Sri Lanka is making headlines by eliminating visa fees for tourists from five key nations, including China, Russia, India, Thailand, and Indonesia. This strategic move is set to transform Sri Lanka into a more accessible and appealing destination while fostering global ties.
In a significant move to promote tourism and bolster international relations, Sri Lanka is set to waive visa fees for travellers from five prominent nations.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Tourism and Lands, Harin Fernando, who disclosed that a joint Cabinet paper with Minister of Public Security, Tiran Alles, has been submitted for approval.
Visa Fee Exemption for International Tourists
The Cabinet paper, which is awaiting official approval, outlines the plan to exempt tourists from China, Russia, India, Thailand, and Indonesia from visa fees. Although these travellers will still be required to obtain visas for security purposes, no charges will apply.
Minister Harin Fernando elaborated on the rationale behind this decision, stating that its primary objective is to entice more tourists from these nations.
Sri Lanka aims to attract a staggering five million tourists annually in the years to come. This initiative aligns with the nation’s ambition to further establish itself as a premier tourist destination.
A Strategic Move to Attract Global Tourists
Furthermore, Sri Lanka’s prominence as one of the 20 nations recommended by China for its citizens to visit adds an extra layer of significance to this policy. By eliminating visa fees for citizens from these five key nations, Sri Lanka aims to foster stronger tourism ties and cultivate goodwill on the global stage.
As of now, Sri Lanka offers a variety of visa options for international tourists, including:
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Citizens of 48 countries can obtain a VOA upon arrival at Colombo International Airport (CMB). The VOA is valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Citizens of most countries can apply for an ETA online at the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration website. The ETA is valid for 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.
Tourist Visa: Citizens of certain countries, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, require a tourist visa to enter Sri Lanka. Tourist visas can be obtained at Sri Lankan embassies and consulates around the world.
Visa Fees
The visa fee for a tourist visa is US$20. The visa fee for an ETA is US$35. There is no visa fee for citizens of the five nations who will be eligible for free visas under the new policy.
Travellers from India, China, Thailand, Russia, and Indonesia, on the other hand, would benefit from the recently announced visa-fee exemption and will not have to pay anything to enter the nation.
Source : Travelobiz
