The Indian High Commission has announced that it will continue to facilitate the swift and convenient issuance of visas to Sri Lankan nationals under its existing visa policy.
In a statement, the High Commission said Sri Lankans travelling to India could also apply for visas through the electronic visa facility.
Those wishing to apply through the Indian High Commission must submit their applications online and hand over the relevant documents to Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) located in Colombo, Kandy, Jaffna, Hambantota and Batticaloa.
The High Commission said visas would be facilitated and issued expeditiously to Sri Lankans travelling to India on pilgrimages, including visits to Buddhist religious sites.
It has also reintroduced the scheme granting free visas to groups of 10 or more pilgrims when recommended by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs.
The scheme had been temporarily suspended following a change in the visa service provider. It was reintroduced after the new service provider commenced operations on 7 July 2026.
Groups comprising 10 or more pilgrims may apply under the scheme. Applicants may visit an ICAC either collectively or individually to provide their biometric information.
Under new regulations introduced by the Indian Government, biometric data are mandatory for applicants aged between 12 and 70. The High Commission said the collection of biometric data would help facilitate smoother immigration procedures upon arrival in India.
No visa fee will be charged from Sri Lankan pilgrims applying under the scheme, the High Commission stressed, adding that there was therefore no question of any change to visa fees for eligible pilgrims.
However, applicants are required to pay a service charge of Rs. 1,855 to the ICAC for processing the visa application.
