Monday, December 4, 2023
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is poised for a significant boost with the introduction of a dual entry visa on arrival for tourists from seven countries, including India, Russia, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, and Indonesia.
This move comes as part of Sri Lanka’s efforts to revitalize its tourism industry, which has faced challenges since 2019.
The dual entry visa initiative is a follow-up to the Sri Lankan government’s decision in October to offer free tourist visas to visitors from the aforementioned countries. The goal is to attract more tourists and stimulate the tourism sector. The dual entry visa allows visitors to enter the country twice during the visa’s validity period, which is now limited to 30 days.
This initiative is particularly significant for Indian tourists, who constitute the largest inbound group for Sri Lanka. In October 2023 alone, Indian tourists accounted for nearly 26 percent of total arrivals, surpassing 28,000 visitors. Russia and Britain followed closely, with 10,000 and just over 8,000 tourists, respectively.
It’s worth noting that India plays a crucial role in the tourism sectors of other countries in the region as well. Thai authorities recently granted Indian passport holders six months of visa-free entry, effective from November 10, 2023, until May 10, 2024. Additionally, starting December 1, 2023, Malaysia will offer a 30-day visa-free entry for Indian citizens.
Sri Lanka’s allure lies in its rich history spanning over 2,000 years, featuring numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites and historic monuments. The country’s golden beaches and water sports further contribute to its popularity among global tourists.
This visa initiative is expected to remain active until March 31, 2024, providing an extended window for tourists to explore Sri Lanka. By offering increased flexibility and accessibility, Sri Lanka aims to position itself as a top travel destination, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange through tourism. The move aligns with broader regional trends as countries seek to enhance their appeal to international visitors, recognizing the significant economic contributions of the tourism industry.
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