SLTDA stands for the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority; the government trust this organization to develop, regulate and promote tourism within Sri Lanka. The SLTDA was founded by the Tourism Act of 2005. It helps local and international interests and ensures that the travel sector stays sustainable and safe, so shaping it.
What is the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA)?
The Ministry of Tourism in Sri Lanka looks over and supports the travel sector using the SLTDA. Participating in seminars with others helps create ideas for infrastructure development in the tourism industry, preserve customs and environment, and market Sri Lanka to visitors all around.
In addition, SLTDA tries to boost investment in tourism, supports training programs and verifies that tourism businesses follow the necessary rules and are licensed.
SLTDA Overview & Contact Details
| Established |
2005 under the Tourism Act No. 38 |
| Primary Objective | Promote Sri Lanka as a global travel destination |
| Head Office | Colombo, Sri Lanka |
| Parent Ministry | Ministry of Tourism |
| Address | Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, No. 80, Galle road, Colombo 03 |
| Telephone | +94 112 426800 / +94 112 426900 / 2437055/59/60 |
| Fax | +94 112 444165 / 2426984 |
| info@srilanka.travel | |
| Tourism Hotline | 1912 |
| Website | www.sltda.gov.lk |
| facebook.com/sltda.gov.lk | |
| X | x.com/sltda_srilanka |
| instagram.com/sltda_srilanka | |
| Downloadable Resources | |
| Online Registration Guidance Document | Download PDF |
| Online Registration Application Form | Download PDF |
| Requirements for Finance Clearance | Download PDF |
| Notice to VAT Registered Persons | Download PDF |
| Notice to the Taxpayers | Download PDF |
| Payment Structure for Tourist Establishments | Download PDF |
| Registration Process – Steps | Download PDF |
| Renewal Process – Steps | Download PDF |
| Tourism Development Policy Brief | Download PDF |
Key Responsibilities of SLTDA
The SLTDA’s core responsibilities include:
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Tourism Planning and Development: Applying national tourism plans and policies.
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Tourism Business Licensing and Registration: Controlling hotels, travel agents, and other services connected to travel.
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Investment Promotion: Encouragement of both local and international tourism-related investments.
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Tourism Infrastructure Projects: Growing areas, infrastructure, and attractions.
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E-Governance Services: Offering digital access to registrations, approvals, and payments.
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Tourism Research and Data Management: Publishing tourism statistics and trends.
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Sustainability and Safety Standards: Promoting responsible tourism and safety compliance.
SLTDA E-Services Portal
To support efficiency and transparency, the SLTDA provides a comprehensive e-services portal for:
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Tourist establishment registration & license renewal
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Online investor application submission
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Tourist guide and chauffeur licensing
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Hotel classification services
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Access to tourism statistics and research reports
Visit the official e-portal: https://www.sltda.gov.lk/
SLTDA Training & Certification Courses
The SLTDA offers tourism-related education and certification programs, including
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Tourist Guide Training (National and Site-specific)
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Hotel Management & Hospitality Courses
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Tourism Sector Language Training (German, Chinese, etc.)
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Tourism Awareness Programs for communities
These programs aim to professionalize the tourism workforce and ensure high service standards.
Sri Lanka Tourist Board Registration: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re a business or individual planning to engage in the tourism sector, registration with SLTDA is mandatory. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Process:
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Create an Account
Go to www.sltda.gov.lk and register on the e-platform.
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Select Registration Category
Choose from: Accommodation, Travel Agency, Tour Operator, Tourist Guide, etc.
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Fill the Online Application
Provide all required business and personal information.
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Upload Documents
Required documents include:-
Business registration certificate
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NIC/Passport copy
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Location sketch/map
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Fire and health clearance certificates
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Proof of ownership or lease agreement
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Pay Fees Online
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Await Inspection (If applicable)
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Receive Approval & License
Processing Time: 2–4 weeks (depending on category)
SLTDA and the Ministry of Tourism Sri Lanka
SLTDA operates under the purview of the Ministry of Tourism, aligning its strategies and projects with the national tourism vision. The Ministry provides policy direction, while SLTDA implements on-ground development, ensures regulation, and collaborates with other institutions such as:
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Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB)
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Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB)
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Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM)
Tourism Statistics at a Glance (2024)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Tourist Arrivals | 2.1 Million |
| Top Source Countries | India, UK, Germany, Russia |
| Foreign Revenue | $3.8 Billion USD |
| Jobs Created | 500,000+ |
Source: SLTDA Annual Report 2024
Benefits of SLTDA Registration
Registering with SLTDA brings several advantages:
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Legally operate in the tourism industry
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Gain credibility and visibility among travelers
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Access government grants and training programs
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Participate in trade fairs and promotions
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Feature in official tourism publications and directories
Services Provided by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority
Core Services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Licensing and Registration | Regulates the tourism industry by issuing licenses to ensure compliance with national standards. |
| Tourist Information | Manages information centers across the country to assist travelers with guidance, maps, and recommendations. |
| Destination Development | Spearheads projects to develop and enhance tourist attractions with world-class facilities. |
| Training and Education | Through seminars and training courses, supports tourism industry workforce development. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This paper seeks to answer the following questions; Despite this, more questions arise as follows;
1.What is the main objective of SLTDA?
- The main role and responsibility of SLTDA is to market Sri Lanka as a predominant tourism destination and establish sustainable tourism.
2. What measures do I need to undertake in order to get a tourism business license?
- They can apply for a license through SLTDA’s official website since they provide the online application, and all documentation has to be submitted online.
3. Does SLTDA help overseas investors?
- Yes, SLTDA engages in offering extensive assistance to investors from other countries through the offering of projects, as well as offering legal advice on the same.
4. What does SLTDA do for sustainable tourism?
- The government of SLTDA supports eco-tourism and ensure that any tourism policy implemented benefits the natural and cultural site without leaving a trace.
5. How can the visitors apply to SLTDA and get its services?
- Tourists seeking information or help, or planning their trips, can visit SLTDA’s information centers, the official website or the mobile application.
