Sri Lanka Visa Info

Sri Lanka Visa Info

Sri Lanka Visa Info: If you plan to visit Sri Lanka in 2026, you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This is required for all short-term visitors, including tourists, business travelers, and people passing through. Even though rules have been updated, you must get an approved ETA before you travel. Most travelers pay the standard online fee; however, citizens of a few countries have exemptions. You must apply through the official website (eta.gov.lk) at least three days before your trip.

For more detailed guidance, this Sri Lanka Visa Info also reminds you that besides the ETA, you need a valid passport and must complete the free Online Arrival Card. It is recommended to have a confirmed return or onward ticket and check that your passport has at least six months’ validity. Following these steps ensures smooth, hassle-free entry, prevents delays at immigration, and lets you begin your trip worry-free.

(Sri Lanka’s ETA & Visa Requirements)

This Sri Lanka Visa Info guide covers all important details:

• Requirement: An ETA is required for tourism, business, or transit.
• 40 Countries Scheme: A fee-free ETA for 40 countries was announced for January 2026, but it is not yet officially approved by the government.
• Active Free Visas: Right now, only citizens of 7 countries—China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand—can get a $0 ETA.
• Standard Fees: Travelers from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries must pay the normal ETA fee:

• $50 USD for an online application
• $60 USD for on-arrival ETA

What You Should Do:

• Check the Official Portal: Always use eta.gov.lk. If your country qualifies for a fee waiver, the payment section will show $0.
• Assume the Fee Applies: Until confirmed, budget for the $50 fee to avoid delays at the airport.
• Mandatory ETA: All visitors (except citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles) must have an approved ETA before arrival.
• Digital Arrival Card: Complete the Online Arrival Card within 3 days of your flight; this is a separate, free requirement.
• Validity: A standard tourist ETA lasts 30 days and usually allows two entries.
• Processing Time: Most online ETAs are approved within 24 hours, but it is recommended to apply at least 3 days before travel.

How to Apply

This Sri Lanka Visa Info recommends:

• Online application: Apply only via the official Sri Lanka ETA Portal (eta.gov.lk).
• On Arrival: While you can obtain an ETA at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), it is more expensive (approx. $60 USD) and can result in long wait times. Pre-applying online is strongly recommended.

Extending Your Stay in Sri Lanka (Visa Extension Info)

Sri Lanka allows tourists to extend their stay for up to a maximum of 270 days (roughly 9 months).

• Process: Extensions can be requested online through the Immigration eServices Portal or in person at the Department of Immigration head office in Battaramulla, Colombo.
• Stages: Extensions are usually granted in blocks of 60 or 90 days following your initial 30-day stay.

Entry Requirements Checklist (Sri Lanka Immigration)

Before you fly, ensure you have the following ready for immigration:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
• ETA Approval: A printed or digital copy of your ETA approval notice.
• Onward Travel: A confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
• Digital Arrival Card: Complete the free Online Arrival Card within 3 days of your arrival to speed up your entry.

This complete Sri Lanka Visa Info guide ensures travelers are prepared, avoid delays, and enjoy a smooth, worry-free visit. It is a reliable source of Sri Lanka Visa Info for planning your visit.

Pro-Tip: Make sure to save or screenshot the QR code from the Digital Arrival Card, as the airport’s free Wi-Fi can be unreliable for retrieving it upon landing.