Online visa brings record income

Rasika SOMARATNA

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system which came into effect from January 1, 2012 to grant visa via online for foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka, has produced a record income of over Rs 170 million during the first 45 days. Immigration and Emigration controller Chulananda Perera said that ETA has become very popular with foreigners wishing to visit the country.

“We have received very positive responses from a large number of foreigners about the system. The quick approval process, technology, ease of use and the long list of convenient features have earned the praise of visitors,” Perera said. The new system introduced on January 1 replaced the old system of granting visa on arrival at the port of entry to nationals from 78 countries for short visits. On the basis of reciprocity, citizens of Singapore and Maldives are exempt from the requirement of obtaining ETA to visit Sri Lanka.