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By Charumini de Silva
The Immigration and Emigration Department has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of its visa system to boost foreign investment, attract digital nomads and simplify travel.
“The move aims to make the visa process more seamless and welcoming,” Immigration and Emigration Department Controller General Harsha Illukpitiya told the Daily FT.
To facilitate these changes, the Immigration and Emigration Department has partnered with VFS Global, a leading visa outsourcing company.
On 11 December 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the signing of an agreement aimed at streamlining and improving the visa application process. This decision followed a prior Cabinet approval on 11 September that focused on making crucial decisions concerning the appointment of an authorised agent for online submissions.
The Controller General said the key improvements include the elimination of visa extension hassles.
“One significant improvement is the elimination of visa extension hassles. Under the new system, visitors can apply for visas that cover their entire stay upfront, streamlining the application process and offering greater convenience,” Illukpitiya added.
He also explained the new system introduces targeted visa options such as the Nomad Visa for online professionals, a 10-year Investor Visa and a Permanent Residency Visa for those seeking permanent residence in Sri Lanka.
“The initiative reflects a proactive stance by Sri Lanka to position itself as a preferred destination for international visitors and investors alike,” Ilukpitiya added.
In tandem with visa system upgrades, Sri Lanka is also prioritising security and travel efficiency at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).
He disclosed the implementation of an advanced biometric technology whilst outlining plans to roll out e-passports for all citizens by the end of the year.
The Controller General said that the groundwork for issuing electronic passports (e-passports) has been completed, with procurement currently underway.
“By the end of the year, all Sri Lankan citizens can expect to receive e-passports, marking a transition from traditional paper versions to modern, secure identification,” he added.
Facial recognition systems are already in place at BIA, with upcoming measures including mandatory biometric verification for all passengers, further strengthening airport security.
On 6 January, BIA implemented a facial recognition system to combat crime.
The system captures facial images of passengers arriving or departing. Equipped with 16 cameras, eight at the arrival terminal and eight at the departure terminal, BIA is poised to bolster this cutting-edge technology further.
The newly inaugurated automated face recognition system at BIA includes details from international red warrants issued by Interpol, enhancing the system’s effectiveness in identifying and apprehending criminals. What sets this system apart is its capability to identify individuals based on photos, even if they are 15 to 20 years old.
The technology can discern individuals despite changes in appearance, including those who have undergone sexual transition stages.
Upon detection of a potential match, the system emits a distinctive warning sound, alerting the CID officers to swiftly intervene at immigration counters. This proactive approach aims to apprehend criminals before they can leave the country.
