- 60 additional countries recommended
- Selection based on potential to generate tourism
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has submitted a list of 60 countries whose citizens may be eligible for free visas to enter Sri Lanka, The Sunday Morning learns.
It is reliably learnt that the authority is awaiting Cabinet approval before announcing the names of these countries.
Speaking to The Sunday Morning, SLTDA Chairman Priantha Fernando explained: “We have recommended a total of 60 countries for consideration. However, the proposal must first undergo Cabinet review and approval before implementation.”
“Given the possibility of alteration during the Cabinet’s deliberations, we can only provide specific details once the process is finalised.”
Speaking about the country selection process, he said it was based on their potential to generate tourism for Sri Lanka. “Our selection process for these countries was based on their potential to generate tourism for Sri Lanka. We conducted extensive studies to understand travellers’ destinations, interests, and what Sri Lanka can offer to attract them. This research informed the compilation of the list of 60 countries.”
“We have exceeded our expectations. This year, we anticipate a remarkable year for tourism. Historically, our maximum recorded tourist arrivals were 2.3 million. We are confident that we will surpass this figure. While our target for this year remains at 2.3 million, we expect to exceed it,” Fernando expressed.
In addition to tourists from seven countries enjoying visa-free entry to Sri Lanka – namely India, Russia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, and Malaysia – the SLTDA is reportedly planning to extend free visas to an additional 60 countries. The proposal for this initiative is expected to be presented to the Cabinet of Ministers within the week.
Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, tourist visits to Sri Lanka plummeted by nearly 74%. However, there has been a notable, albeit incomplete, recovery with tourist arrivals reaching 1,487,303 in 2023.
Sri Lanka has introduced a new visa process and online application portal developed in collaboration with IVS Global and GBS Technology Services to streamline visa services for travellers.
The initiative, effective immediately, aims to enhance efficiency and convenience in visa processing. The new system introduces updated requirements, fees, and validity periods for visas, replacing the current Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) method with an e-visa system.