Do You Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?

Most visitors to Sri Lanka require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival for short stays (tourism or business). From 15 October 2025 the ETA must be approved before boarding your flight. ETA-on-arrival is no longer available.

The ETA is valid for 30 days from the date of entry and allows double entry during this period. Some nationalities are exempt—check the official ETA website for the latest details.

Types of Visas

• Tourist ETA – For leisure, sightseeing, cultural travel, or visiting friends and family. Typically valid for 30 days.
• Business ETA – For conferences, meetings, or short-term business activities (note: long-stay/business work visas must be arranged through the Department of Immigration & Emigration).
• Transit Visa – For travelers connecting through Sri Lanka, valid for stays under 48 hours.

How to Apply

1. Apply online via the official Sri Lanka ETA portal.
2. Complete the form with passport and travel details.
3. Pay the applicable fee online. (Some nationalities may be eligible for a fee waiver for tourism, see details below.)
4. Receive ETA approval via email (usually within 24 hours). Do not travel until your ETA is approved — airlines may refuse boarding without it.

Tip: Apply at least 1–2 weeks before travel. Keep a printed and an electronic copy of your ETA and arrival card during travel.

Arrival Card

In addition to your ETA, travelers must complete an Arrival Card. This can be filled out online up to 3 days before arrival, saving time at the airport.

Visa Requirements

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
• Proof of return ticket or onward travel.
• Proof of accommodation or confirmed travel itinerary.
• Sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.

Visa Fees & Fee-Waiver Information

Fees for ETAs vary by nationality and visa type. Important clarifications from the Department of Immigration & Emigration:

• Certain passport holders are exempt from ETA fees for tourism — for example: Seychelles, Maldives, Singapore (fee exemption for tourism purposes).
• Other nationalities have been granted fee waivers for tourism purposes — examples include China, India, Russia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan. These waivers typically apply to the cost of the ETA but do not remove the requirement to apply in advance.
• Business ETA applicants generally pay the stipulated fee irrespective of nationality.

Visa costs depend on nationality. As a general guide:

• Tourist ETA: approx. USD 50
• Business ETA: approx. USD 55
• Transit ETA: Free (for stays under 48 hours)
• Children under 12: No charge

Note: Fees and conditions are subject to government updates. Always check the official ETA site before applying.

Visa Conditions & Restrictions

Tourist visas are granted for leisure travel only. They do not permit work, employment, or long-term residency. Overstaying your visa may result in fines, deportation, or restrictions on future travel.

Visa Extensions

If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension (up to 90 days) at the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo.

Note that Business visas currently cannot be extended online and may require a physical application.

Transit Visitors

If your connecting stop in Sri Lanka is longer than 24 hours, you will usually require a transit ETA (valid for 48 hours). Confirm the requirement and process for your nationality on the official ETA portal.

Helpful Travel Tips

• Apply for your ETA well in advance (we recommend at least 7–14 days before travel to avoid last-minute issues).
• Make sure all personal details match your passport exactly (spellings, name order, passport number, expiry date).
• Ensure your passport has blank pages for entry stamps.
• Airlines may require proof of an approved ETA at check-in and can deny boarding without it — double check with your carrier.
• Keep both digital and printed copies of your ETA and arrival card.
• Always check for the latest updates before you travel, as visa rules may change.