The Sri Lankan government announced the reinstatement of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, effective midnight on September 26, 2024, allowing all foreigners to obtain hassle-free pre-arrival visas once again. This decision addresses the significant challenges faced by the tourism industry due to the previously implemented visa service by VFS Global.
Key Highlights:
- Reduced Visa Fees: The 30-day tourist visa fee has been reduced to $35, and for nationals from SAARC countries, the fee will be $20. Additionally, visas will be free for children under 12 years of age, promoting family tourism.
- ETA System Efficiency: The restored ETA system enables online visa applications to be processed within 24 hours, significantly improving efficiency.
- Legal Investigation Initiated: A forensic audit into the VFS Global deal has been initiated, with Public Security Minister Vijitha Herath promising legal action against any identified discrepancies.
- Court-Ordered Reinstatement: The restoration follows a Supreme Court interim order that halted the controversial VFS Global arrangement, which allegedly bypassed standard tender processes. The Department of Immigration and Emigration (DIE) requested stakeholders like Mobitel Ltd., Sampath Bank, Nations Trust Bank, and Informatics Ltd. to re-establish the ETA system as it existed prior to April 2024.
The reinstatement of the ETA system is expected to ease the travel experience for foreign visitors and boost the country’s tourism sector amidst ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy and rebuild its international image.
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Tourism in Sri Lanka Updates from Sri Lankan Government
Last modified: September 27, 2024
