Visa on Arrival Refusal: Traveller Process and Airline Responsibility Explained

When a visa on arrival is refused, travellers remain under the control of airport authorities, typically held in transit or dedicated detention facilities. Airlines are initially responsible for arranging repatriation to the point of origin or an admissible location, covering custody and care costs for improperly documented passengers. However, under ICAO frameworks, airlines may recover these transportation expenses from the passenger. The exact process, including who covers the return flight, depends on the refusal reason and the country's specific regulations, as highlighted by Sri Lankan airport procedures where passengers bear return flight costs.