‘Online visa system very popular’

The online visa system introduced by the Government has become very popular among tourists visiting Sri Lanka since it is time saving and avoids the hassle of visiting Sri Lankan embassies overseas to obtain visas.

The system introduced in January has brought in a record revenue of Rs 2 billion as of December 13.

The estimated revenue from tourism by the end of this year would be one billion US dollars.

This was stated by Deputy Minister of Economic Development Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena at a media conference at his Ministry last Thursday.

The Deputy Minister said the Government is ambitious of doubling the revenue through the online Visa Approval System by the end of next year as a result of increased online visa fees and surging tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka.

He said the Electronic Travel Authorization system which was introduced has become popular among many foreign nationals who arrive as tourists to Sri Lanka.He said tourism authorities are optimistic that the industry will continue to record a steady growth in the coming months.Managing Director of Sri Lanka Tourism, Rumi Jaufer said Sri Lanka is no longer a cheap destination and the spending power of tourists visiting Sri Lanka including Indians has increased.

-News.lk