Parliament Approval Delays Visa-On-Arrival Scheme for Tourists

Due to parliamentary approval requirements, the implementation of free on-arrival visas for tourists from 38 countries, including India, has been postponed to October. The tourism industry has raised concerns about long delays and demands a return to the previous visa system.

Due to parliamentary approval requirements, the implementation of free on-arrival visas for tourists from 38 countries, including India, has been postponed to October. Minister of Public Security, Tiran Alles, announced the delay on Monday, stating that a new gazette needed for the change requires parliamentary approval.

Last week, Presidential Advisor on Tourism, Harin Fernando, said the scheme was to be implemented immediately following Cabinet approval. However, the Parliament is not scheduled to convene until after the September 21 presidential election, leading to the delay.

The island's tourism industry has expressed frustration over the long wait times currently experienced by travelers. In April, a foreign company was contracted to issue on-arrival visas, but the system has resulted in extended delays at Colombo International Airport. The Supreme Court has since ordered the Immigration Department to run the visa service themselves, but a return to the old system will take time. Measures such as increasing the number of counters at the airport have been implemented to reduce delays.

(With inputs from agencies.)