Colombo: The Department of Immigration and Emigration has announced a free 14-day visa extension for passengers unable to depart Sri Lanka due to the cancellation of Middle East-bound flights with effect from 28 February 2026. Issuing a media notice, the Department stated that passengers who are unable to leave the country within the validity period of their visas due to flight cancellations may otherwise face legal and administrative difficulties.

According to News.LK, to address this situation, the Department has decided to grant a complimentary 14-day visa extension from the date of expiry of the current visa. The extension will be issued on a case-by-case basis, subject to verification of the relevant circumstances.

Passengers seeking the extension are required to provide proof of their inability to depart as scheduled. Acceptable documents include boarding passes, flight cancellation notices, or confirmations issued by the respective airlines.

The Department further stated that the visa extension can be obtained at the Airport Immigration Office at the time of departure, enabling affected passengers to remain in Sri Lanka legally until alternative travel arrangements are made.