The Hon. (Ms.) Harini Amarasuriya

¶ 01 Answers:

¶ 02 1. 25,514 Israeli nationals visited Sri Lanka during the last year. 2. The Department of Immigration and Emigration system records nationality but not military status; therefore, we cannot provide a number for IDF members arriving as tourists. 3. Legally, persons on tourist visas cannot conduct business. However, we are aware that not only some Israelis but also nationals of various countries engage in business while here as tourists. We recognize this as an issue and are formulating measures to curb it. 4. The Government does not issue business or investment visas to tourists, including Israelis, for starting businesses/industries. Where laws are violated, we will intervene. 5. Since 2020, no arrests of Israelis without valid visas have been reported by police. One Israeli national without a valid visa is currently held at the Mirihana Detention Centre of the Department of Immigration and Emigration. 6. No permissions have been granted by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs or its Departments to establish religious or similar centres for Israeli nationals. We have information that such centres are being operated without authorization; we are monitoring and discussing appropriate action, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also engaging. 7. Not applicable, as no permissions have been granted.