copy
• Original of valid visa if you’re citizen of another country and one copy
• Your latest bank statement and one copy
• Confirmation of travel insurance for Qatar showing the coverage and one copy
• Reference letter from your employer or education establishment
• Proof of group travel if you are travelling in a group
• Proof of accommodation booking reservation for Qatar and one copy
• Proof of airline ticket reservation for Qatar and one copy
• Qatari visa fees for Sri Lankan nationals and residents in Sri Lanka

Please notice: In individual circumstances, you may be asked to produce additional documents. Qatari embassy procedures and policies can and do, alter overnight. We take no responsibilty for any such changes or any transaction initiated directly between an applicant and the Qatari embassy in Sri Lanka

Looking for a cheap flight from Sri Lanka to Qatar? Use the flight search tool on this website to find, compare and book the cheapest flights to Qatar.

It is very easy and quick to find the best flight deals from Colombo to Qatar where many airlines fly to major cities around the globe. You can search many internet flight websites to book the best flights to anywhere in the world.

Alternatively use flight booking websites like Sky Scanner, where you can search flight offers from airlines and travel agents in one place to get the best flight deals.

Travelling from Sri Lanka and need to book a hotel room in Doha or other cities Qatar? There are many ways to find, compare and book the cheapest hotels.

If you need to stay at an airport in Qatar for one night or you have an early flight, why not take a look at the cheap airport hotels deals in Qatar from the Airport Accommodation links on this web page to find the best airport hotel room option to suit your needs.

Find the best hotel room in and around Qatar which best fits your requirements.

Want to rent a car in Doha or other cities in Qatar? There are many ways to find, compare and book the best car rentals.

Here, you’re certain to find a vehicle from the top car rental companies in Doha including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty. Our secure car rental booking system lets you compare the latest deals in an instant and find a car hire that suits your budget.

Qatar Visa requirements for Sri Lanka citizens

You need an e-visa to travel to qatar, having to get a visa to qatar takes all the fun out of traveling. we are here to get it back. just apply online below and let us do the rest.

When deciding to travel for a holiday, business trip or perhaps a long term endeavour, it is vital to be aware of whether the country you wish to visit, requires you to obtain a visa. This will depend on the country that you hold a passport for. An e-visa is an electronic version of a visa, whereby you can complete the application online, normally by submitting information, as well as evidence and payment onto a website. This saves the hassle of having to visit an embassy or visa application centre in person.

However, it can still take time to be approved and so it is important to be aware of the timescales involved. If you use an expert visa company, make sure you ask them these details before agreeing to anything, to make sure it fits in with your travel plans.

Each country has its own agreements in place with other countries, about visa requirements or even whether its citizens can enter without a visa at all (visa-free). There will be certain travellers whose passports will allow entry to a wide range of countries and so will allow for smoother travel arrangements. Don’t be caught out by failing to do your research in plenty of time and take advantage of our expert tools and guidance.

Here is a list of all of the countries of passport holders that will need an e-visa to enter.

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Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens Visiting Qatar in 2022

Are you from Sri Lanka? Are you planning on traveling to Qatar? If you answered yes then this article is perfect for you.

Before booking your flight, you may be wondering: Do Sri Lankan citizens need a visa to enter Qatar? What visa do I need to travel to or visit Qatar? What are the visa requirements for Qatar? How long can I stay in Qatar on e-visa?

The majority of Sri Lankan residents are asking themselves these questions. As the world becomes smaller with modern technology and easier travel options, it’s normal to want to travel to different parts of the globe.

If you’re looking to travel to another destination and don’t know the Visa requirements, this can be a bit challenging.

Luckily, we’ll be discussing the visa requirements as well as other important information regarding traveling to Qatar with Sri Lankan passport.

It is important to plan ahead before traveling to ensure that everything goes smoothly. To aid you in this, we’ve created this article that provides helpful information on what you should do prior to traveling to Qatar.

We will discuss what type of visa you need to enter or visit Qatar, as well as how long you can stay in Qatar if your visa is approved.

This article will tell you all you should be aware of when applying for a visa for a trip to Qatar as a citizen from Sri Lanka.

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About Qatar

Qatar is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It is renowned for its vibrant culture and diversity. It offers numerous possibilities for visitors to get to know its rich history and cultural heritage.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to spend your vacation or simply want to discover a new place, Qatar is a fantastic option!

