Sri Lankan authorities have arrested at least 21 Indian nationals for engaging in unauthorized business activities while in the country on tourist visas, violating relaxed visa rules.
The individuals, aged 24 to 25, were apprehended by the Immigration Department, a senior immigration official revealed. After a preliminary investigation, the department raided a rental property in Negombo, a famous tourist town on the west coast, where the arrested were found using a computer company, VisaGuide.World reports.
According to reports in the Daily Mirror newspaper, Indian citizens took advantage of Sri Lanka’s visa-free policy, which extends to some countries until March 31, as part of an ongoing drive to boost tourism in the economically challenged country. Arriving in February and March on tourist visas, they are believed to have used the visa privileges for their commercial endeavors.
Immigration authorities have highlighted numerous complaints about tourists from Russia and Ukraine engaging in business activities while on tourist visas in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Sees a Shift in Visitor Rankings in 2024
Moreover, India typically represents Sri Lanka’s largest inbound tourism market. However, in February, India ranked second in arrivals, with over 30,000 visitors, trailing behind the Russian Federation, which recorded over 32,000 arrivals.
Highlighting the significance of India, Harin Fernando, the Minister responsible for Tourism, Lands, Sports, and Youth Affairs, underscored its status as Bali’s second-largest source market. Additionally, in terms of overall foot traffic, India ranks sixth.
In November 2023, Sri Lanka implemented a free visa regime for tourists from several countries, including India, China, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan.
Sri Lanka Considers Extending Visa Waiver for Indian Tourists
Last month, the country entertained the idea of extending the visa waiver for Indian visitors beyond March 2024, potentially ensuring uninterrupted travel to the island nation.
Initially introduced as a pilot initiative in November of the previous year, the program, slated to conclude on March 31, 2024, permits Indian travelers to enjoy visa-free entry for the initial 30 days of their stay. Upon arrival, visitors receive dual-entry privileges, with visa validity restricted to 30 days within Sri Lanka.
Regarding visitor origin arrivals, India emerged as the leading source market, contributing 64,426 visitors, closely followed by the Russian Federation with 63,189 arrivals. The United Kingdom trails slightly behind, with 37,279 tourists exploring Sri Lanka’s attractions.
The Government of India has further revealed that as of March 31, 2023, camps in Tamil Nadu accommodate 58,457 refugees. In addition, there are 33,375 refugees residing outside these camps.