Delay in implementing free visa system for 35 countries

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Vijitha Herath yesterday disclosed that the launch of the free-visa system for national from 35 countries, initially set for 1 October has been delayed due to the need for Parliamentary approval.

Responding to queries posed at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing, he explained that implementing the free-visa system also requires adjustments to visa fees and requires Parliamentary approval but cannot be done as Parliament is currently dismissed.

He said discussions are underway with the Attorney General’s Department to find a solution that does not require immediate Parliamentary approval.

“If we can activate it with the understanding that Parliament will approve it once it reconvenes, we are ready to move forward through a special Cabinet session,” he assured.

The free-visa initiative intended for six months was approved by the previous administration’s Cabinet on 21 August, following recommendations from an Expert Committee that evaluated the benefits of free tourist visas.

The 35 countries include: India, China, the UK, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Poland, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Nepal, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, France, US, Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Israel, Belarus, Iran, Sweden, South Korea, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and New Zealand.