On-arrival PCR testing will no longer be required for fully-vaccinated travellers who receive a negative result on a PCR test conducted within 72 hours of departure.

At present, persons are allowed to travel to Sri Lanka only if they test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of departure.

The regulations come into effect on 1 October and will apply to both Sri Lankans and foreigners. The arrivals exempt from on-arrival PCR will not be required to undergo quarantine once they arrive in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankans who are not fully vaccinated can be tested at the airport or a quarantine hotel and will be permitted to return to their place of residence if their on-arrival PCR is negative. They will be released from quarantine if the day 12 PCR is also negative.

Persons who do not have facilities for home quarantine will be required to undergo 14-day quarantine at a hotel of their choice or a State-run quarantine centre.

Foreign arrivals who are not fully vaccinated will be directed to their hotel, maintaining a bio-bubble, and will be subjected to a PCR test at the hotel.

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