Are you in the UAE on a Sri Lankan passport and dreaming of travelling the world with less visa paperwork? Visa-free countries for UAE residents with a Sri Lankan passport have expanded significantly in 2025, making international travel more accessible than ever before. With this guide, you’ll be able to use your nationality and residency together in the UAE.
The Current Situation for Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents with Sri Lankan PassportÂ
Travelling with a Sri Lankan passport is seeing important changes in 2025. At this time, people with Sri Lankan passports can visit 66 countries without a visa or through an eVisa/visa on arrival as of May 2025. Sri Lankans can now move more smoothly to other countries.
From July 15, 2024, Thailand will allow visitors to stay for up to 60 days without a visa, only for six months. The change in policy has helped residents of the UAE get great deals on trips to this top Southeast Asian destination.
Indian nationals can now visit Sri Lanka without a visa starting from October 2024, which may open the door to further agreements in the future. When this happens, people usually enjoy better travel opportunities between countries.
The current ranking of the Sri Lankan passport on the VisaGuide Passport Index, which analyses 199 countries and territories, is #178. Despite the low position, UAE residents with Sri Lankan passports are able to go to many additional countries that do not normally issue visas to Sri Lankans, thanks to their residency status in the UAE.
| Passport Ranking Metric | Sri Lankan Passport Status |
| Global Ranking | #178 out of 199 |
| Visa-Free Countries | 18 countries |
| Visa-on-Arrival/eVisa | 48 countries |
| Total Accessible Countries | 66 countries |
They indicate how international travel benefits for Sri Lankan passport holders living in the UAE have developed and offer new chances for exciting adventures in 2025.
Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents with Sri Lankan Passports in 2025
What Does No Visa Requirement Mean for Travellers?
People with UAE residency and Sri Lankan passports are not required to obtain a visa to visit a limited number of countries for a given amount of time. Because of this privilege, you do not need to spend much time planning your travel or getting a visa. Sri Lankan passport holders living in the UAE gain from two different systems: their Sri Lankan nationality and their residency in the UAE.
At most visa-free spots, you will just need to show your passport at the immigration desk. The officer will put a stamp in your passport so you may remain in the country for the allowed period as established by each country. There are places that ask for proof of onward travel, enough money or lodging reservations, even when a visa is not required.
Why You Should Consider UAE Residency as a Sri Lankan Passport Holder?
UAE residency allows people with a Sri Lankan passport to travel more freely than with the passport on its own. Although the Sri Lankan passport lets you visit 18 countries without a visa, having UAE residency can mean you can visit around 100 countries without or with only minimal paperwork.
| Travel Privilege Source | Number of Accessible Countries |
| Sri Lankan Passport Alone | 18 visa-free countries |
| Sri Lankan Passport + UAE Residency | Approximately 100 countries |
With his residency card, Anura says his travel experiences are now very different. Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan were easy for me to visit, as Sri Lankans are usually required to get a visa ahead of time for those countries.
Important advantages are:
- Ability to fly to places that have agreements with the UAE
- Applying for visas for select places is now easier.
- Getting a visa upon arrival in places where it’s always required ahead of time
- It is possible to stay longer than usual in certain locations.
Visa-Free Destinations for Sri Lankans in 2025
Caribbean and the Americas travel destinations
Having a Sri Lankan passport lets you visit many Caribbean nations with beautiful beaches, colourful cultures and no visa application required. The destinations listed are:
| Country | Maximum Stay Period |
| Bahamas | 3 months |
| Barbados | 6 months |
| Dominica | 6 months |
| Grenada | 3 months |
| Haiti | 3 months |
| Montserrat | 6 months |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | 3 months |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | 3 months |
| Venezuela | 90 days |
You can escape the hot desert climate of the UAE by visiting the Caribbean region, filled with beautiful countryside, blue waters and lots of culture. On average, it takes 16-20 hours to fly from the UAE to the Caribbean, and one or two stops are needed in Europe or North America.
Destinations in Asia and the Pacific
In this part of the world, Sri Lankans are allowed to enter several countries without having a visa first.
| Country | Maximum Stay Period |
| Singapore | 30 days |
| Tajikistan | 30 days |
| Cook Islands | 31 days |
| Kiribati | 90 days |
| Micronesia | 30 days |
| Vanuatu | 30 days |
Singapore is a special visa-free destination, famous for its outstanding attractions, shops and food. A trip to Turkey is convenient thanks to flights from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi for weekends or quieter vacations. Most places you visit will require a passport that is valid for at least six months after you plan to leave.
African Destinations
Visitors from Sri Lanka with a passport don’t need visas to enter several African nations.
| Country | Maximum Stay Period |
| Gambia | 30 days |
| Lesotho | 90 days |
Although there are fewer places on the list, they feature both remarkable culture and amazing scenery. Lesotho earns its nickname, the “Kingdom in the Sky,” because it offers mountains and village experiences that are quite different from the UAE’s busy cities.
