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Saturday Dec 28, 2024
Wednesday, 24 April 2024 00:32 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
By Charumini de Silva
Tourism Minister Harin Fernando yesterday revealed plans to amend the recently implemented visa procedures, allowing tourists to apply for a single-entry 30-day visa starting from 1 May.
The move comes in response to concerns raised by industry stakeholders and aims to rectify loopholes in the new visa system launched by the Government last week.
“Public Securities Minister Tiran Alles has forwarded a proposal to the Parliament Consultative Committee to enable the online visa application process, for travellers to be charged a reduced fee of $ 50 from $ 75 at present. The committee is set to convene this week to discuss the proposal, with plans to implement the changes from 1 May,” Fernando told the Daily FT.
Addressing industry stakeholders, the Minister acknowledged their confusion and concerns regarding the Government’s initial decision.
On 17 April, the launch of new visa protocols replaced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and the 30-day single-entry visa, which compelled tourists a mandatory multiple entry six-month fee at
$ 75. However, the decision faced backlash due to concerns about its adverse effects on tourism, where critics argued the imposition of inflexible surcharges on visa fees could render Sri Lanka less competitive and deter potential visitors.
Minister Fernando also revealed plans to submit a joint Cabinet paper with Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry this week (25 April) to facilitate visa-free access for citizens of over 60 countries, to boost tourism.
“By streamlining visa procedures and expanding visa-free schemes, the Government aims to attract a broader range of international tourists, thus positioning Sri Lanka as a desirable tourist destination and boost economic growth via tourism,” he added.
