Sri Lanka Online Visa ETA System Earns Rs 170mn During First 45 Days

16th February 2012, www.dailynews.lk, By Rasika Somaratna

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system which came into effect from January 1, 2012 to grant visa via online for foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka, has produced a record income of over Rs 170 million during the first 45 days. Immigration and Emigration controller Chulananda Perera said that ETA has become very popular with foreigners wishing to visit the country.

“We have received very positive responses from a large number of foreigners about the system. The quick approval process, technology, ease of use and the long list of convenient features have earned the praise of visitors,” Perera said. The new system introduced on January 1 replaced the old system of granting visa on arrival at the port of entry to nationals from 78 countries for short visits. On the basis of reciprocity, citizens of Singapore and Maldives are exempt from the requirement of obtaining ETA to visit Sri Lanka.

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• No Visa Fee for Transit Passengers for 2 Days and Children under 12 Years

No Visa Fee for Transit Passengers for 2 Days and Children under 12 Years

12th January 2012, lankapuvath.lk

The cabinet has decided to exempt transit passengers for two days on visa fees and to exempt tourists under 12 years from visa fee, cabinet spokesman and Media Minister, Keheliya Rambukwella said.

The minister said it was approved on a recommendation by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Sri Lanka Online Visa : Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Official Website of the Department of Immigration & Emigration (DI&E) of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

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• Sri Lanka Ends On Arrival Visas and Implements Online Electronic Travel Authorisation System

Lanka Gate Internet Payment Gateway Serves Online Visa. Payments for All Government Services to be Made via IPG

12th January 2012, www.dailynews.lk, By Indunil Hewage

Sri Lanka’s first government sector IT payment gate, Lanka Gate Internet Payment Gateway (IPG) which is created by the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) has become a major attraction among foreign nationals who intend to obtain Sri Lanka visas online.

ICTA Communications Head Athula Pushpakumara said, “From the beginning of this year it has been made obligatory for all tourists to Sri Lanka to obtain their visas online.

“We see that IPG users are increasing every day. Over 3,000 foreign nationals are making online visa payments via IPG per day. Over 24,000 tourists have so far made online visa payments through the IPG within the first eight days alone since it became operational from January 1,” he said.

In addition, in the future, payments for all government services would be made via the Lanka Gate Internet Payment Gateway. A Sri Lankan will be entitled to obtain online government citizen services through this which is to be introduced in April by ICTA. Customers will have the opportunity to get the services pertaining to their passports, identity cards and other requirements by paying through the above system and it facilitates payments through credit and debit cards as well.

It was also said that Sri Lanka earned an income of Rs 70 million by issuing of visa within 10 days.

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• Sri Lanka Ends On Arrival Visas and Implements Online Electronic Travel Authorisation System

Sri Lanka Ends On Arrival Visas and Implements Online Electronic Travel Authorisation System

03rd January 2012, www.adaderana.lk

Sri Lanka today scrapped the visa on arrival facility for citizens of all but two countries, replacing it with an online application system whereby visitors will have to apply before arriving here.


The new electronic travel authorisation system (ETA) is now applicable to 78 nations, including India.

Only passport holders from Singapore and Maldives are exempted from it and will be eligible for on arrival visas.

Following representations from India, the visa fee payable by Indian and SAARC region tourists under ETA was reduced to USD 10 from the originally-planned USD 50.


Non-SAARC nation visitors would, however, be charged USD 20 as visa fee.


The government said that on arrival visa system where bona fide tourists were given 30-day visas had to be scrapped due to increasing number of abuses, PTI reports.


IMPORTANT NOTICE - Department of Immigration and Emigration

With effect from 1st January 2012, all Holiday or Business travelers to Sri Lanka must have Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for entering in to Sri Lanka. Please visit http://www.eta.gov.lk for more information.

The ETA system will be effective from 31st December midnight 2011

" The ETA system will be effective from 31st December midnight 2011 and all those who obtain visa thereafter will be expected to use the ETA system paying the relevant processing fee.

