Sri Lanka has announced an extension of its visa-free entry initiative for visitors from 7 countries until April 30, 2024. Citizens of India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand were first approved for visa-free entry by the Cabinet of Ministers in October 2023. The program was initially due to last until March 31. However,
Sri Lanka Tourist ETA Online
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▾Sri Lanka Tourist ETA Information
The Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an online system that most foreign nationals must register with before visiting the country.
The Sri Lanka ETA was introduced in 2012 to make it easier for travelers to authorize their trips. It functions as the equivalent of a Sri Lanka online visa.
Registration is quick and easy. Simply enter your details into a short Sri Lanka ETA online application form to authorize your visit.
The ETA for Sri Lanka is a double entry travel authorization.
It is valid for 180 days from the date of issue.
The Sri Lankan ETA allows eligible citizens to spend up to 30 days in the country per visit.
ETA holders can enter Sri Lanka through all types of ports of entry, including by air if arriving in an international airport or by sea if traveling by cruise ship.
For purposes other than tourism, business or transit, foreign citizens are required to contact the Sri Lanka Consulate or Embassy.
Highlights
Double entry electronic travel authorization
Stay up to 30 days in Sri Lanka
Valid for 180 days from approval
Electronically linked to the traveler’s passport
Available for tourism purposes, as well as business travel, or transit
What do I need?
Passport with minimum 180 days validity
Current email address
Valid credit/debit card
Sri Lanka ETA Visa Requirements
The Sri Lanka Tourist ETA can be obtained by completing an quick online form.
To apply for the Sri Lanka ETA visa online for tourism, applicants must have a:
- Passport valid for at least 180 days from the intended arrival date in Sri Lanka.
- Credit or debit card to pay the ETA Sri Lanka fee.
- Current email address to receive the approved Sri Lanka Tourist Electronic Travel Authorization.
To obtain a Sri Lanka Tourist ETA, the reason for your trip must be tourism and/or leisure, including the following purposes:
- Holidays
- Vacations
- To visit friends or relatives
- To participate in a sporting or cultural event or competition
When arriving in Sri Lanka, it is advisable to bring a printed copy of the ETA as well as the passport it is registered to. The following items are also required:
- Return ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in Sri Lanka
Countries Eligible for Sri Lanka
Citizens from the countries listed below are eligible to apply online to enter Sri Lanka
- Afghanistan
- Aland Islands
- Albania
- Algeria
- American Samoa
- Andorra
- Angola
- Anguilla
- Antarctica
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Armenia
- Aruba
- Australia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Bahamas
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Belize
- Benin
- Bermuda
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Bonaire
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Brazil
- British Indian Ocean Territory
- British Virgin Islands
- Brunei Darussalam
- Bulgaria
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Canada
- Cape Verde
- Cayman Islands
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Chile
- China
- Christmas Island
- Cocos Islands
- Colombia
- Comoros
- Congo
- Cook Islands
- Costa Rica
- Croatia
- Cuba
- Curacao
- Czech Republic
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Denmark
- Djibouti
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Egypt
- El Salvador
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Estonia
- Ethiopia
- Falkland Islands
- Faroe Islands
- Federated States of Micronesia
- Fiji
- Finland
- France
- French Guiana
- French Polynesia
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Greenland
- Grenada
- Guadeloupe
- Guam
- Guatemala
- Guernsey
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Hong Kong
- Hungary
- Iceland
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Ireland
- Isle of Man
- Israel
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Jersey
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Libya
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Macau
- Macedonia
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Malaysia
- Mali
- Malta
- Marshall Islands
- Martinique
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Mayotte
- Mexico
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Montserrat
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Nepal
- Netherlands
- New Caledonia
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Niger
- Niue
- Norfolk Island
- North Korea
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Norway
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Palau
- Palestinian Territory
- Panama
- Papua New Guinea
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Philippines
- Pitcairn Islands
- Poland
- Portugal
- Puerto Rico
- Qatar
- Republic of Cyprus
- Reunion
- Romania
- Russian Federation
- Rwanda
- Saint Barthelemy
- Saint Helena
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Martin
- Saint Pierre and Miquelon
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Saudi Arabia
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Sierra Leone
- Sint Maarten
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
- South Korea
- South Sudan
- Spain
- Sudan
- Suriname
- Svalbard and Jan Mayen
- Swaziland
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Togo
- Tokelau
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tunisia
- Turkey
- Turkmenistan
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- Tuvalu
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
- United States Virgin Islands
- Uruguay
- Uzbekistan
- Vanuatu
- Vatican City
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Wallis and Futuna
- Yemen
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Complete the Sri Lanka ETA application form online
First, complete the simple Sri Lanka ETA online application. This can be done in a matter of minutes.
