Prime Minister Worried About Businesses Operating on Tourist Visas

The government has expressed concerns regarding individuals conducting business in the country while on tourist visas. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized that it is not legally allowed to engage in business activities on a tourist visa, and appropriate legal action will be taken against such cases.

These statements were made by the Prime Minister in response to a query raised by an opposition member during the parliamentary session on January 8.

She further explained:

“Last year, 25,514 Israeli nationals visited Sri Lanka. While the Department of Immigration and Emigration records their arrivals as Israeli nationals, it does not categorize individuals by occupation such as armed forces personnel. Business activities on a tourist visa are not permitted by law in our country. However, we are aware that tourists from different countries, including Israelis, are involved in business activities here. This is a matter of concern that we have identified, and discussions are ongoing to address it. Measures are being put in place to prevent such practices.

The government does not grant visas for investment projects like establishing businesses or industries to tourists, including Israelis. Since 2020, no Israelis without valid visas have been held in police stations or operational units while staying in the country. Presently, only one Israeli national without a visa is in police custody.

It is our duty to safeguard tourists who visit our country. In the case of the Arugam Bay incident, security measures were heightened in the area based on intelligence information.”