August 12, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, recently buoyed by the suspension of the VFS Global-led visa system, is now facing significant turmoil, reports claim.
The transition back to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has proven ineffective, leaving tourists and travel agents struggling to secure necessary entry approvals.
The Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) has reported a drastic decline in tourist arrivals and an increase in cancellations, as the only remaining option is visa issuance upon arrival.
Efforts to issue visas through foreign missions were halted on 6 August due to technical issues, and the online visa application system remains non-operational, threatening the winter tourism season.
Without a swift resolution, Sri Lanka risks losing winter bookings to regional competitors with more accessible visa processes.
The Ministry of Public Security has indicated that restoring the previous system will take months due to ongoing immigration system overhauls.
The situation is further complicated by the recent resignation of Harin Fernando as Minister of Tourism, following a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the suspension of his party membership.