Latest Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents with Sri Lankan Passport in 2025
Applying for a Visa Upon Entry in Asia
People from the UAE and Sri Lanka are eligible for on-arrival visas in a number of Asian countries.
| Country | Maximum Stay Period | Visa Fee (Approximate) |
| Maldives | 30 days (extendable to 90) | Free |
| Nepal | Up to 90 days | $30-$125 USD (depending on stay length) |
| Thailand | 15-30 days | ฿2,000 (approximately $55 USD) |
| Indonesia | Up to 30 days | $35 USD |
| Cambodia | Up to 30 days | $30 USD |
| Laos | Up to 30 days | $30-$45 USD |
| Myanmar | Up to 30 days | $50 USD |
UAE residents prefer the Maldives as an easy getaway destination, thanks to its excellent beaches and resorts. You can be in Azerbaijan from Dubai in only 4 hours, so it’s perfect for a quick luxury break. You will only need to show a valid passport, a return ticket and proof of your accommodation to use a visa-on-arrival.
People living in the UAE are especially drawn to Indonesia and, in particular, Bali, thanks to its beautiful beaches, interesting culture and economic luxury. Tourists are expected to pay around $35 USD at immigration, granting them 30 days to stay. To stay longer, travellers may get permission by applying at the local immigration office.
Latest Visa-Free Travel Opportunities for Sri Lankan Passport Holders in the Middle East 2025
People from the UAE with Sri Lankan passports find it simpler to visit many Middle Eastern countries.
| Country | Entry Type | Maximum Stay |
| Jordan | Visa-free | Varies by entry point |
| Bahrain | Visa-free | Varies by entry point |
| Kuwait | Visa-free | Varies by entry point |
| Lebanon | Visa-free | Varies by entry point |
| Oman | Visa-free | 14 days |
| Qatar | Visa-free | 30 days |
| Saudi Arabia | Visa-free | 90 days |
There are many cultural experiences to discover at these places, and you can fly there from the UAE in just a short time. Sri Lankan passport holders can spend 14 days in Oman without a visa. Being so near each other means you can plan short trips to these countries on the weekend.
Attending meetings or conferences in other regions is made easy for business travellers, since advance visa arrangements are not always required.
Important Places Where You Can Apply for an ETA in 2025
The way ETAs are used by Sri Lankan passport holders
Using an Electronic Travel Authorisation is usually easier and simpler than getting a standard visa. People with Sri Lankan passports can submit their applications online before travelling and often get approval in less than three days. ETA is available in the following countries:
| Country | Processing Time | Validity Period | Approximate Cost |
| India | 24-72 hours | 1-5 years (depending on type) | $25-$80 USD |
| Sri Lanka | 24-48 hours | 30 days | $20-$100 USD |
| Pakistan | 24-72 hours | 3 months | $35 USD |
| Myanmar | 3 business days | 28 days | $50 USD |
| Vietnam | 3-5 business days | 30 days | $25 USD |
| Kenya | 24-48 hours | 3 months | $51 USD |
| Rwanda | 24-72 hours | 30 days | $30 USD |
| Ethiopia | 1-3 business days | 30-90 days | $52 USD |
The process for applying for an ETA is usually simple. To get an eVisa for India, you go to the official eVisa website, complete the form, upload your passport picture and scan, pay the fee (around $25 to $80 USD) and receive your approval by email.
As of April 17, 2024, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) has been replaced in Sri Lanka with a new eVisa system. Now, eligible tourists and business people must submit their applications for an eVisa rather than an ETA.
Why ETAs Are Better Than Customary Visas in 2025?
Assisted with visa applications or ETAs, which have benefits over the usual way of acquiring a visa.
| Traditional Visa Process | ETA Process |
| In-person application at the embassy/consulate | Online application from anywhere |
| Processing time: 1-4 weeks | Processing time: 24-72 hours |
| Physical documents required | Digital document uploads |
| Limited application hours | 24/7 application availability |
| Higher fees ($50-$200+) | Lower fees ($20-$100) |
| Often requires an appointment | No appointment necessary |
Prices for a Sri Lankan eVisa depend on the type of visa, but usually they are between $20 and $100 USD. The application is handled fully through the website, and decisions are normally given within 1-3 business days.
Gaining UAE Residency Helps You Enjoy Better Travel Experiences in 2025
How Being a Resident in the UAE Increases Your Travel Choices
Having a residence in the UAE makes travel much easier for Sri Lankan travellers. Countries where UAE residents are offered consideration without regard to their passports are:
| Country | Entry Privilege for UAE Residents | Maximum Stay |
| Armenia | Entry with Emirates ID/residency card | 180 days |
| Azerbaijan | No ASAN e-visa required | 30 days |
| Georgia | Simplified entry process | Unlimited with valid documents |
| Serbia | Visa-free entry | 90 days |
| Montenegro | Visa-free entry | 90 days within a 180-day period |
With their UAE residency, many Sri Lankan expats have had luck entering nations that usually require Sri Lankans to apply for a visa. Rajith, a Sri Lankan engineer living and working in Dubai, was able to enter Georgia using his UAE residency visa and passport, as Sri Lankans normally need a visa.
