Colombo, Sri Lanka – The Department of Immigration and Emigration is set to begin an operation in early November targeting tourists from Israel, Russia, and Ukraine who have overstayed their visas. According to a report by the *Daily Mirror*, the operation will focus on the southern and eastern coastal areas, particularly as the region’s peak tourist season is set to start, attracting an influx of travelers from both Western and Eastern countries.
Sri Lankan authorities note that many tourists initially receive a 30-day visa upon arrival, and while some apply for extensions, others continue to stay in the country without valid visas. Immigration officers have previously conducted inspections along the eastern coast, including popular tourist destinations such as Arugam Bay, but were reportedly unable to detain overstayers, including Israeli nationals.
The operation comes amidst tightened travel regulations as outlined by the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, which has recently updated its travel advisory, citing security concerns for their citizens on a possible attack in Arugambay, Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka. . These advisories emphasize the importance of compliance with local visa laws and the need for tourists to respect immigration regulations.
The crackdown highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring legal compliance among visitors, especially as Sri Lanka prepares for the anticipated influx of tourists between November and March, coinciding with the high season along the southern coast. Special inspection tours will reportedly be conducted from November to April on the south coast and May to September on the east coast.
Cracking them down and deporting them and not issue any visa to Israel is the best thing to do until the war is over. Keep them out then we want have enemies.