Applicants must provide some basic personal, passport, and travel details and enter this information in the appropriate fields of an online form. An email address is also required in order to receive the approved ETA.
After entering the data, travelers are advised to double-check all their answers before submitting the application.
Confirm payment for the Sri Lanka ETA
Applicants will need a credit or debit card to cover the Sri Lanka ETA application processing fee. Once the required details have been entered into the online questionnaire, the traveler will be prompted to enter their card details.
They must then confirm the payment to submit the application for processing.
The entire process is quick and easy and all transactions are protected by secure servers. The applicant then simply waits to receive the ETA for Sri Lanka.
Receive the approved ETA for Sri Lanka
The Sri Lanka ETA is typically processed quickly. Travelers can expect to receive an email containing the travel permit within 3-20 working days after the application form has been submitted.
Once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to the applicant’s passport.
The applicant will receive the travel authorization at the email address provided in the online form. It is advisable to print a copy of the ETA to present at Sri Lankan border control.
Travelers should use the same passport registered in the online application to enter the country with the Sri Lanka ETA.
Country policy
Sri Lanka Visa Policy
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Familiarize yourself with the Sri Lanka visa policy and discover the travel requirements for your nationality.
Other Visas
In addition to granting travel authorization for tourism, the Sri Lanka ETA is also available for purposes of business or to transit to an onward destination.
Sri Lanka Business ETA Information
The Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Business visa allows the holder to visit the country for business purposes. These include:
- Attending a conference, workshop, seminar or symposium
- Participating in meetings or contract negotiations
- Completing short training courses
Eligible citizens may also take part in art, music, dance, or religious events under the business ETA Sri Lanka.
The ETA for Business allows eligible citizens to spend up to 30 days in the country. It is a multiple–entry travel authorization, and is valid for 180 days from the date of issue.
Like the tourist ETA, it may be obtained through the simple and straightforward Sri Lanka ETA visa online form. When applying, it is necessary to select ‘business’ as the purpose of the stay.
The Sri Lanka Business ETA requirements are mostly the same as those of the ETA for tourism.
Sri Lanka Transit ETA Information
Eligible citizens in transit through Sri Lanka for more than 8 hours need a Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Transit Visa.
The transit ETA for Sri Lanka is a single–entry travel authorization that allows eligible citizens to leave the airport transit lounge and transit through Sri Lanka for up to 2 days.
The Sri Lanka ETA visa online for transit is valid for 180 days from the date of issue and is electronically linked to the applicant’s passport.
Eligible applicants are required to complete a Sri Lanka transit ETA online form if intending to travel through the country for more than 8 hours on their way to another destination, or they will not be able to transit through Sri Lanka.
The Transit ETA requirements are largely the same as those for the online authorization for tourism. It may also be necessary to provide proof of a visa or other travel document for the onward destination, if applicable.
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▾FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Sri Lanka Visa FAQ
What is the Sri Lanka ETA?
The Sri Lanka Tourist ETA is an Electronic Travel Authorization which allows citizens of eligible countries to travel to Sri Lanka for short term stays for touristic purposes. It is sometimes referred to as an online Sri Lanka tourist visa, although technically it is not a visa but a travel authorization.
The Sri Lanka ETA is also available for business travel, or as a transit ETA.
The majority of foreign visitors must apply for an ETA before traveling to Sri Lanka.
How long is the Sri Lanka ETA valid for?
The duration of the ETA for Sri Lanka is 180 days from the date of issue.
The Sri Lanka ETA for tourism is a double-entry travel authorization visa that allows for stays up to 30 days during its validity.
The business eTA allows multiple entries of up to 30 days each.
The Sri Lanka ETA for transit is a single-entry travel authorization. It allows holders to transit through Sri Lanka for up to 2 days.
