Sri Lanka tightening entry conditions for tourists

Due to the increase in the incidence of COVID-19, the Sri Lankan authorities have tightened the conditions of entry for those arriving from abroad, Report informs referring to RIA Novosti.

On May 12, the Ministry of Health issued new rules for foreign visitors. All travelers, regardless of whether they are vaccinated against coronavirus or not, will be quarantined for two weeks in certified hotels. This requirement will remain in effect until the end of May, although in March vaccinated foreigners were exempted from self-isolation.

Under the new protocol, children under two years old are exempt from PCR testing for COVID-19. All tourists over 12 years old must be tested on the first and 11-14 days of stay in the country.

Travelers can leave the certified hotel only after two weeks of quarantine, subject to negative test results.

In addition, due to the increase in morbidity, from May 17, a curfew will be in effect from 11 p.m. until 4 a.m., including for foreign guests.

Restaurants can operate at 25 percent occupancy and provide food delivery services. Bars, casinos, bookmakers and massage parlors will remain closed, as will gyms, cinemas, parks and swimming pools.

There are almost no foreigners in Sri Lanka. According to the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), in the first four months of 2021, the number of arrivals decreased by 97 percent compared to the same period last year, to 13,800 guests.