Sri Lanka has temporarily suspended its electronic visa application site operated by a consortium of VFS Global, IVS, and GBS following a Supreme Court order. The suspension, effective from August 2 at 5:00 PM Sri Lanka Standard Time, comes after allegations that the contract was awarded without a competitive tender.
Supreme Court’s Interim Order
The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka issued an interim order halting the operation of the e-Visa platform managed by VFS Global and its partners. A statement on the website’s front page acknowledged the court’s directive, leading to the immediate suspension of the site.
“In view of these orders, the website is suspended effective 2 August at 17:00 hours Sri Lanka Standard Time,” the statement read.
Temporary Visa-On-Arrival System
Despite the suspension of the e-Visa platform, the Department of Immigration continues to issue on-arrival visas to tourists from eligible countries. This measure ensures that travel to Sri Lanka remains accessible during the transition period.
Return to Mobitel’s System
The Supreme Court’s order also mandated a return to the status quo that existed before April 18, when the site was operated by Mobitel, a domestic company. However, there is no immediate information on when Mobitel’s site will be restored. Sources from the Department of Immigration indicated that a decision is likely to be made next week.
Previously, Mobitel charged a nominal fee of one dollar for the e-Visa service. In contrast, VFS Global’s charges ranged from 10 to 18.5 dollars and varied depending on the visa category.
Understanding Sri Lanka’s Visa Options
Visa-On-Arrival
Sri Lanka provides a visa-on-arrival option for citizens of certain countries. This visa can be obtained upon arrival at Sri Lankan airports and is designed to facilitate last-minute travel plans. To obtain a visa-on-arrival, travellers must complete a form and pay the necessary fees at the airport. This option is particularly convenient for tourists who have not applied for a visa in advance.
Tourist Visa
Tourists can apply for a short-term visa to visit Sri Lanka for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and relatives. This visa can be obtained either before arrival or on arrival, depending on the traveller’s nationality. The visa typically allows a stay of up to 30 days, which can be extended if needed.
Business Visa
For those travelling to Sri Lanka for business purposes, a business visa is available. This visa allows for activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or business discussions. Like the tourist visa, it can be obtained before arrival or on arrival, depending on the traveller’s nationality.
Transit Visa
Travellers passing through Sri Lanka en route to another destination can apply for a transit visa. This visa allows for a short stay in the country, generally up to 48 hours, providing a convenient option for travellers with layovers in Sri Lanka.
Impact on Travellers
The suspension of the current e-Visa platform may cause temporary inconvenience for travellers. However, the continued availability of the visa-on-arrival option ensures that tourists can still enter Sri Lanka without significant disruption.
Travellers are advised to stay updated on any changes to the visa application process by checking official Sri Lankan government websites and announcements.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka remains a popular destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. The country’s commitment to facilitating easy entry for international visitors underscores its dedication to promoting tourism despite administrative challenges.
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