DHAKA, April 6, 2026 (BSS) — 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.

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.

Chaired by Sri Lankan's High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dharmapala Weerakkody, SLTPB Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam and TOAB President Mohammad Rafeuzzaman attended the function as the special guests.

Anwar Hossain, Vice-President of TOAB, said the existing visa-on-arrival fee poses a financial burden 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 said.

Currently, Sri Lanka requires all foreign travellers, including Bangladeshis, to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or e-visa prior to arrival to avoid processing delays. 
While visa-on-arrival facilities remain available, they typically entail higher processing costs compared to pre-approved online options.

Since late 2025, Sri Lankan authorities have placed increased emphasis on pre-arrival authorization, moving away from previously more flexible and, in some instances, free on-arrival visa arrangements.

Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Weerakkody underscored the strong potential for bilateral tourism cooperation. "Such initiatives can serve as milestones in boosting the tourism industries of both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka," he said.

A destination presentation at the event highlighted Sri Lanka's diverse attractions, including luxury travel offerings, family-friendly options, and improved air connectivity and accommodation facilities.

SLTPB Chairman Hewawasam said Sri Lanka is now widely regarded as one of the safest and most attractive tourist destinations globally and noted that efforts are underway to ensure more affordable packages and enhanced services for Bangladeshi visitors.

TOAB President Rafeuzzaman welcomed the initiative, saying it would strengthen ties among tourism stakeholders and lay the groundwork for further collaboration between the two countries.

Discussions at the session were also centered 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.