However ,for those who obtained visa using ETA prior to 01st January 2012 there will be no processing fee as long as they arrive within the visa validity period.

For those who arrive without obtaining visa through ETA after 31st December 2011 there will be a facility to obtain "on arrival visa" by paying the relevant ETA processing fee."

More Info - Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration

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Sri Lanka to Continue Visa on Arrival Following Concerns about Impact on Tourism. Online Visas also to Function

26th June 2011, sundaytimes.lk, By Sunimalee Dias

The Government will continue with the Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) scheme from September for a short period while at the same time implementing the new online-visa for visitors, following concern from the trade that the move could reduce tourist numbers.

Deputy Economic Development Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena told the Business Times that both the current (VOA) and proposed online system will operate until the new system is fully operational and depending on the feedback from visitors.

The online visa scheme operative from September, ironically when the lucrative winter season starts, could turn into a crisis with industry sources saying this would affect arrivals . However some sources say the twin schemes, even though temporary, could also cause a lot of confusion.

The online visa system is likely to have a “substantial impact” on the tourism industry with figures set to drop as it is coming at a time just prior to winter arrivals, Tourist Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) President Anura Lokuhetty told the Business Times, days before Mr Abeywardene explained that both systems would work.

Mr Lokuhetty urged that this scheme be delayed at least until May next year when the industry comes around (improves). “Winter will get definitely affected,” he said adding that most arrivals from India will be impacted.

Currently, India is the number one market for the tourism industry in Sri Lanka overtaking UK and Germany with the highest number of arrivals for last month growing by 55%. While Sri Lanka continues to place restrictions with marginal or no promotions the country is set to lose in the backdrop of competing nations like Malaysia at 15 million visitors, Thailand with 14 million and Singapore projecting 12.5 million arrivals this year. These countries have “massive tourist arrivals but still there are no visa restrictions,” Mr. Lokuhetty noted.

Indian tourists are likely to be hit the worst as Jetwing Hotels Chairman Hiran Cooray pointed out they will not be able to come down to Colombo on the spur-of-the moment anymore. While the government notes that such a system is required for security concerns however, the industry believes this could adversely affect the budding sector trying to make a comeback and grab a slice in the highly competitive market.

The industry noted that any discussions with the government after decisions have been taken will be beyond them right now. “We have no say on the matter,” Sri Lanka Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) President Nilmin Nanayakkara said adding that this new regulation was to be implemented in August last year however; due to objections by the industry it was postponed.

He however noted that should the online visa system be “user friendly” as explained to them the impact on arrivals could be minimal. The new system could reduce arrivals from the 800, 000 target for this year although an increase is envisaged over 2010.

A similar move was averted by the tourism industry back in 2007 with the imposition of an additional 10% on visa fees, which was later postponed.
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Sri Lanka Offers Special Visas to Investors, Professionals & Senior Citizens - My Dream Home & Resident Guest Visas

A Sri Lankan Visa is an endorsement to facilitate the legal entry of non Sri Lankans into Sri Lanka and to regulate the period and conditions of their stay. (Read more: General Information)

Four Types of Sri Lankan Visas

1> VISIT VISA - An entry permit signifying the consent of the Sri Lankan Government for the admission of a foreign national to the country. The Visa contains details of the period and conditions of the stay. Visit Visas have two sub-categories.

• Tourist Visit Visa - Issued to bona-fide tourists who want to enter Sri Lanka for sightseeing, excursions, relaxation, visit relatives, etc for a short period of time.

• Business Visit Visa - Issued to foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka for business purposes for short periods of time. This visa may be issued for single, double or multiple journeys.(Read more: Tourist / Business Visit Visas)

2> RESIDENCE VISA - A permit for a non-Sri Lankan to obtain residence facilities in Sri Lanka for special purposes. There are eight sub-categories under Residence Visas.

