Sri Lanka has announced it will begin issuing one-year visas to Maldivian citizens starting August 1, reinstating a facility that was previously restricted according to Sri Lankan news outlet 'Economy Next'. 

The announcement was made by Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijith Herath at the opening ceremony of the Hotel Show Colombo 2025 on Friday.

Foreign Minister Herath noted that Maldivians were previously granted only short-term visas, often subject to specific conditions.

describing it as a step to strengthen people-to-people connections.

The minister highlighted that Sri Lanka was once a preferred destination for Maldivians, especially for healthcare and long-term stays.

However, tighter visa rules in recent years had significantly limited such travel. 

signalling renewed openness to Maldivian visitors.

Sri Lankan media have also reported that further details on this policy may be shared during the upcoming official visit of President Anura Kumara to the Maldives, scheduled for Monday.

According to official statistics, 16,453 Maldivians visited Sri Lanka as of June this year.

While the numbers remain substantial, they reflect a decline compared to previous years, particularly following the 2019 Easter bombings and the country’s economic downturn.

These events contributed to a notable reduction in both tourism and long-term Maldivian residency in Sri Lanka.