The government of Sri Lanka has recently taken a decisive decision to boost its tourism sector by reintroducing a single-entry visa. This initiative responds to the concerns of tourism professionals and foreign visitors, who have been critical of the rising costs associated with the ETA system. Scheduled to come into force by June 2024, this new visa, issued online or on arrival, will not only be accessible but will also be offered at an attractive rate of 35 USD. The aim of this measure is to simplify access to the country while guaranteeing enhanced security standards.
The government of Sri Lanka has recently taken a significant decision that will change the way in which tourists access to this magnificent country. In response to the concerns of tourism professionals and foreign travellers, a new system of single-entry visa will be reintroduced, replacing the complex and costly ETA system. This visa will be available at a cost of 35 USDThis is a much more attractive option for visitors, while maintaining the government's ambition to guarantee the safety and security of its visitors. security its borders.
A return to favour for the single-entry visa
At a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 25 April 2024, it was agreed to reintroduce the single-entry visa for tourists. This visa system will allow visitors to enter Sri Lanka for a period of 30 daysThis change follows criticism of the increase in consular fees associated with the advance ETA system, which did not effectively meet the needs of travellers. This change follows criticism of the increase in consular fees associated with the prior ETA system, which did not effectively meet the needs of travellers.
Undeniable advantages for tourists
The single-entry visa greatly simplifies the process of obtaining a visa. Travellers will no longer have to navigate through complex and costly procedures to visit Sri Lanka. Instead, with a fixed cost of 35 USD (excluding VFS fees and transaction costs), this option seems much more affordable for many people. tourists. In addition, this new approach aims to attract more visitors, which could revitalise the sector. touriststill weakened by the previous disturbances.
Measures to enhance safety
The Minister for Tourism, Harin Fernando, stressed that, although the reintroduction of this visa was intended to simplify access to the country, the importance of the health and security. He referred to concerns about the ETA system, which was proving vulnerable to the creation of false accounts and other abuses. The government is aware that visa requirements that are often too high can discourage visitorsBut it is also imperative to guarantee the nation's security through stricter monitoring of entries.
Additional options for frequent travellers
Alongside the introduction of the single-entry visa, a system of multiple-entry visas remains available. This is mainly aimed at digital nomads and frequent travellers who wish to spend an extended period in Sri Lanka. This allows a specific category of visitors benefit from greater flexibility while continuing to boost the local economy through their presence.
Additional support for certain countries
The Minister also revealed that discussions are underway concerning the possibility of exempting certain countries from visa fees during specific periods. This initiative, inspired by previous programmes for targeted countries, could enhance Sri Lanka's attractiveness as a tourist destination. The recent measure, which has benefited seven countries until the end of April 2024, is an example of the government's efforts to stimulate the flow of tourists to Sri Lanka. tourists.
Facilitating administrative formalities
In short, the relaunch of the single-entry visa highlights the Sri Lankan government's commitment to facilitating administrative formalities for tourists. By re-establishing a more cost-effective and accessible system, Sri Lanka is positioning itself as a destination of choice in the global tourism market. The changes are designed not only to re-establish a vital sector for the national economy, but also to ensure a safe environment for all visitors. For more information, the government and various informative online platforms will help you navigate the process of obtaining these new visas.
Comparison of visa options for Sri Lanka
| Type of visa | Details |
|---|---|
| Single-entry e-Visa | Valid for 30 days, issued online or on arrival, cost USD 35. |
| Multiple-entry visas | Designed for digital nomads and frequent visitors with variable costs. |
| Terms and conditions of issue | New system approved in April 2024, implementation scheduled for June 2024. |
| Possible exemption from charges | A committee is studying an exemption for certain countries during specific periods. |
| Safety risks | The ETA system has flaws, requiring a change to secure the entrances. |