Colombo has enhanced its status as a premier South Asian destination, ranking 33rd globally for ‘Ease of obtaining a visa’ in the Brand Finance Global City Index 2024. This improvement is largely attributed to Sri Lanka’s recent policy offering visa-free entry to citizens of 35 countries, effective from 1 October 2024. This initiative has significantly increased the city’s appeal, positioning Colombo among the most accessible cities in the region.

The Brand Finance Global City Index evaluates 100 cities based on insights from over 15,000 respondents across 20 countries, considering factors such as Familiarity, Reputation, and Consideration. In addition to its accessibility, Colombo has advanced in healthcare, ranking 74th globally—an improvement of 10 places from 2023. The city boasts internationally accredited hospitals and state-of-the-art medical facilities, offering comprehensive healthcare services supported by both public and private sectors.

These developments underscore Colombo’s growing appeal as a destination for tourists and expatriates, highlighting its commitment to enhancing accessibility and quality of life.