Summary

The

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See ‘Shortages’ and ‘Political Situation’ for more details.

COVID-19 entry restrictions for Sri Lanka

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Sri Lanka’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

Travelling from and returning to the UK

Check what you must do to travel abroad and return to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.

If you’re planning travel to Sri Lanka, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section. You should also check the Entry requirements section for details on COVID-19 tests and how to demonstrate evidence of your vaccination status.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

For information about COVID-19 vaccines, see the Coronavirus page.

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. More than 250 people including tourists were killed on Easter Sunday in April 2019 in terrorist attacks that targeted churches and hotels. See Terrorism

Dengue fever occurs throughout the country. See Health

Sri Lanka can be affected by severe weather including tropical cyclones and monsoon rains. See Natural disasters

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.