Sri Lanka, Thailand discuss new visa arrangement

Wednesday, 9 September 2026 00:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Minister Vijitha Herath says Thai authorities flagged illegal activity by some Sri Lankans during visa-free period, including alleged drug smuggling by monks

Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath yesterday said Sri Lanka is negotiating a new bilateral visa arrangement with Thailand that could make travel between the two countries easier.

The discussions come ahead of Thailand’s decision to remove Sri Lanka from its visa-exemption arrangement from 15 September 2026. In May, the Thai Cabinet approved scrapping the existing 60-day visa-free scheme and updated the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry. The review looked at national security, tourism, economic interests, and whether other countries offer Thai citizens similar visa-free access.

“Thai authorities had raised concerns over illegal activities involving some Sri Lankan nationals during the visa-free period,” the Minister said, whilst specifically referring to allegations involving some monks smuggling illegal drugs.

Under the change, Sri Lankan passport holders will be required to obtain visas before travelling to Thailand.

Speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday, Herath said the visa issue would be among the matters discussed during his visit to Thailand on 14 September.

He said Sri Lanka and Thailand were already discussing a preliminary draft of a new bilateral visa agreement with the Department of Immigration and Emigration.

Herath said the new negotiations would seek to address the concerns raised by Thailand, while facilitating legitimate travel between the two countries.

“The Government is aiming to conclude the new arrangement with the Thai authorities as soon as possible,” he added.