According to a Cabinet proposal submitted by the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, several foreign travellers scheduled to depart Sri Lanka before the expiry of their visas have been stranded since February 28, 2026. The situation arose after a number of airlines suspended services to destinations in the Middle East following escalating regional tensions.
In response, the government has decided to allow affected tourists to remain in Sri Lanka legally until alternative travel arrangements become available.
Under the approved resolution, tourists impacted by the flight disruptions will receive a 14-day visa extension free of charge. Authorities have also stated that if airline cancellations continue, the visa extension may be renewed for an additional 14 days without any payment.
Cabinet officials said the decision was made in recognition of the exceptional circumstances caused by the suspension of flights and to ensure that travellers stranded in the country are not penalized for overstaying their visas.
The measure aims to provide temporary relief for tourists while the situation in the Middle East continues to disrupt international travel schedules.
