CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Sri Lanka

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 1 has been updated (H1N1).

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Sri Lanka

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Sri Lanka, as incidents of violence can occur without notice and may not be restricted to the north and east of the country. A nationwide state of emergency is still in effect. As a result, there is a heightened security force presence, including checkpoints, and roads may be closed on short notice.

Even though the conflict between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the Sri Lanka Army ended in May 2009, the army is still active in the north and the east of the country.

Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, as the security situation could deteriorate quickly and without warning.

In recent years, the conflict between LTTE and army forces resulted in a number of violent attacks throughout the country, including several incidents in Colombo. Victims have included military personnel, government officials, and civilians.

On July 25, 2009, clashes between two local rival religious factions in Beruwala (South West) resulted in two deaths, injuries to civilians, and damages to a mosque and other properties. On March 10, 2009, an explosion outside a mosque in the Matara district caused several deaths and injuries. Subsequently, Sri Lankan authorities announced restrictions on public gatherings.

Canadians in Sri Lanka should avoid any travel on public buses or trains, as these have been targets of attacks. They should also avoid military installations, government and military convoys and, where possible, government buildings, as they have also been targets for violence in the past. Explosions have occurred in public areas, including on the road from the capital to the airport. Travellers should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, monitor local news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.
 
Yala National Park was closed for several months following an attack, but it has since reopened. Clashes between the LTTE and the Sri Lanka Army occurred in September 2008.

Canadians of Tamil origin have experienced difficulties, including arrest and/or detention, during screening and security operations. All Canadians should carry proper identification at all time.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to Wilpattu National Park in northwestern Sri Lanka, where tourists were killed in a landmine explosion in May 2006. The park remains closed to the public.

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises 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, as the security situation remains volatile and tense and may change on short notice. Canadians currently in these regions should leave if it is safe to do so. The Sri Lanka Army is still active in the north and the east of the country.

Access to most areas in the east and north is strictly regulated by the Sri Lankan government. Rigorous security measures, including a curfew, remain in place in the Jaffna Peninsula.

Large quantities of unmarked landmines remain in the north and east.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Security situation

The island is now entirely under the control of the Sri Lankan government. The security situation has improved since the end of the conflict; however, there remains a high risk of violence, as caches of weapons continue to be found throughout the country. Canadians should be vigilant at all times, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and monitor local developments closely.

Even though foreigners have not been specifically targeted, some terrorist attacks have taken place in locations frequented by tourists. Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo’s main international airport, has been attacked in the past. Security checks are frequent on the road to the airport.
Travellers are advised to carry personal identification at all times and comply with government and security force instructions. They should also expect traffic disruptions due to security checks.

State of emergency

A state of emergency has been in effect since August 2005. Under the state of emergency, security forces have additional powers to set up roadblocks, conduct searches without warrant, and detain individuals. Demonstrations are outlawed. Caution should be exercised when travelling to Colombo. There are an increased number of security personnel patrolling the streets of the city.

Curfews may be imposed on short notice and regulations should be strictly followed.

Demonstrations 

Visitors should be aware that the prospect of general elections in the coming months may lead to large and occasionally unruly public demonstrations. Canadians should exercise caution, avoid areas where demonstrations are being held and follow the advice of local authorities.

Landmines

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. As a result of the tsunami of December 2004, many of the landmines in the 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 remain, and you are advised to exercise caution in these areas.

Crime

Violent crime occurs. Tourist facilities and tourists are generally not targeted, but isolated incidents have occurred. Politically motivated violence occurs, 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. Tourist facilities are widely available in Colombo and coastal areas in the west and southwest. 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 of lower risk to travellers.

Kidnappings

Kidnapping of foreign nationals for ransom in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, has occurred. Violence against aid workers has also occurred.

Days of national significance
Canadians travelling to Sri Lanka should be particularly vigilant in the lead-up to and on days of national significance, such as the National Day (February 4), May Day (May 1), and Heroes’ Day (November 27), as militants have used such occasions to mount attacks in the past.

Piracy

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.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions 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 destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of Sri Lanka. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the High Commission for the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and its consulates, for up-to-date information.

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 Canada, 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. Visas obtained at a port of entry cannot be extended.

Sri Lankan authorities are very strict in their treatment of people who overstay their visas. Overstaying a visa, even for only a couple of days, can result in detainment.

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

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

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 all visa requirements for this and other destinations, 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 or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions 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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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

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

Sri Lanka - COLOMBO, High Commission of Canada
Address: 33-A 5th Lane, Colpetty, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1006, Colombo,
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 High Commission of Canada in Colombo and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

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 Health Web site.

There are current or recent outbreaks of chikungunya in areas of Africa and Asia and the Indian subcontinent, including India, Indonesia, Madagascar, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand. For more information, see the Public Health Agency of Canada's (PHAC) website.

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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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. In the event of a major accident or illness, medical evacuation is often necessary. Canadian travellers should be aware that medical transport is very expensive and payment up front is often required.

Authorities in Sri Lanka have implemented enhanced measures at the international airports in response to the H1N1 flu virus outbreak.

There is an increase in reported cases of dengue fever throughout the country, including in Colombo. Residents and travellers are advised to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves from contracting dengue fever by using mosquito repellent (containing DEET) and avoiding areas where mosquitoes are prevalent. People experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to seek medical attention immediately.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death 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 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

Smoking and alcohol consumption in public places are prohibited. Penalties for such offences include a fine and/or imprisonment.

Homosexual activity 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 and may include the death penalty.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Traffic drives on the left. Vehicle and driving standards are poor and, as a result, numerous traffic accidents resulting in death and injuries occur. Serious accidents involving Sri Lankan railways have occurred. Buses are not well maintained and crashes occur often.

Travellers may experience lengthy delays while travelling to the airport due to the possibility of checkpoints or detours set up by local authorities. It is recommended that travellers confirm their flight details prior to departure.

Road access between Jaffna and the rest of the country has been reopened since August 2009.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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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 automated baking machines in major cities, but some do not accept international cards.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs 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. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The monsoon season extends from December to March in the northeast and June to October in the southwest.

Sri Lanka is subject to tropical cyclones. Canadians should be aware that storms can start suddenly, veer in unexpected directions, and quickly increase in intensity. Tropical cyclones are usually accompanied by high winds and heavy rain. Canadians should monitor regional weather forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities. During any storm, flash floods and mudslides may occur. Delivery of essential services may be interrupted including medical services, power, and telecommunications. Damage to transportation routes and infrastructure may occur. Canadians are advised to maintain a flexible schedule to allow for unexpected interruptions.

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

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

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.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, 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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12. ANNEX

N/A

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