Do I Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes — almost every foreign visitor needs a Sri Lanka visa. Citizens of Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles enjoy visa-free entry; everyone else applies for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel or, less conveniently, on arrival.
The Sri Lanka ETA Explained
- Type: Short-visit tourist visa (double entry)
- Duration: Up to 30 days from arrival
- Where to apply: Official portal — eta.gov.lk
- Delivery: By email, usually within 24 hours
- Format: Digital approval — print a copy for the airline check-in
Visa Cost (2026)
| Nationality Group | Online ETA | On Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, most others | ~USD 50 | ~USD 60 |
| SAARC countries (India, Pakistan, etc.) | ~USD 20 | ~USD 25 |
| Children under 12 | Free | Free |
Fees change periodically — always confirm on the official portal before paying.
How to Apply Online — Step by Step
- Go to the official Sri Lanka ETA portal (eta.gov.lk). Beware unofficial copycat sites charging inflated fees.
- Choose “Apply for an Individual” or “Group”.
- Fill in passport details, arrival date and Sri Lanka accommodation address (your first hotel).
- Pay by credit or debit card.
- Wait for the approval email — typically within a few hours to 24 hours.
- Print and carry the approval letter for airline check-in and immigration.
Requirements
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date
- At least 2 blank pages in your passport
- Proof of onward travel (return ticket)
- First hotel/accommodation address
- Sufficient funds for your stay (rarely checked, but required)
Visa on Arrival at Colombo Airport
Available but not recommended. Expect long queues after long-haul flights and a slightly higher fee. Applying online for the ETA in advance is faster, cheaper and reassures the airline you can board.
Extending Your Sri Lanka Visa
The 30-day tourist visa can be extended twice at the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Battaramulla, Colombo — up to a total of 6 months. Bring your passport, ETA approval, return ticket, proof of funds and the extension fee (approximately USD 100 for the first extension).
Sri Lanka Visa by Country
Sri Lanka Visa for British Citizens (UK)
British passport holders apply for the standard 30-day ETA (~USD 50). No embassy appointment or paperwork beyond the online form is required. Passports must be valid 6+ months beyond entry.
Sri Lanka Visa for US Citizens
US citizens use the same ETA process — 30 days, double entry, ~USD 50.
Sri Lanka Visa for EU / Schengen Citizens
German, French, Dutch, Italian, Spanish and other EU citizens all use the ETA at the standard rate.
Sri Lanka Visa for Indian Citizens
Indian citizens qualify for the discounted SAARC rate (~USD 20 online).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sri Lanka currently visa-free?
Sri Lanka has run short pilot programmes offering free ETAs to select markets. As of 2026, the standard paid ETA applies to most visitors — check eta.gov.lk for the current policy.
Can I enter Sri Lanka twice on one ETA?
Yes — the standard tourist ETA is double entry, valid for two arrivals within the 30-day window (useful for Maldives side-trips).
What if my ETA is denied?
Denials are rare for tourists. If it happens, apply for a paper visa through your nearest Sri Lankan embassy or high commission.
Popular Tour Packages For ETA Visitors
- 7-Day Sri Lanka Highlights Tour — fits comfortably inside the 30-day ETA.
- 10-Day Sri Lanka Private Tour — culture, wildlife and beaches with room for extensions.
- 7-Day Private Tour with Guide, Hotels & Food — fully inclusive itinerary.
Visa sorted? Now plan the trip.
Explore our private tour packages or let our team design a bespoke itinerary.
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