Sri Lanka Implements E Visas

Please be aware of the new regulation. Make sure all are informed of this to avoid hassle at the respective airports. We have not received any official announcements as yet but this was on the Sri Lanka news portal. For any inquiries, advise pax to contact the Sri Lanka High Commission on 3322845.

Sri Lanka to start e-visa for 78 countries

Sri Lanka will start electronic visa approval for 78 countries with a online portal being opened after September 30, but Singapore and Maldives nationals will continue to be given on arrival visas at entry points.

The online visas could be applied through http://www.eta.gov.lk/ , Sri Lanka's department of immigration and emigration said.

The border agency said applications have to be submitted in English but explanatory information would be given on the site in nine languages.

'Electronic travel authorization' could be sought by applicants themselves, a third party, a registered agent and Sri Lankan embassies.

Air and ship crew and citizens of Maldives and Singapore would continue to get 'visa on arrival' facilities at entry points.

Both Maldives and Singapore give visa on arrival facilities to Sri Lankan nationals.

http://www.lbo.lk/fullstory.php?nid=605463282

Rgds

Liswith

Magical Dubai (MALE)

GMR issues notice for US$25 fee from Maldives airport

GMR Male International Private Limited has asked airlines to take the Airport Development Fee (ADF) of US$25 from every international passenger, commencing January 1, 2012.

A company official said prior notice was given to the airlines to take the fee, approved by the government under the airport lease agreement, in order to give enough time for the airlines to prepare.

The fee is to be included in the air ticket fare.

“We’re allowed to take the fee from passengers leaving the Maldives, commencing January 1, 2012. We’ve given the notice six months before in order to give enough time for the airlines to prepare,” the official said.

GMR’s decision came hours after the Civil Court held the first hearing of the case filed by the opposition alliance in a bid to block GMR from taking US$27, which includes the US$25 Airport Development Fee and a US$2 insurance fee.

Read more: http://www.maldivestourismupdate.com/#ixzz1N6XzSouO