1. Employment Category
2. Investor Category
3. Religious Category
4. Student Category
5. Registered Indians covered by the 1954 Indo-Lanka Agreement.
6. Ex-Sri Lankans and their dependants
7. Family Members of a Sri Lankan
8. Diplomatic and Official Visa
   

(Read more: Residence Visa)


3> MY DREAM HOME VISA PROGRAMME - Sri Lanka welcomes senior foreign nationals who wish to come for a prolonged stay in Sri Lanka.

• Any foreign national over 55 years of age is eligible.
• Visa valid for 02 years with Multiple-Entry and renewable.
• Luxury accommodation and male/female domestic help that are quite economical.
• Low Cost of living and escape from severe weather conditions.
• Excellent yet affordable medical facilities.
• Opportunity to invest in Sri Lanka.
• US$ 15,000 to be deposited in a fixed deposit account in an approved Commercial Bank in Sri Lanka, and a monthly remittance of US$ 1,500 for the principal applicant and US$ 750 for each spouse and dependent child for their upkeep.
  

(Read more: Sri Lanka Welcomes Senior Foreign Nationals - Sri Lanka, My Dream Home Visa Programme)


4> RESIDENT GUEST SCHEME VISA PROGRAMME - The RGS offers incentives for prospective foreign investors and professionals. Any foreign investor or professional who could contribute to the economic and socio-cultural enrichment of Sri Lanka can apply.

• Investor Category - Should remit a minimum of US $ 250,000 and deposit the funds in a special account in any approved commercial bank in Sri Lanka. A further sum of US$ 35,000 should be deposited for each dependent accompanying the investor. Interest on any unutilized balance held in deposit will be paid.

• Professional Category - Should remit to a Special Bank Account in Sri Lanka a minimum of US$ 2,000/- per month for his living expenses and US$ 1,000/- per month for each of his dependents, including spouse.

(Read more: Resident Guest Scheme Visa Programme for Investors / Professionals)


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Sri Lanka's Proposed Visa Rules Opposed by Tourism Industry

02nd January 2011, www.lankabusinessonline.com

Sri Lanka's tourist industry wants the government to postpone a new rule to charge for visas, scrapping on-arrival visas, saying it could deter visitors whose numbers boomed after the end of a war, a report said.

'New visa rules cause panic in hotel-tourism sector', was how the Sunday Times newspaper headline the story, saying visitors from 78 countries will be slapped with a visa fee with an online payment method to be introduced.

Sri Lanka hoteliers had expressed serious concern over government moves to charge for visas from foreigners visiting the country, except those from Singapore and the Maldives, which give Sri Lankans on-arrival visas, the paper said.

One of the reasons why we attract a large number of visitors to Sri Lanka is because of the easy access to the country," it quoted Anura Lokuhetti, president of the Tourist Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL), as saying.

"That is why we urge the government to defer this move until 2012.”

He said it was encouraging to note that the government was taking a keen interest in promoting the tourism sector, but this was not the time for such a move.

Tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka rose sharply last year, topping 600,000, after the island's 30-year ethnic war ended in May 2009.

A top hotelier, who is involved in promoting Sri Lanka tourism abroad, described the new visa move as “frightening” for the hospitality industry, the Sunday Times newspaper said.

The reactions came after the government on Friday decided to charge a visa fee on visitors from 78 countries, including tourists from Britain, France, Germany, India and the US and cancel the on-arrival visas facility.

The new measures are part of a new on-line visa scheme that will come into effect shortly, the newspaper quoted Immigration and Emigration Controller Chunananda Perera as saying. A standard fee would be announced soon.

Under the new system, visitors could collect an entry visa to Sri Lanka for a fee via the internet from the Sri Lanka Immigration Web site, which Perera said would reduce time, travel and paper work while also bringing in additional revenue to the country.

Approval for a visa would not take more than a single day.

Sri Lanka to Issue Multiple Entry Visas to Investors

26th November 2010, www.news.lk

Sri Lanka Government considers issuing of Multiple Visa for investors and businessmen as the govt. gives top priority for investment. The Budget 2011 proposed last week has introduced several concessions to promote foreign Direct Investment.

