Discover how Sri Lanka’s e-Visa processing fee dropped to just $1.25 and how it impacts your travel plans. Learn more about the reinstated ETA system
The Sri Lankan government has made a significant change to its visa processing fees, slashing the cost down to just $1.25 for online e-Visa applications. This is a substantial reduction from the previous $25.77 that was charged under the VFS Global system, which included a $7.27 convenience fee and an $18.50 service fee. After being suspended for a few months, the government has reinstated its locally-run ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system, offering a much simpler and more affordable solution for travelers.
This move comes at a crucial time as the country seeks to attract more tourists and recover from its economic challenges. Let’s take a detailed look at how this change impacts travelers, the history behind it, and what the future holds for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.
The Shift from VFS Global to the ETA System
What was VFS Global’s Role?
VFS Global, an outsourced foreign consortium, had been handling Sri Lanka’s e-Visa processing since April under a contract awarded by the previous government. This system, however, was marred with controversy due to the high fees charged to travelers and allegations of irregularities in the contract-awarding process.
Higher Fees and Complaints from Travelers
The VFS system imposed a steep processing fee of $25.77, which included hidden charges that left many travelers frustrated. This increase in fees caused a significant backlash from tourism operators and tourists alike.
Legal Challenges and Suspension
The controversy reached new heights when several fundamental rights petitions were filed against the VFS contract, citing concerns over transparency, the lack of a public tender, and the financial burden on the tourism sector. This ultimately led to the Sri Lankan Supreme Court suspending the e-Visa system on August 2, prompting a temporary return to the old ETA system.
Reinstatement of the ETA System
A Simpler and Cheaper Solution
Following a period of uncertainty, Sri Lanka’s government has reinstated the locally managed ETA system, much to the relief of travelers. Under this system, tourists can now apply for a visa online at a much lower cost of $1.25.
Supreme Court’s Role in Returning to ETA
The reinstatement of the ETA system came as part of a broader effort to resolve the controversies surrounding the VFS contract. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court intervened, ordering a return to the previous visa application platform managed by the state-owned company SLTMobitel.
The Updated Visa Process for Travelers
Under the reinstated system, tourists can now apply for an ETA on the official government portal (eta.gov.lk). The cost for a tourist visa is $50 (excluding bank charges), and once approved, the visa is valid for 6 months, allowing for a 30-day stay in the country with two entries.
Visa-Free Access Initiatives: A Boost for Tourism
Six-Month Visa Waiver for 35 Countries
In a move aimed at further boosting tourism, the Sri Lankan government announced a 6-month visa waiver for tourists from 35 countries, including major tourism markets like India, Japan, the United States, and several European nations.
Potential for Permanent Visa-Free Access
The possibility of permanent visa-free access for nationals from these 35 countries has been raised, although official details are still pending. Should this policy come into effect, it would further enhance Sri Lanka’s attractiveness as a tourist destination.
How Visa-Free Travel Could Revive Tourism
The tourism sector is a crucial component of Sri Lanka’s economy, especially as the country continues its recovery from the 2022 financial crisis. Visa-free access would make travel simpler and more appealing for millions of tourists, reducing entry barriers and contributing to the goal of reaching 2.3 million international visitors by 2024.
Tourism and Economic Implications
Challenges in Visa Application Disrupt Tourism
Sri Lanka has faced a significant drop in tourist arrivals in recent months, with the number of visitors falling below expectations. From September 1 to 17 alone, 92,639 tourists arrived in the country, bringing the year-to-date total to over 1.45 million. However, this number is far from the target the government hopes to achieve.
How the Restored ETA System Can Boost Visitor Numbers
The restored ETA system is expected to simplify visa formalities and address the challenges tourists faced under the VFS system, which contributed to the slowdown in arrivals. Streamlined visa processing could encourage more travelers to visit Sri Lanka, providing a much-needed boost to its tourism sector.
Looking to the Future: Sri Lanka’s Visa Policy Reforms
Towards Permanent Visa-Free Access?
The Sri Lankan government has hinted at potential reforms that could permanently reduce or eliminate visa fees for select nationalities. Such a move could be a game-changer for tourism, making the island nation more accessible to travelers worldwide.
Simplifying the Arrival Process for Tourists
As part of the reformed visa system, travelers are now required to complete an online Arrival Card through the immigration portal (eservices.immigration.gov.lk) in the 7 days prior to their arrival. This is expected to further streamline entry procedures and improve the overall travel experience.
Government’s Efforts to Rebuild the Tourism Sector
Newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has prioritized tourism as a key element of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. With visa reforms, easier travel procedures, and marketing efforts, the government is optimistic about reaching its tourism goals.
Conclusion
The reduction of Sri Lanka’s e-Visa processing fee to just $1.25 and the reinstatement of the ETA system signal a positive shift for the country’s tourism industry. These changes make travel more affordable and accessible, encouraging international visitors to explore the island’s rich culture and natural beauty. As Sri Lanka continues to rebuild its economy, these visa reforms play a pivotal role in boosting tourism and attracting travelers from around the world.
FAQs
- What is the cost of the Sri Lanka e-Visa?
- The e-Visa processing fee is now just $1.25, a significant reduction from the previous $25.77 charged under the VFS system.
- How long is the ETA visa valid once approved?
- The ETA visa is valid for 6 months and allows for a 30-day stay with two possible entries.
- What were the reasons for the suspension of the previous e-Visa system?
- The e-Visa system was suspended due to legal challenges, including concerns over transparency and high fees imposed by the VFS system.
- How can tourists apply for an ETA to Sri Lanka?
- Tourists can apply for an ETA online through the official portal eta.gov.lk.
- Which countries are eligible for the new visa-free access?
- Sri Lanka has announced a temporary visa waiver for 35 countries, including India, Japan, and the United States.
- What are the main criticisms of the VFS system in Sri Lanka?
- The VFS system faced criticism for charging high fees and lacking transparency in the contract-awarding process. The service was also blamed for causing delays and complications in visa processing.
- How does the ETA system differ from the e-Visa system?
- The ETA system is managed locally by the Sri Lankan government, offering a more affordable and streamlined process compared to the outsourced VFS e-Visa system, which charged higher fees.
- What is the process for obtaining an online Arrival Card before travel?
- Visitors must complete an online Arrival Card on the eservices.immigration.gov.lk portal within 7 days prior to their travel to Sri Lanka.
- How has the visa issue affected tourism in Sri Lanka?
- The confusion and high costs of the VFS e-Visa system led to a drop in tourist arrivals, with many travelers facing delays and frustrations. The recent reforms aim to simplify the process and attract more visitors.
- What are the current entry requirements for tourists visiting Sri Lanka?
- Tourists can apply for an ETA online, and upon approval, it is valid for 6 months. Travelers must also complete the online Arrival Card before entering the country.