Sri Lanka on Friday said that preparations were underway to issue visa free for tourists from U.S., Britain and other countries effective from May 1, to boost arrivals during lean months.
Tourism Development, Wildlife and Christian Religious Affairs Minister, John Amaratunga this on Friday in Colombo.
Other countries to be granted this facility are Thailand, Australia, South Korea, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, New Zealand and countries of the EU.
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He said following its successful implementation, the facility would be extended to South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries and China, which was one of the leading markets for Sri Lanka Tourism.
The SAARC countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
The minister said the facility would initially be implemented for a trial period of six months and depending on the success rate, it would be further extended with more features to make Sri Lanka an attractive destination for tourists.
Sri Lanka is aiming to attract at least 3 million tourists and earn revenue of 5 billion dollars this year. (NAN)