Online ETA from 2011 for visas

Rasika Somarathna

The Immigration and Emigration Department will introduce an online Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) in 2011 to grant visas and monitor visa regulations.

The ETA is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to Sri Lanka and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk.

Immigration and Emigration Controller Chulananda Perera said the ETA would make it easy for any tourist wanting to visit Sri Lanka, as the system would authorize an online visa prior to arrival.

The modalities of the scheme worked out by officials of the External Affairs Ministry, Defence Ministry and other stakeholders is expected to be handed over to President Mahinda Rajapaksa and authorities for their perusal.

"The electronic approval system would provide a one day service as well as a three day normal service. After verifying details, the applicants would be notified online. Payments too could be made online.

There are many similar programs worldwide with most prominent being the Australian model. In the Australian model, ETA is an electronically stored authority equivalent to a visa. There is no stamp or label placed in the passport. ETA information is accessible by airlines, travel agents and Australian border agencies. An ETA is linked to the passport number that is used in an ETA application and the holder must use the same passport to travel.

The scheme would be in addition to the on arrival tourist visa facility provided by Sri Lanka to visitors from 83 countries. Sri Lanka provides nationals from 83 countries Visa on arrival at the port of entry. The authorization is subject to the visitors not being included in the barred list of travellers. The on arrival visa facility offers eligible travellers a 30-day stay, which could be extended for either 60 or 90 days on the payment of a nominal fee. According to Sri Lankan Visa Regulations engaging in employment or business without prior approval while on tourist Visa, is banned and is considered a punishable offence.