One way to gain an understanding of the uniqueness of this country is to go to one of the numerous tourist attractions!

There are many things that make this nation distinctive. It is rich in history, which can be observed in all areas and landmarks. Additionally, it has a diverse population with people from all over the world who reside in the city.

If you are planning on traveling there soon ensure that you check out some of these attractions, so you do not be missing everything!

Qatar is a country in the Middle East and is considered to be one of the most modern countries in the world. It has been ranked as one of the best places to visit in the world. Qatar is beautiful, exotic, and full of history with a mix of cultures from around the world. It's also a great place for travelers who want to explore different cultures, learn about their own culture, and enjoy their time away from home. Qatar's climate is moderate year round with little seasonal change so it's perfect for people who want to travel outside their comfort zone or experience new things. The best time to visit Qatar would be during winter months when temperatures are relatively cool compared to summer months which can get really hot!

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Visa Requirements for Visiting Qatar With Sri Lankan Passport:

In this article we will go over the requirement for visas for Qatar. However, before you get the desire to visit Qatar be aware that there are numerous types of visas, each with its own conditions.

When you are planning your trip to Qatar , there are numerous aspects to take into consideration, such as the requirements for visas to enter the country. Although no two countries follow identical procedures however, each has specific requirements to obtain visas. This will help you determine whether your trip is worth the expense and effort.

If you plan to visit any other country, the first thing you should be sure of is that you have all necessary documentation required to apply for a visa.

In order to apply for a visa there are a variety of documents you will need, such as evidence of income or employment. The requirements will differ based on which type of visa you are applying for, so be certain to verify before you make any plans!

E-visa is required to enter this country. E-visa stands for Electronic Visa, also known as the Online Visa or Digital Visa. It is a systematic procedure designed to save the passengers from tiring and long-term bureaucratic processes. Plus, it also creates an efficient alternative to visas issued at the border. Travelers can apply for visas online to the country they wish to visit. All they need to do is, visit the official website of the embassy of the country and make a Visa request by providing all the required credentials and go through the mentioned process on the site, they may also need to pay a small fee for the e-visa using their credit card. Nonetheless, these visas are usually issued mainly for touristic purposes. Please check with the embassy of the country for the requirements and the application process.

In the end, it’s crucial to know how Qatar visas operate and how they can impact the travel plan you have in mind. This article offers an overview of the procedure, you should also consult with the local consulate or embassy for more information about your particular situation.

Last Updated: 16/09/2022

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory September 5, 2023

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the  country information page . 

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp. 

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.  

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the  Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by  e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the  Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations  in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the  Embassy of Sri Lanka website  for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies.  Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions 
• Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys ;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel. 

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited  dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port. 

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance.  If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners. 

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)  

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For Additional Travel Information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, sri lanka map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

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Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

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Electronic travel authorization (eta).

With effect from 1st January 2012, all holiday or business travellers visiting Sri Lanka must have a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Please visit www.srilankaevisa.lk for more information.

The ETA requirement is applicable to all nationalities except nationals of the Republic of Maldives, the Republic of Singapore and the Republic of Seychelles, who on the basis of reciprocity, are exempt from this requirement. (Those who hold passports of listed countries in this URL and travel to Sri Lanka from 01.08.2019 to 31.01.2020 for tourist purposes are exempted paying ETA fee, in view of enhancing tourist arrivals from designated countries – Department of Immigration & Emigration of Sri Lanka)

When applying ETA by third parties, payments should be made through the provision on our website www.srilankaevisa.lk and an acknowledgment should be received. Any payments made to other websites or agencies are not valid to process a valid ETA. Therefore, always ensure that the payments made by accessing to www.srilankaevisa.lk website and avoid making repayment at the port of entry to Sri Lanka. (Visa will not be issued for Syria, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana,Ivory Coast  and North Korea Nationalities)

The purpose of the Sri Lankan visa is to facilitate the legal entry of non-Sri Lankans into Sri Lanka and to regulate the length and conditions applicable on their stay.

The competent authority for issuing Sri Lankan visas is the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Diplomatic Missions of Sri Lanka abroad are authorized to issue visa on behalf of the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka.

​Launching of New Sri Lanka Visa Sticker The Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka has introduced a new Machine Readable Visa Sticker (MRV), replacing the present visa issuance system, which complies with the standards of ICAO, while also incorporating universally recognized security features.

