The move comes in response to concerns raised by industry stakeholders and aims to rectify loopholes in the new visa system launched by the Government last week.

“Public Securities Minister Tiran Alles has forwarded a proposal to the Parliament Consultative Committee to enable the online visa application process, for travellers to be charged a reduced fee of $ 50 from $ 75 at present.

The committee is set to convene this week to discuss the proposal, with plans to implement the changes from 1 May,” Tourism Minister Harin Fernando said.

On 17 April, the launch of new visa protocols replaced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and the 30-day single-entry visa, which compelled tourists a mandatory multiple entry six-month fee at $ 75.

However, the decision faced backlash due to concerns about its adverse effects on tourism, where critics argued the imposition of inflexible surcharges on visa fees could render Sri Lanka less competitive and deter potential visitors