When planning a trip to the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” the first essential task is understanding the Sri Lanka visa requirements. As an international traveler, regulations can vary significantly based on your nationality. This article will offer you comprehensive guidance on choosing the best Sri Lanka entry option to have a memorable adventure in this island nation.
Is there any Sri Lanka visa-free regulation?
Yes. Citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles are completely exempt from the requirement of obtaining an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). They can enter Sri Lanka simply by presenting a valid passport. For nationals of other countries, a valid entry permit (ETA) is required to visit Sri Lanka.
Types of visas for entry into Sri Lanka
The “Free Visa” scheme to Sri Lanka (Free ETA)
This is a special scheme currently implemented for nationals of 07 specific countries: China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. Under this scheme, travelers from these countries are granted a visa to Sri Lanka free of charge.
Validity: 30 days from the date of arrival.
Entry: Double entry facility is permitted within the 30 days.
Requirement: Even though it is free, you still need to obtain an ETA (either online before travel or on arrival).
Standard Tourist ETA
For travelers not on the exemption or free visa list (such as citizens of the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and EU countries), the Standard Tourist ETA is the primary entry permit. It is issued by Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration.
Validity: 30 days initially.
Entry: Double entry within 30 days.
Application: Through the official website or at the on-arrival counter at the Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo) and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport.
Fee: Processing fees apply
ETA Approval for entry into Sri Lanka
How to get a visa for entry into Sri Lanka?
How to get a Sri Lanka ETA yourself online?
This is the most recommended method for both “Free Visa” nationals and “Standard” tourists to save time at the airport.
What to prepare for a Sri Lanka ETA?
To submit a valid online application, ensure you have:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival with one blank visa page
- A valid email address to receive the approval
- Apply within 90 days before arrival in Sri Lanka
- Hold proof of sufficient funds
- Hold proof of onward/return flights
- Hold all documents required for the next destination
- A credit/debit card (Visa, Master, Amex) to pay the fee (if you are not from the 7 free-visa countries).
How to apply for a Sri Lanka ETA?
- Step 1: Visit the official website www.eta.gov.lk. Click on the “Apply” tab.
- Step 2: Fill in the application form with your personal details and travel information.
- Step 3: Review your information.
- Step 4: Payment. For standard tourists, pay approx. 50 USD depending on nationality. For Free Visa nationals, the system will detect your nationality and waive the fee.
- Step 5: Receive the ETA Approval Notice via email.
How long does it take to process the ETA?
The online ETA is usually processed within 24 hours, often much sooner. However, it is safe to apply at least 3-5 days before your trip.
The official Sri Lanka ETA website
How to get Sri Lanka Visa on Arrival?
What to prepare for a Sri Lanka ETA on Arrival ?
- A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival with one blank visa page
- A valid email address to receive the approval.
- Apply within 90 days before arrival in Sri Lanka
- Hold proof of sufficient funds
- Hold proof of onward/return flights
- Hold all documents required for the next destination
- Cash (USD) for the visa fee
How to apply for the ETA Visa on Arrival?
- Step 1: Upon arrival at the airport, proceed to the Immigration desks.
- Step 2: Fill out the arrival form.
- Step 3: Present your documents. For Free Visa nationals, the officer will issue the visa. For standard tourists, pay the On-Arrival fee (usually higher than the online rate, approx. 60 USD).
- Step 4: Proceed to Immigration Control for passport clearance.
Visa on Arrival Counter at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo
How to get a Visa via Sri Lanka Overseas Missions (Embassy)?
This method is reserved for specific cases, such as travelers who cannot use the online system or need a visa for longer than 30 days initially.
Where to apply?
You must visit the nearest Sri Lankan High Commission, Embassy, or Consulate in your country of residence.
What to prepare for a Sri Lanka visa issued at the mission?
- Completed Visa Application Form as required specifically and differently by each mission
- Passport valid for at least 6 months with unused pages
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (within 3 months)
- Copy of air ticket
- Proof of hotel booking or invitation letter
How long does it take?
The processing time varies by mission but typically takes 3 to 5 business days. You will receive a physical visa sticker/stamp in your passport.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka, Washington D.C., USA
How to extend your visa in Sri Lanka?
If you wish to stay longer than the initial 30 days in Sri Lanka, you must apply for an extension.
Where to apply for Sri Lanka visa extension?
You must apply in person at the Department of Immigration and Emigration (Head Office) located in Battaramulla, Colombo. Or you can apply through the official e-Services portal eservices.immigration.gov.lk/vs/login.php
What are the requirements to get Sri Lanka visa extended?
- Your passport must be valid for at least 2 months beyond your intended extended stay.
- Return air ticket as a proof that you intend to leave after the extension.
- Proof of accommodation: Address and phone number of your hotel/stay.
- A recent passport-sized photo of the applicant.
- Application Form: Required if applying in-person
- For In-Person applicants: It is compulsory for the applicant to be physically present to submit the application and collect the visa at the Head Office.
What are crucial conditions & rules for Sri Lanka visa extension?
- Children under 12 years must also extend their visa and pay the appropriate fee if staying more than 30 days.
- The double-entry facility is only available during the first 30 days of your initial arrival.
- If you apply for or obtain an extension within that first 30-day period, your remaining double-entry facility is automatically cancelled.
- Extensions of tourist visas obtained by paying the fee will be automatically cancelled upon departure. You cannot leave and re-enter on the same extended visa.
- Attempting to submit an application online is not an excuse to avoid fines if your visa expires.
- If the online system fails or you receive no response, you must visit the Head Office within 3 working days with your passport and photo to avoid overstay penalties.
Sri Lanka Visa Extension Stamp
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the “Free Visa Sri Lanka” for countries like India and China the same as “Visa-Exemption” entry?
No, they are different. “Visa-Exemption” (like for Singaporeans) means no paperwork is needed. The “Free Visa” scheme (for China, India, etc.) means the visa fee is waived, but you must still apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before travel or on arrival.
Can I leave Sri Lanka and come back with my tourist visa?
Yes, the standard Tourist ETA allows Double Entry within 30 days from your initial arrival. However, be careful: if you extend your visa within that first month, the double-entry facility is automatically cancelled, and your visa becomes Single Entry.
Do children need a separate visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes. All children, regardless of age, require their own visa/ETA. For children under 12 years old, the ETA is often free of charge (depending on nationality), but the application must still be submitted. If extending the stay beyond 30 days, fees apply for children too.
How far in advance should I apply for the Sri Lanka ETA?
You should apply within 90 days of your intended arrival. While approvals are fast (often within 24 hours), we recommend applying at least 3-7 days before your flight to account for any system maintenance or “pending” status reviews.
What should I do if the official ETA website is not working?
First, try a different browser or clear your cache. If issues persist, you can apply for the visa On Arrival at the airport (counters are operational) or visit the nearest Sri Lanka Overseas Mission if you have time.
Final thoughts
Traveling to Sri Lanka is an exciting prospect, but ensuring your paperwork is in order is key to a relaxing start. Whether you qualify for the Free Visa scheme or need a Standard ETA, applying online is always the most convenient option.
If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, Travel Sense Asia would be delighted to create a customized itinerary and make your journey unforgettable. Simply share your preferences with us here, and we will take care of the rest.
