The Government announced last night the reinstatement of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, allowing all foreign nationals to once again obtain hassle-free pre-arrival visas, with effective from midnight yesterday (26)
Along with the reintroduction of the ETA, visa fees will be reduced. The 30-day tourist visa fee will now be $35, while visitors from SAARC countries will see a reduction to $20. Additionally, visas for children under 12 years will be free, further encouraging family travel, the Daily FT reported.
According to the statement of the President’s Media Division (PMD), Public Security Minister Vijitha Herath acknowledged the challenges faced by tourists due to the visa service previously provided by VFS Global. He highlighted that the Ministry acted following a Court ruling to resume visa issuance through the ETA system within 24 hours, resolving the difficulties caused by the previous system.
Minister Herath also revealed that a forensic audit has been launched to investigate irregularities involving VFS Global, with legal action to follow if discrepancies are found.
