ECONOMYNEXT – The inability to get business visas amidst an ongoing turmoil in Sri Lanka’s online visa issuance is hurting the economic recovery as visiting buyers, suppliers and technical exports do not have a clear way to get visas, an export body has said.
Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration has failed to re-activate an online visa system following a court order on a controversial deal with IVS-VFS Global, but tourists are now being given on arrival visas.
Sri Lanka’s Joint Apparel Association Forum said foreign embassies should be authorized to issue business visas.
“Sri Lankan enterprises are at a critical juncture in their ongoing recovery efforts,” JAAF Secretary General Yohan Lawrence said.
“At such a moment, it is incumbent on the Government to take all possible measures to streamline the flow of not just goods, but also personnel.
“Business travelers often have specific requirements, including the need to carry samples, documents, and other material while traveling.
“For the benefit of Sri Lanka’s business and export community, swift action is needed to implement a solution that facilitates international business travel and restores confidence in Sri Lanka as a business-friendly destination.”
JAAF said buyers, machinery suppliers, and technical service providers, are finding it difficult to enter Sri Lanka due to the lack of a proper business visa issuance system.
“While tourist visas are available on arrival, there is currently no facility to issue business visas through this channel,” the JAAF said in a statement.
“Foreigners arriving for short term business visits are not eligible for tourist visas, leaving a critical gap in the country’s ability to accommodate overseas business visitors.
JAFF said visitors are essential to the nation’s economic recovery, particularly in sectors like apparel and manufacturing, where international engagement is vital for exports and business expansion.
JAAF urged the Government to authorize Sri Lankan embassies overseas to issue short-term, single-entry business visas as an interim solution.
“This would ensure that genuine business visitors can legally travel to Sri Lanka on the appropriate visa preventing further disruption to trade and industry.” (Colombo/Aug10/2024)