Harin reiterates need for free visas to boost tourist arrivals

Tourism Minister Harin Fernando reiterated the need for Sri Lanka to relax the visa requirements for international visitors, so that the tourism sector can grow without any hindrance.
Fernando stressed that for Sri Lanka to be competitive and maintain its share in the regional tourism space, efforts must be taken to make entering the island nation easier. He noted that the competitor nations, including the Maldives, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore, are strong in their efforts to pull tourists, as they offer free visas to key source markets.

“We have seen a significant increase in the number of requests for six-month, multiple entry visas. There has been a similar increase in the number of requests for one, two and five-year visas. However, in order to be competitive as a tourist destination, we must relax the regulations for single-entry visas as well,” Fernando said addressing the media yesterday.

While the Cabinet has appointed a special committee to provide a report on the proposal to issue free visas to tourists from 67 countries, the report is expected to be submitted for approval before next week.
“Following this, the implementation of free visa issuance is anticipated, which could significantly boost the tourism industry growth,” he added.

To boost tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka Tourism has rolled out five global promotional campaigns, with specific programmes planned for China, Japan, India and Europe. 
Additionally, there is also a “must visit” initiative aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s appeal among tourists.
According to Fernando, the promotional campaigns paved the way for Sri Lanka to successfully enter the top 10 lists of global tourist destinations.  “A notable 33 percent of tourists revisit Sri Lanka, indicating a positive trend for the tourism industry,” he said.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to enhance maritime tourism, particularly focusing on transforming Trincomalee and Arugam Bay into hubs for maritime activities.
Plans are also in motion to launch domestic flight services aimed at further developing the tourism sector, shared Fernando.