Sri Lanka has announced the renewal of visa-free entry for tourists from India and several other countries, aiming to boost tourism to the island nation.
The move by the Sri Lankan government is expected to facilitate seamless travel between Sri Lanka and countries including China, Russia, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
The decision was made by the country’s Cabinet on Monday, extending visa-free entry for nationals from these countries for a 30-day visit.
Initially launched as a pilot project in October, the scheme aims to revive Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the Department of Immigration and Emigration, travellers from the aforementioned countries must apply for a visa via the website www.srilankaevisa.lk prior to their arrival in Sri Lanka. The free visa granted will be valid for a period of 30 days.
In the midst of discussions regarding visa fees, the Cabinet has resolved to maintain a $50 fee for visitors opting for on-arrival visas, valid for 30 days.
The decision comes following criticism over recent increases in visa fees imposed by a private company handling the visa issuance process.
Many stakeholders within the tourism industry expressed concerns that the higher fees and complex procedures were deterring tourists from visiting the country, which is striving to recover from its worst-ever financial crisis.
Tourism is a key source of foreign exchange for Sri Lanka, but the sector has faced significant challenges due to the pandemic and economic and political instability in the South Asian nation.
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