Visa controversy: FSP makes fresh allegation

The ongoing controversy over external involvement in the issuance of on-arrival visas at the BIA (Bandaranaike International Airport) has taken a dramatic turn with Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) spokesman Pubudu Jagoda alleging that a private company was being paid USD 10 per single entry visa out of USD 50 received by the government.

Jagoda has said the beneficiary is the VFS Global-led group. The Department of Immigration and Emigration recently finalised a tripartite agreement with GBS Technology Services with IVS Global FZCO as the prime contractor and VFS Global as the technology partner for the Sri Lanka government’s new E-Visa scheme.

The government on 06 May reversed its decision to double the tourist visa fee from USD 50 to $100 for a 30-day visit. The President’s Office made the announcement in the wake of backlash from local tourism stakeholders and issues at key entry points at BIA.

Addressing the media yesterday, Jagoda said that the government announcement was meant to dupe the public into believing that Sri Lanka was again receiving USD 50 per single entry visa. But in reality a third party benefited, he added.

Jagoda said that before the Department of Immigration and Emigration entered into agreement with VFS Global-led group the entire sum of USD 50 had gone into the state coffers.

Jagoda asked whether the government was raising money, through underhand means, for the upcoming presidential election.

The Cabinet of Ministers owed an explanation and Parliament should look into this matter, the FSP Spokesman said. (SF)