All destinations are open. No self-isolation is required. Here are key points of the new guidelines: Visa fees and our processing fees are revised from 01/12/2022 onwards. Transit visa for all nationalities is free of charge. Children under 11 years of age will be free of charge. Removal of COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement. Withdrawal of PCR/RAT test requirement for on arrival or Pre-Boarding.
All destinations are open. No self-isolation is required. Here are key points of the new guidelines: Visa fees and our processing fees are revised from 01/12/2022 onwards. Transit visa for all nationalities is free of charge. Children under 11 years of age will be free of charge. Removal of COVID-19 vaccination certificate requirement. Withdrawal of PCR/RAT test requirement for on arrival or Pre-Boarding.
Sri Lanka Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Assistance System
The Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official online Sri Lanka eVisa issued by the Sri Lankan Government for short-term travel to Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka ETA system was introduced to simplify the Sri Lanka visa application process, allowing eligible travelers to apply for a Sri Lanka tourist visa, business visa, or transit visa entirely online without visiting an embassy or consulate. This convenient online visa system helps travelers obtain travel authorization quickly and securely before entering Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lanka eVisa is commonly issued for tourism, business meetings, conferences, and short transit stays. Depending on the approved visa type, the Sri Lanka ETA is generally valid for stays of up to 30 days and may be granted on a double-entry or multiple-entry basis. Applicants can easily complete the online Sri Lanka visa application by submitting passport details, travel information, and paying the visa fees through a secure online payment gateway.
This Sri Lanka ETA portal provides a secure and reliable platform for processing Sri Lanka online visa applications. Travelers can apply personally through the online system or obtain assistance from authorized visa agencies, embassies, or consulates for a smooth and hassle-free application experience.
What is Sri Lanka ETA
The Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is mandatory for foreign nationals traveling to Sri Lanka for short-term visits. Managed by the Sri Lanka Immigration Department, the ETA is issued for tourism, business, or transit purposes and can be applied on behalf through online ETA Application assistance system.
Types of Sri Lanka ETA Visas:
Sri Lanka Tourist Visa – For sightseeing, holidaying, visiting friends and relatives, or medical treatment.
Sri Lanka Business Visa – For attending business meetings, conferences, and other professional engagements.
Sri Lanka Transit Visa – For travellers passing through Sri Lanka en route to another destination.
For more information about the Sri Lanka ETA, all policies, apply processes, and immigration assistance details, please visit information page.
Sri Lanka offers various types of ETA visas to cater to different travel purposes. These include the Tourist ETA for leisure and sightseeing, the Business ETA for professional engagements, the Transit ETA for short layovers. Each visa type is designed to meet specific travel needs efficiently.
Sri Lanka Tourist Visa
A visitor planning for a short-term stay to Sri Lanka for the following purposes must obtain prior approval.
Sightseeing, holidaying
Visiting friends and relatives
Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and yoga
Participation in sporting events, competitions and cultural performances
Visa on Arrival: Currently, Sri Lanka ETA can available on arrival at the airport. However, certain travellers should be applied for online before your arrival under specific conditions. Check the official Sri Lanka Immigration website or contact us.
Nationals from African region such as Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Ghana planning to apply for E Visa should physically apply through Embassy of Sri Lanka/Consulate/Dept. of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka.
From September 27, 2024, the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration has resumed issuing the Sri Lanka ETA Visa online. All foreign nationals are now eligible to apply for the Sri Lanka eVisa online or obtain a visa on arrival, making travel to Sri Lanka more accessible.
Yellow Fever Vaccine Requirement for Sri Lanka Visa
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? If you're traveling from a Yellow Fever endemic country, you must present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to enter Sri Lanka. Failure to comply may result in denied entry.
Who Needs a Yellow Fever Vaccination for Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination if you are arriving from or have transited through (for more than 12 hours) any of the following countries:
South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela.
Key Requirements for Yellow Fever Certificate
Must be issued by an approved vaccination center
Must be administered at least 10 days before arrival in Sri Lanka
Valid for life (as per WHO guidelines)
Exemptions: Infants under 9 months old and travelers with medical contraindications (must provide documentation).
Avoid Visa & Entry Issues
Sri Lankan immigration strictly enforces this rule. If you're unsure whether your itinerary requires the vaccine, check with your nearest Sri Lankan embassy or visa agency before travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Sri Lanka visa?
A Sri Lanka visa is an official document issued by the Sri Lankan government that allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in the country for a specified period. It is typically endorsed on your passport and outlines the conditions of your stay.
What types of visas are available for Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka offers the following types of visas:
Tourist Visa: For leisure, sightseeing, visiting family or friends, and medical purposes.
Business Visa: For attending meetings, conferences, or short-term professional activities.
Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Sri Lanka to another destination.
Select the type of visa you require (Tourist, Business, or Transit).
Fill out the online application form with your personal and travel details.
Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
Receive your ETA approval via email within 24-48 hours.
How long is a Sri Lanka tourist visa valid?
A Sri Lanka tourist visa is typically valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. It can be extended for up to six months, depending on your travel plans.
Is a visa required for Sri Lanka?
Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. However, Indian citizens can avail of a visa-free entry until March 31, 2024, under a pilot project. Check the official website for updates.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?
Yes, Indian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival by first applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online. Upon arrival, they will receive a 30-day tourist or business visa or a 2-day transit visa.
Is the Sri Lanka ETA valid for US citizens?
Yes, US citizens can apply for a Sri Lanka ETA, which allows stays of up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes. The ETA is not valid for employment or long-term residence.
How can I check my Sri Lanka ETA application status?
You can check your ETA application status online by visiting the Status Check page and entering your passport number and application reference number.
What documents are required for a Sri Lanka visa?
A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
A completed visa application form.
Proof of travel arrangements (flight tickets).
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings).
Payment of the visa fee.
Can I extend my Sri Lanka visa?
Yes, a Sri Lanka tourist visa can be extended for up to six months. You must visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo to apply for an extension.
How long does it take to process a Sri Lanka ETA?
The Sri Lanka ETA is usually processed within 24-48 hours. However, it is recommended to apply at least a few days before your travel date to avoid any delays.
The Sri Lanka Immigration Department allows travelers to extend their stay beyond the initial visa validity period. Tourist visas can typically be extended for up to 6 months.
Eligibility for Visa Extension
Foreign travelers staying in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days may be eligible to apply for a visa extension:
First Extension: Up to 60 days
Second Extension: Up to 90 days
Third Extension: Up to 90 days
Maximum stay: 270 days from the date of first arrival in Sri Lanka.
How to Apply for a Visa Extension
In-Person: Visit the Visa Section of the Sri Lanka Immigration Department.
Authorized Agencies: Proceed through any authorized agency if you cannot use the above methods.
Important: Visa extensions cannot be applied through this portal. Use the official Immigration Extension Portal or visit the Immigration Department in person.
Key Points to Remember
Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of application.
Carry original passport, visa, and proof of purpose of stay.
Apply well in advance of your current visa expiration date.