The newly introduced visa sticker has been launched with effect from 15 June 2016 at the Head Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.

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Visa requirements for citizens of Qatar travelling to Sri Lanka :

Electronic visa or visa on arrival. Citizens of Qatar can either obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) prior to travel, or alternatively can obtain a visa on arrival when travelling to Sri Lanka.

Check current Covid-19 entry requirements before travelling.

— FAST FACTS —

Capital: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte

Location: Southern Asia

Currency: Sri Lanka Rupee

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Visa Requirements for Citizens of Sri Lanka

Discover visa requirements for nationals of Sri Lanka to travel to every country across the world.

Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens

Visa requirements for nationals of Sri Lanka are entry restrictions that the authorities of other countries around the world have placed on Sri Lankan passport holders. These requirements differ depending on the destination country, the purpose of the travel and how long the visitor is planning to stay.

According to the Henley Passport Index, the Sri Lankan passport is currently the 99th most powerful in the world, ranked in terms of travel freedom. Passport holders from Sri Lanka can visit currently visit over 30 countries around the world without a visa or with a visa on arrival option.

The majority of the visa-exempt countries allow nationals of Sri Lanka to gain entry to their borders for short periods of stay , which can vary from 1 to 6 months, depending on the destination. Visa-free travel is usually permitted for purposes of tourism, business, or transit .

Some of the visa-free countries for citizens of Sri Lanka require travelers to pre-register an electronic travel authorization before departure, in order to pre-identify any so that any potential security or health risks.

If travelers from Sri Lanka are planning a trip to these same visa-exempt countries for longer periods of stay, or for other purposes such as to study or work , they will need a visa.

Likewise, Sri Lankan citizens wish to visit any non-visa-exempt country, they are required to obtain the relevant travel authorization, which can vary between an embassy visa, a visa on arrival, or an electronic visa through a simple online form.

List of Visa Countries for Sri Lankan Passport Holders

Holders of a Sri Lankan passport who are planning to travel to a territory not on the visa-exempt country list need to obtain the correct travel authorization to do so, no matter the purpose of the trip or the duration.

Visa requirements for nationals of Sri Lanka currently state that there are around 230 countries across the world for which it is necessary to obtain an approved vis a to gain entry.

It is necessary to apply for an embassy visa for Sri Lankan travelers for over 180 countries , which must be obtained well in advance of the departure date, from the nearest government diplomatic office of the destination.

An additional 30 countries offer Sri Lankans the option to submit an electronic travel visa authorization application which will grant them an eVisa or online visa waiver before departure.

Around 20 countries also permit visitors from Sri Lanka to obtain a visa on arrival , although this often involves waiting in long queues at a border entry checkpoint. Some of these countries also offer an online eVisa form , which greatly expedites the application process.

Below you can find further information about the countries for which citizens of Sri Lanka require a visa to gain entry.

Electronic Travel Visa Authorization

Electronic Travel Visa Authorization systems allow Sri Lankans to apply for either an electronic visa waiver or an eVisa for their country of destination.

An electronic travel visa authorization permits visitors from Sri Lanka to obtain the correct travel authorization through an online application form, saving the traveler the need to apply in person at an embassy or wait in line at a border entry point.

Around 30 countries currently have an electronic application option for citizens of Sri Lanka.

An electronic travel visa authorization for citizens of Sri Lanka permits stays that vary between 28 days and 3 months, depending on the destination. It can be issued as either a single or multiple entry permit.

Most approved eVisas and electronic travel authorizations are electronically linked to the holder’s passport . Therefore, holders of an eVisa or online visa waiver are usually required to travel with the same passport they used to obtain the travel authorization.

A copy of the approved eVisa or authorization is also sent to the applicant’s email address in many cases. It may or may not be necessary to print a paper copy to present upon arrival, depending on the destination.

Find below a full list of the countries for which travelers from Sri Lanka need to obtain an electronic travel visa authorization.

Countries for nationality

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• Ivory Coast
• New Zealand
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan
• United Arab Emirates

Visa on Arrival

A Visa on arrival is a type of entry document that citizens of Sri Lanka can obtain at border immigration checkpoints of some countries once they arrive at their destination.

The list of visa on arrival countries for Sri Lankan passport holders currently includes around 20 territories, including a number of African nations.

This type of visa authorizes holders to spend between 7 to 90 days and can be issued as either a single or multiple entry document, depending on the country of destination.

