The Sri Lankan government has restored the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, providing much-needed relief to the country’s tourism sector(ETA visa application). This system allows all foreigners to obtain visas online before arriving in Sri Lanka, making travel more convenient and hassle-free. The restoration of the ETA system is seen as a significant step in reviving the tourism industry, which had been struggling with visa-related complications under the previous arrangement with VFS Global.
Visa Fees Reduced and Free Visas for Children Under 12
With the reinstatement of the ETA system, visa fees are set to decrease. Tourists visiting Sri Lanka can now get a 30-day visa for just $35, and nationals from South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries will enjoy a reduced fee of $20. In addition, children under the age of 12 can now receive visas free of charge, making it easier for families to travel to Sri Lanka.
These changes are expected to boost family tourism, as traveling with children becomes more affordable. The tourism industry has long advocated for these improvements, and the government’s response to their concerns marks a significant win for the sector.
Addressing Visa Issues with VFS Global
Public Security Minister Vijitha Herath acknowledged the difficulties many foreign travelers faced when dealing with VFS Global’s visa service. There were widespread complaints about delays and challenges in obtaining on-arrival visas. Minister Herath stated, “The visa issue has caused great distress, but we have now resolved the problem.” He further explained that the Ministry had intervened to restore the ETA system following a court ruling.
The reinstated system allows tourists to apply for visas online, which will be processed within 24 hours. This quick turnaround is expected to make Sri Lanka a more attractive destination for international travelers.
Forensic Audit to Investigate VFS Global
The government is also taking steps to investigate any irregularities that occurred under the VFS Global visa service. Minister Herath announced that a forensic audit is currently underway to identify any discrepancies or wrongdoing associated with the previous visa system. If any irregularities are found, legal action will be taken to hold those responsible accountable.
Department of Immigration Moves Swiftly to Restore ETA System
On Wednesday, the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DIE) formally requested that service providers restore the previous ETA system. This move follows a recent Supreme Court order that instructed authorities to return to the visa system that was in place before April 2024.
The DIE has reached out to several key service providers, including Informatics Ltd., Mobitel Ltd., Sampath Bank, and Nations Trust Bank, urging them to reinstate the visa processing infrastructure that existed before the changes. These providers are expected to collaborate and ensure that the ETA system is fully operational once again.
Restoring the Online Visa System
As part of the restoration efforts, Mobitel Ltd. has been asked to reactivate the front-end system for processing ETA applications and resume its contact center service. Similarly, Informatics Ltd. has been tasked with restoring the backend services necessary to process visa applications. Sampath Bank and Nations Trust Bank are responsible for re-establishing the online payment gateway system to facilitate visa payments.
The Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) has also been instructed to restore the official ETA website to its original domain, https://eta.gov.lk, ensuring that the system is as efficient as it was before the recent changes.
A Delayed but Welcome Move
Although the tourism industry has been eagerly awaiting these changes, the restoration of the ETA system has taken longer than expected. SLT-Mobitel, one of the key service providers involved in the visa process, had been waiting for the necessary approvals and actions from other stakeholders for several weeks.
In early August, SLT-Mobitel’s Chairman wrote to the DIE Controller General, emphasizing the urgency of restoring the ETA system. Despite the delays, the latest directive from the Additional Controller marks a crucial step in addressing the concerns raised by tourism industry stakeholders and petitioners.
Supreme Court Order and Industry Concerns
The decision to restore the ETA system comes in response to a Supreme Court ruling that suspended a controversial e-visa outsourcing arrangement. This arrangement, which had been in place since April 2024, led to confusion, increased fees, and concerns about transparency. Many stakeholders in the tourism industry had voiced their frustration with the new system, which they felt was inefficient and detrimental to Sri Lanka’s reputation as a tourist-friendly destination.
The restoration of the ETA system is expected to bring back the efficiency and ease that travelers had enjoyed previously. The online visa system, widely regarded as one of the best in the region, will once again make Sri Lanka an accessible and attractive destination for global tourists.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth
Tourism is a vital sector of Sri Lanka’s economy, and the return of the ETA system is expected to drive growth in this industry. By reducing visa fees, offering free visas for children, and simplifying the visa application process, the government is making it easier for tourists to choose Sri Lanka as their next travel destination.
With these positive changes, the tourism sector is likely to see an increase in visitors, which will, in turn, contribute to the country’s economic recovery. The government’s swift action in addressing visa issues and restoring the ETA system sends a strong message of commitment to the tourism industry and the country’s broader economic goals.
Conclusion
The restoration of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system is a significant step forward for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. The simplified visa process, reduced fees, and free visas for children under 12 will make Sri Lanka a more attractive destination for international travelers. The government’s efforts to investigate past irregularities and ensure transparency in the visa process will also help restore confidence in Sri Lanka as a tourist-friendly country. As the tourism industry looks to recover from recent challenges, the reinstated ETA system will play a crucial role in driving growth and supporting the country’s economic recovery.
