Issuing of visa now available under previous system

The government has taken action to resume the issuing of visas under the previous system, beginning from 12.00 midnight today (26).

Minister of Public Security, Vijitha Herath said all foreigners will now be able to apply for visas under the previous system.

"The visa facility provided by VFS Global has caused significant difficulties for many. Specially, foreigners arriving in Sri Lanka experienced considerable challenges in obtaining their visas. In response, and following a court decision, the Ministry of Public Security has intervened to resume the issuing of visas under the previous system within the past 24 hours,” Minister Vijitha Herath said.

“From 12.00 midnight today, foreigners can easily apply for visas online, which will be processed within 24 hours. This marks a significant improvement. Furthermore, we have initiated an immediate forensic audit to investigate the irregularities associated with the VFS Global. Any discrepancies found will be subject to legal action in the future. As a result, those in business and investment sectors will now have access to the same visa facilities,” he added.