Free 14‑Day Visa Extension for Travellers Hit by Middle East Conflict

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved an emergency measure to extend visas for tourists who have been unable to leave the country due to widespread flight cancellations across the Middle East since February 28, 2026.

According to the proposal submitted by the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, several travellers who were scheduled to depart before the expiry of their visas were stranded after airlines suspended services to the Middle East because of the ongoing regional conflict.

The government has decided that these tourists should be allowed to remain in the country legally until alternative travel arrangements become available.

Under the approved resolution, affected tourists will receive a 14‑day visa extension free of charge. If flight cancellations continue, the extended visa may be renewed for another 14 days without any payment.

The Cabinet stated that the measure was taken in consideration of the special circumstances surrounding the disruption of flights and the need to facilitate the legal stay of those unable to depart.