The Central bank of Sri Lanka has already relaxed exchange control regulations in this regard. The Controller of Exchange has relaxed exchange control rules allowing foreigners to invest in rupee denominated debentures issued by local companies. The new rule also permits the local firms borrowing from foreign sources and the procedures and documents required in order to complete the process have been prepared by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

Permission is also granted for foreign companies to open businesses in Sri Lanka and foreigners on tour or businesses in Sri Lanka can open accounts in foreign currency.

According to Immigration rules every foreigner who visits Sri Lanka for the purpose of business or investment on several occasions within the overall period of visa can apply for a Multiple Entry visa valid for three months at a Sri Lankan Mission abroad by submitting required documents personally.

The Multiple Visa will be issued as an alternative to the tourist visa being issued for all immigrants.

The Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa has said investors visiting this country frequently for either business or investments use tourist visas for a long period. They had to give false information to visit the island.

“President Mahinda Rajapaksa is very keen to help investors and settle their problems regarding investments. The Budget also aims to increase foreign investments in the country. The President proposed several positive suggestions that will be favorable for all investors,” he said. “We will implement all positive proposals spelt out in the Budget soon,” the Minster said.

Industries and Trade Minister Rishad Badiudeen, Ministry Secretary Thilak Collure, Sri Lanka Export Development Board Chairman Janaka Rathnayake and Tourist Board Chairman Dr Nalaka Godahewa also attended the event.

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Sri Lanka Continues to Grant Visa on Arrival to Tourists

28th August 2010, www.emirates247.com

Sri Lanka on Saturday suspended plans to scrap on-arrival visas for most nationals, including visitors from UAE.

The government had announced it was withdrawing the landing endorsements from September 30 in a move widely seen as potentially damaging to the island's tourism industry, which is recovering from 37 years of ethnic conflict.

"Notice is hereby given that the earlier public notice on 'Withdrawal of on-arrival visa facility' be treated as withdrawn until further notice," immigration controller W.A.C. Perera said in a statement posted on his website.

There was no further comment from the government.

Earlier a statement said tourists from the UAE, as well as 79 other countries will not get visas on arrival in Sri Lanka from September 30 onwards.

On Friday, the island’s Department of Immigration and Emigration announced that it was withdrawing the visa-on-arrival facility for tourists for several countries, including India, UK, USA, China, Japan and a host of European nations.

It is from the Middle East and West Asian countries that Sri Lanka gets its chunk of tourists.

"Only citizens from Singapore and Maldives will continue to get their visas on arrival as our citizens are extended the same facility by them," RMS Sarath Kumara, deputy immigration controller, was quoted as saying.

More Info:
Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration : Visa on Arrival

Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration : Schedule 'A' - Countries Eligible for 30 Day Visa on Arrival at the Port of Entry in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Welcomes Senior Foreign Nationals - Sri Lanka, My Dream Home Visa Programme

www.immigration.gov.lk

The Department of Immigration & Emigration, Sri Lanka welcomes senior foreign nationals who wish to a prolonged stay in Sri Lanka on Residence Visa under the “Sri Lanka-MY DREAM HOME PROGRAMME”.

All applicants who fulfill following entry requirements and wish to enter into “Sri Lanka-MY DREAM HOME PROGRAMME” are invited to submit their applications.

• Any foreign national over 55 years of age is eligible.
• Visa valid for 02 years with Multiple-Entry and renewable.
• Luxury accommodation and male/female domestic help that are quite economical.
• Low Cost of living and escape from severe weather conditions.
• Excellent yet affordable medical facilities.
• Opportunity to invest in Sri Lanka.

Entry requirements:
1. Applicant should remit US$15,000 or the equivalent in an approved foreign currency and deposit them in a fixed deposit account in an approved Commercial Bank in Sri Lanka.

2. a monthly remittance of US$ 1500 or the equivalent in an approved foreign currency for the principal applicant and US$ 750 or the equivalent in an approved foreign currency for each spouse and dependent child for their upkeep (if accompanied by spouse/children) in a savings or current account in an approved Commercial Bank in Sri Lanka.

