Sri Lanka Suspends e-Visa System: Key Updates for Travellers

On August 2, 2024, the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka temporarily halted the e-Visa system managed by VFS Global and other foreign firms. The decision was taken due to concerns over procedural issues, corruption and breach of public trust. The suspension aims to restore transparency in the visa application process.

2. Refunds for affected applicants:

- Applicants who submitted visa applications after 5:00 pm Sri Lanka Standard Time on August 2, 2024 are eligible for a refund. They must send their application reference number to travel.partner@srilankaevisa.lk for processing.

3. Restoration of ETA System:

- The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, previously managed by Sri Lankan telecommunications company Mobitel, is expected to be restored. The Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) indicated that the ETA system could resume within the next week.

4. Visa on arrival option:

- Travellers can still obtain visa on arrival in Sri Lanka. However, citizens of certain countries (Afghanistan, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, North Korea, Ghana, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan and Syria) are excluded from this option and must apply through the Immigration Department with a representative.

5. Ongoing discussions:

- Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security Vianney Gunathilaka confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the Department of Immigration and Emigration to resolve the situation immediately.