Sri Lanka travel restrictions, quarantine and entry requirements in September 2023

For entry into Sri Lanka

International travel to Sri Lanka is permitted. There are currently no requirements in place, such as quarantine or health testing.
For more details Foreign Travel Advice, United Kingdom

Government measures

Although restrictions are gradually lifting, they may be re-introduced at any time and preventative health measures remain encouraged. We recommend keeping up-to-date with official guidelines throughout your trip. Information relating to the COVID-19 response in Sri Lanka can be found at https://www.epid.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=comcontent&view=article&id=230&lang=en

Use of masks

Face masks are required in public spaces, enclosed environments, and on public transportation.

Public transport

Public transportation is operating with limits to capacity in place, only seated passengers are allowed on buses and trains.

Restaurants

Restaurants are open with reduced capacity to allow for social distancing. Restaurants may be closed in high-risk areas.

Bars

Bars are open with reduced capacity to allow for social distancing. Bars may be closed in high-risk areas.

Nightclubs

Nightclubs remain closed to limit the rate of transmission.

Shops

Shops and services are open at reduced capacity with adapted safety measures in place, such as the use of hand sanitizer, face masks, and social distancing. Non-essential businesses may be closed in high-risk areas.

On return

Vaccination required

Travelers are required to present a valid international certificate for full vaccination against COVID-19 with the use of an approved vaccine.
The final dose must have been administered at least 14 days before departure. Certificates must be in English or in Chinese.
Those who have recently recovered from COVID-19 and received one dose of vaccination, at least 14 days before departure, are also considered fully vaccinated.
There are exemptions for non-vaccinated citizens and residents.
Full details can be found at https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/eng/inbound-travel.html

Test/medical certificate required

Proof of a negative rapid antigen test, taken within the previous 24 hours, must be provided on departure.
Test certificates must be in English or Chinese.

Testing on arrival

A nucleic acid test will be administered upon arrival and apart from the transfer from the airport, proof of a negative test result is required to leave the place of residence.

Additional test requirements

Daily rapid antigen testing is required for the first 5 days after arrival. Additionally, travelers must undergo a PCR test on day 2.
Daily antigen results can be reported via the 'Electronic COVID-19 monitoring & surveillance system' (eCMSS). Instructions can be found at https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/eCMSSLogin.pdf