Increased Visa Charges Pose a Threat to Sri Lanka’s Tourism Industry: TravelersToday报道

In Sri Lanka, tourism leaders are facing a major concern as the government has recently raised the cost of visas, making it more expensive for travelers to visit the country. This decision has sparked worries among tourism experts who fear that the higher fees could deter tourists from choosing Sri Lanka as their destination, opting instead for more affordable options like Thailand or Vietnam.

The standard tourist visa now costs $75 for individuals from countries outside the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), a 50% increase from previous prices. For those from SAARC countries, the visa fee has been raised to $35. Tourism officials have urged President Ranil Wickremesinghe to reconsider the new pricing, emphasizing the importance of keeping travel costs low to attract visitors.

The introduction of the new e-Visa system was intended to streamline the travel process to Sri Lanka, but the higher fees may pose a challenge for the country’s tourism industry in competing with other destinations. As the sector grapples with these challenges, the government’s response to the concerns raised by tourism leaders remains eagerly awaited.

In a bid to boost tourism, Sri Lanka has extended its visa-free entry policy for travelers from seven countries until May 31, 2024. This initiative, which has been successful in increasing tourist numbers, allows visitors from India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan to enter the country without a visa. Travelers must apply for an e-visa before their trip, but no fees are charged for this service.

The visa-free program is part of Sri Lanka’s efforts to make tourism more accessible and appealing to visitors. However, it is important to note that full visa exemption applies to Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles, allowing travelers from these countries to enter with just their passport for longer stays.