Travel Report for Sri Lanka

Country Profile for
Sri Lanka

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: November 30, 2006 14:55 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 21:49 EST

Sri Lanka

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Section 6 has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to this country. (IDW7)

You are advised against non-essential travel to Sri Lanka unless you have critical business or family reasons to do so. Travellers should be aware that violence is not restricted to the north and east of Sri Lanka; over the past weeks, there have been an increasing number of violent incidents in the south, including several bomb attacks in Colombo and one in Kandy. Such incidents can take place at any time without prior warning. Furthermore, roads in and around Colombo and in the North and East especially may be closed with little notice. Large public gatherings should also be avoided.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. Canadians in the specified region(s) should leave. (IDW4)

You are advised against all travel to areas in the east and north of the country, including Kilinochchi, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara Districts, the Jaffna Peninsula, Mannar and Vavuniya. Fighting broke out between the Government's Security Forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in Jaffna District on August 11, 2006, and in Trincomalee District in late July. Fighting included the use of ground forces, aerial and artillery strikes and mines. The security situation remains highly unstable and Canadians in the east and north should leave.

You are also advised against all travel to Wilpattu National Park in northwestern Sri Lanka where tourists were killed in a landmine explosion in May 2006.

There has been a rise in the number of incidents of violence involving the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the Security Forces and other armed groups since late March 2006. In addition to clashes between these groups in areas close to the LTTE-controlled territory, there have also been a number of deadly attacks on military and civilian targets in Government-controlled areas of the north and east. Please be aware that not all targets are military and have included civilians and NGO staff and offices.

In December 2005, the Sri Lankan government announced new arrangements for foreigners seeking to enter the LTTE-controlled areas of the north and east. Foreign staff of diplomatic missions, international organizations and international NGOs accredited with the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs will be allowed to cross entry and exit checkpoints into LTTE-controlled areas without restriction. All other foreigners, including visiting journalists, must seek approval from the Ministry of Defence before they will be allowed to enter LTTE-controlled areas.

State of Emergency

In August 2005, a state of emergency was declared by the President following the assassination of Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar. Although the state of emergency does not affect visitors directly, it does give additional powers to the security forces to set up road blocks, conduct searches without warrant and detain individuals. It also outlaws demonstrations. Caution should be exercised when travelling to Colombo. There has also been an increase in the number of security personnel patrolling the streets of the city.

Much of the north and east remains heavily mined. Travellers should pay attention to signs warning of mines and avoid travelling off the main A-9 road. Please note that as a result of the tsunami of December 2004, many of the landmines in the conflict-affected northeast have shifted and therefore it is difficult to know where they are now located. Although some of these mines have been cleared, an unknown number remains, and you are advised to exercise caution in these areas.

Although a cease-fire agreement was signed between government forces and the LTTE in February 2002, terrorist activity and unrest still remains. Sporadic acts of violence have occurred in the north and in the east of the country and in the capital, Colombo. Armed groups continue to operate in these areas and the security situation remains uncertain, with heightened risks of armed clashes between the LTTE, government security forces, and other armed groups. A split by an Eastern faction of the LTTE in 2004 has resulted in regular attacks and targeted killings between the two factions.

Civilian transport does not follow a set schedule and is at times sporadic, although commercial flights are now available locally. LTTE authorization is required to travel into the north and east LTTE-controlled territories; however, the request process is unclear.

Foreigners have not been specifically targeted, but in the past the LTTE has undertaken terrorist attacks against locations frequented by tourists, such as the international airport. Canadians should be vigilant at all times, avoid large crowds and demonstrations and monitor local developments closely. Curfew regulations should be strictly followed.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to this country despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Violent crime occurs. Tourist facilities and tourists are generally not targeted, but isolated incidents have occurred. Politically motivated violence is common, particularly during elections. Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing occurs, especially on public transportation. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times. Travel to remote areas should be arranged through a reputable travel agency. Women should exercise caution when travelling alone.

Sri Lankan defence regulations restrict travel in much of the north, including Wilpattu and Gal-Oya national parks. Access to Yala National Park is authorized via the southwest entry gate. The southwestern third of the island, running from north of Colombo to the cultural triangle (Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla) and down to Yala National Park, as well as all of the coast within that area, is open to travel. Travel along the southern coast and in the tea plantations, where most of the resorts are located, is generally safe.

Attacks against ships around Sri Lanka have occurred in the past. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. The northern, eastern, and southeastern coastlines have been declared restricted zones by Sri Lankan authorities and should be avoided. The Sri Lankan navy has fired upon unauthorized ships in these areas. Entry into Sri Lankan waters, at any point, requires prior permission. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the Commercial Crime Services division of the International Chamber of Commerce.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Traffic drives on the left. Serious accidents involving Sri Lankan railways have occurred. Buses can also be unsafe.

Roadblocks and other security measures may sometimes be encountered. Travellers should obey all instructions. Police and military forces conduct security sweeps throughout the country. Canadians of Tamil origin have experienced difficulties, including arrest and/or detention. Canadians of Sri Lankan origin may wish to bear this in mind when considering travel to Sri Lanka.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The monsoon season extends from December to March in the northeast and June to October in the southwest. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

See our Current Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Effective December 1, 2006, smoking and alcohol consumption in public places is prohibited. Penalties for such offences include a fine and/or imprisonment.

Homosexuality is illegal. Convicted offenders may face lengthy jail sentences. Photography and videotaping of government and military installations is prohibited. Penalties for all drug offences are severe.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Sri Lanka - COLOMBO, High Commission of Canada
Address: 6 Gregory's Road, Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1006, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Tel.: 94 (11) 532-6232 or 522-6232
Fax: 94 (11) 532-6299 or 522-6299
E-mail: clmbo-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.srilanka.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Canadian High Commission in Colombo and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Colombo is 2430077, where a Canadian operator is always available. Outside Colombo, the Canada Direct access number is 011-2430077. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of Sri Lanka and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on October 16, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the High Commission for the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Sri Lanka. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from the country. Canadians must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.

A tourist visa is required for stays of over 30 days and can be obtained, prior to departure, from the High Commission of Sri Lanka or one of its consulates. Canadian tourists can also be issued a 30-day visa free of charge upon arrival. However, to avoid the possibility of being refused entry or experiencing lengthy delays upon arrival, it is recommended that all travellers obtain appropriate visas prior to departure. Effective November 1, 2006, visas obtained at a port of entry can not be extended.

Tourist Visa: Not required (only for stays less than 30 days)
Business Visa: Required
Student Visa: Required
Work Visa: Required

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee. Most major banks will change U.S. dollar traveller's cheques as well as permit Visa and MasterCard cash withdrawals. Credit cards are widely accepted in major urban and tourist centres. There are ATMs in major cities but some do not accept international cards.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

Sri Lanka (capital: Colombo) is an island in the Indian Ocean, south of India. The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil. English is widely spoken. Tourist facilities are widely available in Colombo and coastal areas in the west and southwest.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Serious medical problems may require evacuation to Canada or to the nearest country where adequate medical facilities exist (Singapore).

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

N/A

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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