• Calls on Govt. to reconsider its stance, reinstate single-entry visa at previous rate of $ 50
• Insists policymakers recognise the importance of affordability and accessibility in attracting tourists to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Travel Operators (SLAITO) President Nishad Wijetunga sounded a cautionary note yesterday, warning that exorbitant visa fees could potentially slash arrivals by 50%.  He called on the Government to reconsider its stance and reinstate the single-entry visa at the previous rate of $ 50.

The Government recently made a decision to substantially increase visa fees, citing a hike of over 100% in the standard tourist visa fee. This, coupled with the transition to a global processing company, has triggered concerns among industry stakeholders regarding its impact on tourism.

“Under the new system, the standard tourist visa fee has surged to $ 75 for non-SAARC countries, with additional charges such as a $ 18.5 service fee and a $ 7.27 convenience fee, resulting in a total individual visa fee of $ 100.77,” he told the media yesterday.

Charges for SAARC country tourists also increased from $ 20 to $ 35 now for the standard visa; exemptions are provided for Singapore, Maldives, Czech Republic and Seychelles. Even tourists from the seven countries including; India, Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, China and Japan which the Government has allowed visa free has to now pay $ 22 due to additional service fees.

“Sri Lanka needs to prioritise tourism by easing regulatory barriers rather than imposing further restrictions,” Wijetunga said, insisting the policymakers recognise the importance of affordability and accessibility in attracting tourists to the country.

On 29 April, in a letter addressed to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, SLAITO highlighted the critical need for the adjustment in visa fees to sustain the positive momentum in the tourism industry and support broader economic recovery efforts. “A recent study indicates that Sri Lanka now has the highest visa costs in Asia, creating a significant barrier for tourists compared to competing destinations like Thailand, Vietnam and many other destinations that offer free visas or charge much lower fees,” the letter read. 

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