Sri Lanka’s new government has abolished the visa system introduced by the previous administration and reinstated the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) visa system, according to the Maldivian High Commission in Colombo. The change was implemented by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Adjustment in Visa Duration for Maldivians
Maldives High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Masood Imaad, confirmed that the decision does not affect the free on-arrival visas granted to Maldivian citizens. However, there is a notable change in the initial duration of stay permitted under the ETA system.
• Initial Stay Reduced: Maldivian travellers will now receive a 30-day visa on arrival instead of the previous 90 days.
• Extension Available: Visitors can request an extension of their visa for an additional 60 days at no extra cost, allowing for a total stay of up to 90 days.
“The on-arrival period is now set to 30 days due to system programming,” High Commissioner Masood Imaad explained. “However, we are engaging in discussions with the Sri Lankan government to reinstate the 90-day free visa on arrival for Maldivians. Previously, under the bilateral agreement, visitors received 30 days on arrival and could extend it by another 60 days.”
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
The High Commissioner emphasised that talks would resume after the holidays to address the visa duration issue. “We are working to make the on-arrival period 90 days once again,” he said. “Our aim is to facilitate ease of travel for Maldivians visiting Sri Lanka, maintaining the strong ties between our nations.”
Background on Visa System Changes
Since 17 April last year, Sri Lanka’s visa services were managed by VFS Global, an international company. The outsourcing led to a doubling of visa fees due to added processing and staffing costs, raising concerns within Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.
Despite the introduction of the VFS system, the Maldivian government had negotiated for Maldivians to receive a 90-day visa on arrival without any fees.
In August, Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court issued an interim order suspending the visa system managed by VFS Global. This action followed a lawsuit filed by three opposition members of the Sri Lankan parliament, alleging significant irregularities in awarding the project to VFS Global, operated by a consortium of Indian companies.
Implications for Maldivian Travellers
• Visa Fees: There are no charges for the visa on arrival or for extending the visa for Maldivian citizens.
• Extension Process: Travellers wishing to stay beyond the initial 30 days can apply for an extension of up to 60 additional days, free of charge.
• Travel Planning: Maldivian visitors are advised to factor in the new initial visa duration when planning their trips and to be prepared to apply for an extension if necessary.
• Future Developments: Ongoing discussions between Maldivian and Sri Lankan authorities may lead to the reinstatement of the 90-day visa on arrival.
Advice for Travellers
Travellers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest visa regulations. The Maldivian High Commission in Sri Lanka remains a resource for updates and assistance regarding visa matters.
High Commissioner Masood Imaad reassured Maldivian citizens: “We are optimistic that through continued dialogue, we can restore the previous visa arrangements, ensuring ease of travel for our nationals.”
The reinstatement of the ETA visa system represents a shift back to Sri Lanka’s earlier visa processes. While there is a reduction in the initial visa duration for Maldivian travellers, the ability to extend the stay without incurring fees helps mitigate the impact.
The Maldivian government continues to advocate for its citizens, aiming to maintain the traditionally strong and accommodating travel arrangements with Sri Lanka. Travellers should monitor updates from official channels to stay informed of any changes resulting from ongoing diplomatic efforts.