Things to Prepare for Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents with Sri Lankan Passport in 2025
Essential documents you need when travelling from the UAE are:
| Required Document | Details |
| Valid passport | Minimum 6-month validity beyond travel dates |
| UAE residency visa/Emirates ID | Original document, not copies |
| Return/onward tickets | Proof of intention to leave the country |
| Proof of accommodation | Hotel bookings or host information |
| Proof of sufficient funds | Cash, bank statements, or credit cards |
| Travel insurance | Covering medical emergencies (recommended) |
Anyone with a Dubai visa is required by the UAE government to have Dh 3000, valid proof that you will stay somewhere (like a hotel reservation or a friend’s address with ID) and tickets for their return trip.
Whenever you go to a country that acknowledges UAE residency, don’t leave home without your passport and original Emirates ID or residency visa. There are countries that ask you to provide evidence of why you want to visit and the funds you have for living expenses.
Favourite Destinations for UAE Residents Holding Sri Lankan Passports in 2025
Places to Escape to in Southeast Asia
Sri Lankan citizens who live in the United Arab Emirates can find several visa-friendly ways to visit Southeast Asia.
| Destination | Best Time to Visit | Flight Time from UAE | Visa Requirement |
| Thailand | November-April | 6-7 hours | Temporary visa-free (60 days) |
| Malaysia | March-October | 7 hours | 90-day visa-free stay |
| Indonesia (Bali) | April-October | 8-9 hours | 30-day visa on arrival |
Beaches, temples and lively streets are famous in Thailand. November to early April is the best time to visit, thanks to the nice weather. Thai authorities are giving travellers 60-day visa-free entry for tourism.
Visitors to Malaysia can stay for 90 days without a visa. Kuala Lumpur is well known for its amazing skyscrapers, and Penang is famous for its old town of George Town. You should come between March and October, as it takes about 7 hours to fly from Dubai.
People often visit Indonesia for Bali’s beautiful beaches and its unique cultural attractions, since a visa is provided on arrival for stays up to 30 days. April to October is considered the best time to go, and you’ll find flights from the UAE usually take 8-9 hours.
They offer good value and a taste of different cultures, so many UAE residents choose them for their need to unwind and explore.
Top Beach Spots
Many UAE residents like to visit island destinations such as:
| Island Destination | Best Season | Visa Requirement | Approximate Budget (per day) |
| Maldives | December-April | 30-day visa on arrival | $150-$500+ |
| Seychelles | April-May & October-November | Visa on arrival | $200-$400 |
| Mauritius | May-December | Visa-free access (90 days) | $150-$300 |
The Maldives is famous for its high-end resorts and stunning, clear waters, and visitors can stay for 30 days on arrival. You should visit from December to April, the dry season, since direct flights to Seychelles from Dubai only take 4 hours.
People who visit Seychelles can benefit from a visa on arrival and enjoy the country’s wonderful beaches and nature. The best months to visit are April to May and October to November, when flights take you there in 4 to 5 hours from the UAE.
Mauritius has great beaches and is known for its varied culture, and visitors can enter without a visa for up to 90 days. You should visit between May and December because the weather at this time is cool and dry. It takes 6-7 hours to fly from UAE cities.
Anyone seeking an escape from city life in the UAE will find that these islands offer watersports, places to relax and beautiful nature.
How to Plan Your Trip Without a Visa from the UAE in 2025?
Top Moments to Enjoy Visit-Free Travel
Making a plan can improve your travel experience.
| Destination | Peak Season | Shoulder Season | Off Season |
| Thailand | November-February | March-April, September-October | May-August |
| Maldives | December-April | May, November | June-October |
| Georgia | June-August | April-May, September | October-March |
| Singapore | December-June | July-November | – |
| Malaysia | June-August | March-May, September-October | November-February |
It’s a good idea to see what local festivals and events are happening during your trip. Thailand’s Songkran celebrations in April give visitors a unique cultural experience, while fans of shopping won’t want to miss the Great Singapore Sale (held in June-August).
How Much You Should Spend on Each Type of Trip in 2025
The amount you pay for travel changes a lot from one visa-free country to another.
| Budget Category | Destinations | Daily Cost Range (USD) |
| Budget-friendly | Georgia, Armenia, Nepal | $30-$70 |
| Mid-range | Malaysia, Indonesia, Serbia | $70-$150 |
| Luxury | Maldives, Singapore, Seychelles | $150-$500+ |
Include airfare expenses in your plan, as they will change according to the time of year. As an illustration, a round trip to Southeast Asia from the UAE can be booked for only about AED 1,500-2,500, while a flight to the Caribbean might cost AED 5,000-8,000 or more.
