Sri Lanka Restores ETA System, Boosting Tourist Arrivals
By: Staff Writer
September 30, Colombo (LNW): The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) and Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) praised the government’s decision to reinstate the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, simplifying the process for tourists visiting the country.
This platform, operational since 2012, had been recognized as one of the most efficient in the region, contributing significantly to the growth of tourism. However, it was unexpectedly replaced by a new system in April 2024 after the previous government outsourced visa processing.
THASL and SLAITO revealed in a joint statement that this abrupt change negatively impacted tourist arrivals. After their appeals for a reversal were ignored for more than two months, key industry stakeholders filed Fundamental Rights petitions in Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court in July 2024.
They expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court for its directive on 2 August 2024 to restore the previous ETA system. However, there was a delay in executing the court’s order, causing confusion and significant revenue loss due to the decline in tourist arrivals. The absence of a streamlined online visa system contributed to this downturn.
Both associations expressed delight at the reinstatement of the old ETA system by the Department of Immigration and Emigration, anticipating a positive outcome with an expected surge in tourist numbers in the near future. They also acknowledged the efforts of the Committee on Public Finance (COPF) in May/June, as well as the Supreme Court’s interim order, which was issued two months prior.
Additionally, THASL and SLAITO extended their thanks to Sri Lanka’s President and the Minister for Public Security for ensuring the Supreme Court order was promptly enforced after they took office. They emphasized the critical role tourism plays as the leading net foreign exchange earner for Sri Lanka, with over 10% of the population relying on the industry for their livelihood.