Who can apply for a Sri Lanka ETA?
Citizens from all ETA-eligible countries can apply for a Sri Lanka ETA online. This includes the majority of foreign countries.
Citizens from all ETA eligible countries are required to apply for a Sri Lanka Transit ETA if their stay in the country exceeds 8 hours. They cannot use the Transit ETA to leave the airport premises.
Who is eligible for a Sri Lanka ETA?
You can find the countries eligible for the ETA by using the visa checker at the top of this page.
The top visitors countries to Sri Lanka are:
- India
- China
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- France
- Australia
- Russian Federation
- United States
- Canada
- Japan
Citizens from the Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore do not require a visa to travel to and enter Sri Lanka
How long can I stay in Sri Lanka?
The ETA Sri Lanka tourist and business visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days in the country.
The transit ETA permits a total stay of 2 days while transiting through Sri Lanka to another destination.
Is the Sri Lankan ETA a single or multiple entry authorization?
The number of entries allowed with the Sri Lanka ETA depends on the purpose of the visit.
The Sri Lanka Tourist ETA is a double-entry travel authorization. This means you can enter the country twice during its 6-month validity. This is not the case for the Business ETA. Holders of a Business ETA can enter Sri Lanka multiple times while their authorization is still valid.
However, an ETA for transit is a single entry authorization and only permits a single entry during its validity.
What ports of entry can be used with the ETA?
The ETA Sri Lanka allows the holder to enter the country through all ports of entry, whether by air or by sea.
What are the restrictions of Sri Lanka ETA for tourism?
The Sri Lanka Tourist ETA is issued for short-term stays for tourism purposes, like sightseeing, visiting friends and family, or participating in sporting events, competitions, or activities related to cultural performance.
With an approved Sri Lanka Tourist ETA it is illegal to work, study, or stay in Sri Lanka for a period exceeding 30 days each visit.
What business activities are allowed under the Business ETA?
The business activities allowed under the Business ETA are:
- Conferences, workshops, seminars and symposiums
- Participation in business meetings or negotiations
- Participation in art, music, dance, or religious events
- Short term training programs (up to 30 days).
Is the ETA Business visa the same as an Investor visa?
No, the ETA business visa for Sri Lanka is different from the investor visa, or Resident Guest Scheme.
The Business ETA allows short-term stays of up to 30 days in the country for specific business activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, seminars, and symposiums.
The Investor Visa allows foreign professionals a long-term stay in Sri Lanka for the purpose of investing in an approved business venture in the country. To qualify for the investor visa, applicants are required to make an initial minimum investment of US $250,000 in a special account in any commercial bank in Sri Lanka.
What are the restrictions of the ETA transit visa for Sri Lanka?
The Sri Lanka Transit ETA allows the traveler a single entry stay of 2 days in the country while transiting to an onward destination.
With an approved Sri Lanka Transit ETA travelers cannot stay in the country for a period exceeding 2 days, it is also illegal to work or to study.
How do I apply for an Sri Lanka ETA Online?
To apply for an ETA for Sri Lanka, eligible citizens are required to complete a simple online application with personal details and passport information.
What do I need to submit an application?
To apply online for an ETA for Sri Lanka, it is necessary to have passport validity of at least 180 days from the intended date of entry from an ETA eligible country. Applicants are also required to pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card, and to provide a current email address to receive the approved ETA Sri Lanka in their inbox.
Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, it is necessary to present a printed copy of the approved Sri Lanka ETA for tourism as well as the passport used during the application. It is also necessary to provide proof of sufficient funds for the stay, and proof of onward travel.
How long will my Sri Lanka ETA take to process?
The ETA for Sri Lanka processing time is from 1-2 business days after the application is submitted.
Applicants will then receive the Sri Lanka ETA approval notice by email.
Applicants for the Sri Lanka ETA online are advised to apply in good time before the intended date of entry in the country just in case of the rare event of unexpected delays.
How will I receive my approved ETA?
Once approved, a copy of the Sri Lanka ETA is sent to the email address provided during the application.
Do I need an Sri Lanka ETA for all my children? Should I include them on my application?
