Russian-Ukrainian conflict: SL to extend visas for Ukrainian tourists held up in SL

The government is considering to extend the visas of Ukrainian tourists who are unable to return their home country due to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said.

He said a proposal will be submitted during tomorrow’s Cabinet meeting seeking its approval.

The Minister said that the Ministry of External Affairs is already in talks with the Department of Immigration and Emigration in this regard.

He said visas for tourists are issued for a minimum of one month and the necessary steps will be taken considering the expiration date of visas issued to Ukrainians who are staying in the country.

According to the Tourism Development Authority, nearly 4,000 Ukrainian tourists are currently staying in Sri Lanka, while the number of Russian tourists staying in Sri Lanka is closer to 11,500.(Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya)