Sri Lanka, Indonesia, India, and Maldives ease visa rules amid Middle East crisis

Destinations are offering free extensions and waiving fines for travelers stranded by airspace closures

Several tourist destinations are easing visa requirements for travelers stranded by airspace closures following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Sri Lanka, Indonesia, India, and the Maldives have all announced measures to prevent visitors from falling into irregular immigration status due to flight disruptions.

The conflict, involving Iran, Israel, and several Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain, has led to partial airspace closures affecting major transit hubs between Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Thousands of passengers have been left stranded or forced to reroute their journeys.

Sri Lanka: free 14-day visa extension

Sri Lanka has announced a special program to ensure the safety and welfare of foreign tourists currently in the country. The government is granting a free 14-day extension of visa validity for tourists affected by air travel disruptions.

Authorities are also working with airlines to explore alternative flight routes and have launched a coordinated action plan with embassies through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Operational centers are active 24/7, with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority reachable via hotline 1912 and the Bureau of Foreign Employment assistance center available at 1989.

Indonesia: emergency stay permits and waived fines

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has moved to heightened alert at major international airports, including Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta), Bali (Ngurah Rai), and Kualanamu. More than 2,200 passengers have been affected by cancellations and delays.

In a circular dated March 1, 2026, authorities outlined measures for affected foreign nationals. These include the issuance of an emergency stay permit (ITKT) valid for up to 30 days and renewable if necessary. Overstay fines have been set at zero rupiah for travelers who can present documentation from the airline or airport authority.

Immigration services at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport have deployed additional personnel and activated emergency plans. Travelers whose visas are about to expire can report directly to immigration offices for individualized processing, taking into account the circumstances.

India: contact regional registration offices

India's Ministry of External Affairs has issued an advisory for foreign nationals who need to modify their travel plans due to the situation.

Travelers needing to extend their visas or regularize their stay are encouraged to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). The approach aims to ensure that travelers already affected by flight disruptions do not face administrative violations.

Maldives: visa extensions for stranded tourists

The Maldives has announced via its immigration services that tourist visas will be extended for visitors currently in the country who are unable to depart before their authorized stay expires due to flight cancellations.

A dedicated contact mechanism has been set up by Maldives Immigration to assist impacted tourists.