Required documents:
• Residence Visa Form with 02-passport size photographs. Application is available in the Visa Division of the department of Immigration & Emigration or the Department’s Website www.immigration.gov.lk
• A certified copy of Passport/ Travel document (All pages)
• A certified copy of latest Bank Statement / other related financial documents to indicate the financial capability to support stay in Sri Lanka
• Source of income (Pension / Superannuation) for monthly Remittance for US$1500 for principal applicant and US$750 for each dependent
• Police clearance certificate not later than 06 months from country of domicile
• Marriage certificate of claim Residence Visa for spouse

Terms and Conditions:
• This scheme is open to all foreign nationals who are over 55 years of age. Applicant is allowed to bring his/her spouse and under 18 years unmarried dependent children
• To qualify for the scheme, applicants required to remit US$ 15,000.00 and deposit them in a fixed deposit account in an approved Commercial Bank in Sri Lanka
• In addition to the above, US$1500 for the applicant and US$750 for each spouse and dependent children for their upkeep
• Applicants under this scheme may withdraw their entire fixed deposit anytime should they decide to terminate their stay in Sri Lanka. However, they must obtain prior approval from the Controller of Exchange in Sri Lanka through the Controller General of Immigration & Emigration
• Interest gain from the fixed deposit can be withdrawn and utilized for the applicant’s upkeep
• Should possess a valid medical insuanrence policy, which is applicable in Sri Lanka
• Should submit a police clearance certificate from country of domicile. A police clearance certificate from Sri Lanka at the time of renewal of the residence visa
• Not involve in any type of criminal activities
• Should not involve in any type of political activities in Sri Lanka and not participate in any activities that can be considered as sensitive to the local people and a threat to the security of the country
• No paid or unpaid employment while staying in Sri Lanka
• Applicants are bound by the rules and regulations of taxes of Sri Lanka and they are liable to pay relevant taxes
• Every applicant is expected to submit with half-year bank statement related to the fixed deposit and savings account to the Controller (Visa) of the Department of Immigration & Emigration
• Should inform the Controller (Visa) of the Department of Immigration & Emigration any changes in visa status, personal information is changed

Processing of applications:
The applications are accepted and processed only at the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo.

1. Applicant will be notified the position of his/her application in writing within two weeks of the submission of application
2. Successful applicant will be issued a "Provisional Approval Letter" to open up a fixed deposit foreign Currency account and a savings account for US$ 1500 for living expenses and instruction letter to the Operational Manager of the Bank
3. Applicant should submit with the Bank Statement for fixed Deposit of US$15,000 and US$1500 for monthly remittance to the Competent Authority. Also US$ 750 for each dependent if applicable
4. Residence visa valid for two years, which is renewable, will be granted to the applicant and dependents
5. Fees for the Visa
• Application processing fee of US$ 150 for each applicant and dependent.
• Residence visa fee and tax -SLRS 20,000.00 per year for each applicant, spouse and over 16 years age of dependent children

Procedure for extension of Residence Visa:
Should apply with following documents.
• Residence Visa form “A”
• Copy of the passport/new passport
• Renewal notice of fixed deposit certificate and bank statement of savings account.
• Renewal notice of medical insurance policy
• Police clearance certificate obtain from Sri Lanka

Benefits of the Programme:
• Residence visa valid for 02 years which is renewable, will be granted
• Feeling welcome and safe while living in Sri Lanka among who are kind to foreigners
• Enjoying Sri Lanka’s range of climates, seasons and temperatures etc
• Endless outdoor health-giving opportunities for golf, tennis, physical training in gyms, marathon running, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, sea or fresh water fishing, bird-watching and observing nature in world class game reserves
• Luxurious furnished houses or flats are available on the coast or in the highlands or the cities at moderate rents
• Obliging domestic help male or female is available at affordable fair wages

For applications and instructions, please contact:
Controller (Visa)
Visa Division, Department of Immigration & Emigration
No.41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha
Colombo 10.
Contact Tel -011-5329300

Website : My Dream Home Visa Programme

Applications : Download printable versions of the Application Forms here

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