What is ETA Approval Note?
ETA is s for short term visit for tourism, business or transit visitor activities such as attending a conference, making business enquiries, or for contractual negotiations.
The ETA is assisted through an on-line system. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required. There is no other requirement to stamp the ETA on the passport.
Upon arrival, produce your passport to the immigration officer at the port of entry to obtain the necessary clearance. It is recommended for you to show a copy of the ETA approval Note which is recieved by email along with you.
An ETA is not a work visa. If you would like to work in Sri Lanka you can use visit Immigration Department for a visa that is suitable for you
Short Visit to Sri Lanka
An Tourist visiting for a short term stay for below listed purposes, may obtain ETA approval note before their arrival.
Visit Category: Tourist Visa
- Sightseeing, holidaying
- Visiting friends and relatives
- Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and yoga
- Participate in sporting events, competitions and activities relating to cultural performance
Visit Category: Business Visa
- Participate in business meetings and negotiations
- Participate in Conferences, workshops and seminars
- To take part in Short term training programs (less than one month)
- Participate in Music, Art and Dance Cultural Events
- Attending in Religious activities
- Participate in Conference Meeting
Visit Category: Transit Visa
- Transiting through Sri Lanka
The types of Visa Validity
- ETA for Tourist purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
- ETA for Business purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
- ETA Transit valid upto to 02 days on Free of Charge basis but processing chrages applicable (Documentary proof needed)
At the arrival applicant may be granted 30 days ETA with double entry facility and double entries can be made from the date of initial arrival (Within given 30 days).Second entry is permitted to stay upto 30 days if it travelling within 30 days from the date of first visit.
Conditions of an ETA are:
- It is your responsibility to know what your visa allows you to do while in Sri Lanka.
- After your ETA is granted you are able to enter and leave Sri Lanka as twice time during one month period from first arrival.
- You can stay in Sri Lanka for a maximum of 1 Month and extension upto 6 months.
- You must not have any criminal convictions for which you have been sentenced for a total combined period of 12 months or more, whether or not you served the sentence's.
- It is illegal to work on an ETA. Whilst on an ETA you have no right to work in Sri Lanka. Business ETA holder are allowed to attend such as the undertaking of business enquiries and contractual negotiations or attending conferences.
If you would like more information on an ETA, you can view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or visit the Department's website.