Travelers from Sri Lanka who are arriving in one of these countries are able to go directly to an entry checkpoint so they can obtain a visa on arrival application form from an immigration officer. However, this may involve a substantial waiting time , as long queues may form at border control in many countries.

Once applicants complete a visa on arrival form with personal, passport and travel information,it is usually necessary to pay a fee in cash in the local currency .

It is important to note that several visa on arrival countries also offer the option to obtain an eVisa in advance of travel . This saves Sri Lankan citizens the need to wait in line at the border upon arrival, and also allows them to make a visa fee payment electronically .

See below for a list of countries that offer visas on arrival for nationals of Sri Lanka.

Visa on Arrival: Country list

• Guinea-Bissau
• Timor-Leste

Embassy Visa Required

Embassy visas are a type of travel document which Sri Lankans need to obtain in advance of travel , from the nearest embassy or consulate of their destination in Sri Lanka.

At the moment there are over 180 countries for which an embassy visa is required for Sri Lankan nationals, regardless of the reason for the visit or the amount of time they plan to spend.

An embassy visa for Sri Lankan passport holders may be issued for a range of periods of permitted stay and for a variety of purposes, such as for tourism, business, transit, or to study or work .

Embassy visa requirements for citizens of Sri Lanka normally state that applicants need to make a consular appointment well in advance of their expected departure date, as the visa processing time may be over 2 weeks or more.

Sri Lankans are usually required to bring a completed embassy visa application form to their appointment, alongside with some additional supporting documentation that varies depending on the purpose of the intended stay.

Find below a complete list of the countries for which Sri Lankan passport holders are required to obtain an embassy visa.

Embassy Visa Required: Country list

• Afghanistan
• Aland Islands
• American Samoa
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• British Virgin Islands
• Brunei Darussalam
• Burkina Faso
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island
• Cocos Islands
• Cook Islands
• Czech Republic
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• Norfolk Island
• North Korea
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Palestinian Territory
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Pitcairn Islands
• Puerto Rico
• Republic of Cyprus
• Russian Federation
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Helena
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon
• Saudi Arabia
• Sint Maarten
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• Svalbard and Jan Mayen
• Switzerland
• Syrian Arab Republic
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Kingdom
• United States
• United States Virgin Islands
• Vatican City
• Wallis and Futuna

Visa Not Required

Below you will find a complete list of countries for which a visa is not required for Sri Lankan passport holders for short stays, which can vary between 1 to 6 months, depending on the destination.

This list is currently made up of around 15 visa-free countries , including a number of Caribbean island nations and Southeast Asian territories.

Travelers arriving in visa-exempt countries are simply able to present a valid Sri Lankan passport to gain access to their borders.

Sri Lankan citizens are usually able to gain entry to visa not required countries for purposes of either tourism, business, or to transit to another country of final destination.

To visit these same countries for longer periods of time or for purposes such as to work or study, nationals of Sri Lanka will need to obtain an embassy visa from a diplomatic office of their destination before departure.

Browse the list below to check if you can travel from Sri Lanka without a visa to your country of destination.

Visa Not Required: Country list

• Federated States of Micronesia
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Visa requirements checker

Latest news.

Sri Lanka has announced an extension of its visa-free entry initiative for visitors from 7 countries until April 30, 2024. Citizens of India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand were first approved for visa-free entry by the Cabinet of Ministers in October 2023. The program was initially due to last until March 31. However,

China has broadened its 15-day visa-free policy for citizens of certain countries to include an additional 6 European nations. As of March 14, 2024, nationals of Austria, Belgium, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Switzerland will be able to enter mainland China without a visa for short trips. This change in China’s visa policy is designed to

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has announced that nationals of 53 countries can now enter Kurdistan visa-free.  The new visa exemption applies to many European nationalities, as well as to citizens of a number of countries in Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. “Under this new policy, eligible travelers simply need to present their passports at

In a strategic move to rejuvenate its tourism sector post-pandemic, Vietnam is considering extending visa exemption to more countries. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has ordered the Vietnam Ministry of Public Security to evaluate the addition of 13 countries to the visa-exemption policy based on bilateral cooperation. The move is expected to target the potential

Disclaimer Handyvisas.com is not owned by, or affiliated with any government agency. We are a private, online agency that provides assistance in submitting applications for tourist visits to different countries around the world. Applications can also be made directly through government websites.

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