Dhaka: Tour operators in Bangladesh have urged Sri Lanka to waive visa-on-arrival fees for Bangladeshi travellers and introduce more affordable tourism packages as part of efforts to boost visitor numbers between the two South Asian neighbours.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, leaders of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) made the appeal at a special “Media Networking Session” organised by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) at a city hotel on Sunday evening. The event was chaired by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody, with SLTPB Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam and TOAB President Mohammad Rafeuzzaman attending as special guests.
Anwar Hossain, Vice-President of TOAB, highlighted the financial burden posed by the existing visa-on-arrival fee on Bangladeshi tourists. “On-arrival visa fees for SAARC countries, including Bangladesh, range between 25 and 30 US dollars, approximately Taka 2,700 to Taka 3,500. Waiving this fee would provide significant relief for our tourists,” he stated.
Currently, Sri Lanka mandates all foreign travellers, including Bangladeshis, to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or e-visa prior to arrival to prevent processing delays. Although visa-on-arrival facilities are available, they typically involve higher processing costs compared to pre-approved online options. Since late 2025, Sri Lankan authorities have emphasized pre-arrival authorization, moving away from previously more flexible and, in some cases, free on-arrival visa arrangements.
High Commissioner Weerakkody, addressing the gathering, emphasized the strong potential for bilateral tourism cooperation, stating, “Such initiatives can serve as milestones in boosting the tourism industries of both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.” A destination presentation at the event showcased Sri Lanka’s attractions, including luxury travel offerings, family-friendly options, and enhanced air connectivity and accommodation facilities.
SLTPB Chairman Hewawasam noted that Sri Lanka is now considered one of the safest and most attractive tourist destinations globally. He highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure more affordable packages and enhanced services for Bangladeshi visitors.
TOAB President Rafeuzzaman welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about strengthening ties among tourism stakeholders and setting the stage for further collaboration between the two countries. Discussions also focused on expanding tourism prospects, improving airline connectivity, and upgrading travel-related facilities for visitors on both sides.
Today, the Grand Ballroom of the same hotel will host an exclusive business-to-business road show and networking evening for tourism trade partners.