Minors under the age of 16, included in their parent or guardian’s passport, can be included in their parent or guardian’s application. Children do not need an individual ETA as long as their details are also included in the adult’s ETA.
Minors over the age of 16, or those who already have their own passport, must apply for an ETA.
What can I do if I make a mistake in my application?
It is essential to double-check all the information provided on the Sri Lanka ETA for tourism form before submitting the online application form. If the details on the ETA visa do not match the passport or travel document used during the application, it may result in delays when boarding the aircraft or in the holder being refused entry into Sri Lanka.
Should there be a mistake on the application after its submission, applicants are required to complete and submit a new Sri Lanka ETA for tourism application form.
How much does the Sri Lanka ETA visa cost?
The Sri Lanka ETA application fee may vary depending on the type of ETA applied for and the traveler’s nationality.
During the application process, the relevant price will be given and you will be prompted to enter your card details at the appropriate time.
Do I need to print a copy of the Sri Lanka tourist ETA?
Applicants are advised to print at least 1 copy of the tourist, business, or transit ETA for Sri Lanka to present to border authorities upon arrival in the country. Travelers are also advised to keep a copy of the Sri Lanka ETA for tourism, business, or transit with them at all times throughout their stay.
Once granted, can I cancel my tourist ETA for Sri Lanka?
Once the ETA for Sri Lanka has been submitted and approved, the applicant will continue to hold an approved ETA.
Do I need travel or health insurance to be granted a Sri Lanka ETA?
Medical insurance is not an obligatory requirement to apply for an ETA for Sri Lanka.
Citizens of the following countries must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate at the port of entry to Sri Lanka to comply with International health Regulations:
- Angola
- Argentina
- Benin
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Ethiopia
- Gabon
- French Guiana
- Gambia
- Guinea
- Equatorial Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Niger
- Panama
- Peru
- Rwanda
- Sudan
- Sierra Leone
- Senegal
- Somalia
- Suriname
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Togo
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Venezuela
How can I check or verify the status of my application?
Travelers who applied through this website can check visa status for the ETA for Sri Lanka by logging into their OVManager account.
Once in Sri Lanka, can I apply for the ETA?
No, travelers eligible for the Sri Lanka tourist ETA are required to obtain travel authorization before traveling to the country.
What happens if I do not receive my Sri Lanka ETA approval notice?
Once applicants submit their tourist ETA Sri Lanka application, they will receive a confirmation email. Applicants who do not receive this message in their main inbox are advised to first check their Junk or Spam mailbox.
Can I obtain a tourist visa on arrival?
Travelers with a valid ETA will be given a Sri Lanka tourist visa on arrival immediately at border control, once they show their passport, return ticket, and proof of funds to support themselves during their trip. In this case, the Sri Lanka visa on arrival is essentially the final approval of entry.
Having the ETA in advance streamlines the process, allowing visitors to get their visa on arrival for Sri Lanka instantly when they arrive. It eliminates the need to wait in extra lines to fill out an application, as was the case before the ETA was introduced.
Can I apply for my ETA transit visa on arrival to Sri Lanka?
A Sri Lanka Transit visa on arrival is only available to travelers arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. However, there is a Sri Lanka ETA Transit On arrival service fee of $5, as opposed to the free online application.
Is it possible to extend my Sri Lanka transit eVisa?
The Sri Lanka ETA for transit cannot be extended. It is only valid for a 2-day stay in the country while transiting to an onward destination. Eligible citizens who wish to remain in the country for a period exceeding the 2-day stay, should apply for a Sri Lanka ETA for tourism or business before traveling, or for a visa on arrival once in Sri Lanka.
Do I need a letter of invitation to obtain a Sri Lanka Business ETA?
An invitation letter will not be necessary to complete the application process. However, the applicant will be required to provide information regarding their current employer and the company the applicant will be visiting in Sri lanka.
Is it possible to extend my Sri Lanka ETA?
It is possible to extend Sri Lanka Tourist and Business ETAs, although the process is more complicated than simply leaving the country briefly and reapplying online for a new ETA.
An application must be submitted to the Visa Section of the Department of Immigration in Sri Lanka before the initial ETA authorization expires.
For most visitors, it is easier to leave Sri Lanka for a couple of days, get a new ETA online, and then return.
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