UK ETA Glitch Threatens Arrivals from Second Largest Source Market ✈️

• Tourism authorities are addressing a technical issue preventing UK travelers from receiving Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) approval notices. • Despite the glitch, travelers who have applied can proceed; airlines have been instructed to allow boarding without the notice. Verification will be handled upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). • The UK is Sri Lanka's second largest source market, contributing 212,277 arrivals in 2025. • For the first 15 days of February 2026, UK arrivals reached 17,807, bringing the year-to-date (YTD) total to 47,347 visitors. • This disruption occurs during the critical winter peak season. The UK market is vital for foreign exchange inflows due to higher per capita spending and longer average stays compared to regional markets. • Authorities are working to restore normal services to maintain momentum in Sri Lanka’s premium tourism recovery and avoid administrative uncertainty for long-haul travelers. 📉