"For whites only": Sri Lanka canceled visas for Russians

"Only for whites" : Sri Lanka canceled visas for Russians

Russians and Ukrainians who have started illegal businesses in Sri Lanka with free tourist visas have sparked outrage over "whites only" posts on social media. All Ukrainian and Russian citizens were then ordered to leave the country or reapply for visas by March 8.

Sri Lanka's Ministry of Tourism has ordered Russian and Ukrainian tourists to leave the country within two weeks, saying their visas have been suspended. Citizens of Russia and Ukraine cannot stay in the country beyond March 8, 2024.

Since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Sri Lanka has allowed Russians and Ukrainians to stay in the country without paying visas, but now has to pay the fees. If they want to stay in Sri Lanka, a 30-day visa costs about $50, Public Security Minister Tiran Alles told Reuters.

"Those who want to stay can apply for new visas," Alles added. "They can immediately renew their visas and stay here."

"This has nothing to do with ordinary tourists," said Harin Fernando, Sri Lanka's tourism minister. "We're more than welcome to them...no problem."

Restaurants, bars, car rentals, and entertainment are for whites only

According to various estimates, more than 288,000 Russians and nearly 20,000 Ukrainian citizens visited the South Asian country in 2022-2024 after the start of Russia's aggression against Ukraine . The Sri Lankan government has provided them with free long-term tourist visas. However, some Russians have started doing business without going through the appropriate lists, prompting immigration officials to conduct raids.

The racist policies of illegally run Russian enterprises are causing protests. In particular, their announcements appeared on social networks that only white people can enter bars and restaurants, car rental, and water facilities.

Immigration authorities have also identified other cases of abuse of tourist visas by citizens of Russia and Ukraine. In particular, foreigners were employed in illegal business activities managed by them, and local regulations were violated, writes Hindustan Times.

The Southeast Asian island nation has introduced 30-day visas on arrival and extended visas of up to six months in 2022 as part of national efforts to attract more tourists and combat the economic crisis it has experienced, the Independent reported.

The comment states that Russian and Ukrainian digital nomads should step up, as other popular destinations for this community have recently faced similar issues.

If you are currently in hot spots with Russian/Ukrainian communities like Goa, Phuket, Bali, etc., you may see an influx of these nationalities moving into your area.

Some comments condemn traveling to another country and setting up illegal businesses, and on top of that, local residents are denied entry.

Many Russians moved to Goa, India, and set up their own businesses, driving the local vendors off the beach, which is why such activities are often not allowed.