How to Stay Longer in Places Where You Don’t Need a Visa in 2025?
Ways to Stay Longer in Visa Free Places
Countries usually have several ways to give you more time under a visa-free travel permit.
| Extension Method | Typical Process | Approximate Cost |
| Local immigration office | In-person application with required documents | $30-$100 |
| Border run | Exit and re-enter the country | Cost of transportation + new entry stamp |
| Visa conversion | Change to a different visa category | $50-$200+ |
If you go to Thailand, you can pay around 1,900 THB (nearly $55 USD) at an immigration office to get your initial visa-free period extended by 30 days. In Indonesia, you can either go to an immigration office or hire a visa agent to get an extension for $50-70 USD.
Issues Related to Laws and Rules for Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents with Sri Lankan Passport in 2025
You must keep in mind certain legal points when wanting to stay longer.
| Violation | Typical Consequence | Example Country |
| Overstaying | Fine of $10-$50 per day | Thailand: 500 THB/day up to 20,000 THB |
| Working illegally | Deportation, future entry ban | Singapore: Fines up to $20,000, imprisonment |
| Exceeding annual stay limits | Entry denial on future visits | Schengen Area: 90 days in a 180-day period |
Be sure to find out the immigration rules for each country you want to enter, since they often change. Recently, Thailand has made overstay fines larger and is checking visa rules more thoroughly, though Georgia has made it simpler for certain people to extend their stay.
Sri Lankan Passport Holders Are Now Affected By New Regulations In The Visa Policy In 2025
Positive Developments
Sri Lankan passport holders recently experienced some improvements.
| Development | Impact | Effective Date |
| Thailand’s temporary visa-free entry | 60-day stay without a visa | July 15, 2024 |
| Increased e-visa availability | Simplified application process | Throughout 2024-2025 |
| Extended stay periods | Longer tourism opportunities | Varies by country |
The Sri Lankan government has modernised its rules by switching the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to a new eVisa system from April 17, 2024. The new eVisa is processed more quickly, and the application is simpler than the old system.
Problems and Limits When Using the Sri Lankan Passport
Facing a number of everyday difficulties when using the Sri Lankan passport.
| Challenge | Affected Countries | Potential Solutions |
| COVID-related requirements | Some Asian countries | Check embassy websites for the latest requirements |
| Political situations | Countries with changing diplomatic relations | Monitor travel advisories |
| Additional documentation | Countries requiring supporting documents | Prepare comprehensive travel documentation |
Those travelling from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, the Maldives, Nigeria, North Korea, and Syria should get their Sri Lankan eVisas online and also bring additional papers to the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
Conclusion
Visa-free countries for UAE residents with a Sri Lankan passport offer an impressive range of travel opportunities in 2025. With your nationality and being a UAE resident, you can visit many places in the Caribbean, Asia, Africa, and other destinations. Because of visa-free access in 18 destinations and the UAE’s privileges, Sri Lankan passport holders can travel to many places.
Don’t forget to look up the current entry rules before you go, since visa rules might change quickly. You should use the websites of embassies, the VisaGuide Passport Index, and official immigration sites for updated details. Proper organisation will help you use your UAE residency and Sri Lankan passport to enjoy stress-free travel worldwide from 2025 onwards.
FAQs(Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. How much travel freedom does a Sri Lankan passport give its holders?
Ans. Now, Sri Lankan citizens do not require a visa to visit 18 countries and can use an e-visa or visa-on-arrival for 48 more, adding up to 66 countries by May 2025.
Q2. Would a UAE residency help Sri Lankan passport holders with their travel opportunities?
Ans. UAE residency gives Sri Lankan passport holders the chance to enter about 100 nations through visa-free or visa-on-arrival schemes, which were not an option without residency.
Q3. Is it possible to enter GCC countries visa-free only with my Emirates ID?
Ans. UAE residents should carry their passport and a valid residency visa to enter GCC countries; an Emirates ID is not sufficient. Always be certain to travel with a passport and a visa while in the region.
Q4. What do I have to present in order to enter another country without a visa?
Ans. You will need a valid passport that is valid for at least 6 months, a UAE residency visa/Emirates ID, return or onward travel tickets, a place of accommodation and occasionally proof of enough funds. Dubai visa holders have to carry Dh 3000 in cash by UAE government rules.
Q5. Can I ask for additional time in a country where I do not need a visa?
Ans. Most nations permit visitors to stay visa-free for an extra period, except if local immigration laws do not allow it. Normally, you must go to an immigration office, provide more information, make a payment and include papers showing you have money and a place to stay.
