Whether you are planning a vacation in the beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka or not, it is in your best interests to know as much as you can about Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan people. It is important to understand the aspects of visa requirements to ensure an easy travel. This complete guide to Sri Lanka tourist visas explains how to get it, requirements, application procedures, fees structure and other related information which should make your journey easy and complication free.
What is a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa?
A Sri Lanka tourist visa is an official document that gives foreign nationality access to travel into Sri Lanka in order to enjoy a leisure or visit friends and relatives. Through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), you can easily apply and receive a SriLankan visa, and most of them are completed within a few minutes online.
Types of Sri Lanka Tourist Visas
1. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
The ETA is the most widespread and convenient method of getting the Sri Lanka tourist visa. This is an electronic system that enables travellers to submit their applications remotely (online) and their status is approved electronically as well.
Key Features:
- Valid thirty days after arrival
- The possibility of a double entry was enabled
- It can extend to up to 6 months at Sri Lanka
- Processing period: In most cases 24 hours or less
2. Visa on arrival
There is no visa on arrival seriously advise you to get the ETA online at Bandaranaike international airport (BIFA) only in a few cases of nationality like Japanese, South Koreans and Singaporeans
3. Embassy/Consulate Visa
Old-fashioned visa procedures in Sri-Lankan embassies or consulates throughout the world, which are usually necessary in case of longer stay or exceptional situations.
Sri Lanka Visa Requirements
Documents Required:
- Valid passport at least 6 months of validity as of date of arrival
- Filled ETA online application form
- Current passport sized photo (digital image with online applications)
- Evidence of onward /return tickets
- Advance payment receipts (receipts of credit card payments or bank statement on the demonstration of the necessary funds)
- Hotel reservations or invitation letter by the host
Additional Requirements:
- Travel insurance (not recommended)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (in case of arrival in the infected regions)
- COVID-19 vaccination certificate (see the current requirements)
How to Apply for Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Online
Step-by-Step Application Process:
1. Visit the Official ETA Website
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- Go to www.eta.gov.lk (official government website)
- Avoid third-party websites that charge additional fees
2. Select Application Type
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- Choose "Tourist ETA" for tourism purposes
- Select your nationality from the dropdown menu
3. Fill Application Form
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- Enter personal details exactly as shown in passport
- Provide travel information including arrival date
- Upload required documents
4. Make Payment
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- Pay the visa fee using credit/debit card
- Keep payment confirmation receipt
5. Receive ETA Approval
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- Check email for ETA approval (usually within 24 hours)
- Print the ETA approval to carry during travel
Sri Lanka Visa Fees and Processing Time
Current Visa Fees (2025):
- Tourist ETA (30 days): USD 50
- Transit ETA: USD 25
- Business ETA: USD 100
Processing Time:
- Online ETA: 24-72 hours (usually within 24 hours)
- Urgent processing: Available for additional fees
- Embassy applications: 5-10 working days
Note: Fees may vary and are subject to change. Always check the official website for current rates.
Countries Eligible for Sri Lanka Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the following countries can enter Sri Lanka without a visa for specified periods:
- Maldives: 30 days
- Singapore: 30 days
- Seychelles: 30 days
All other nationalities require a visa or ETA to enter Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Visa Extension
In the event that you want to stay longer in Sri Lanka other than the first 30 days:
Extension Process:
- Step in the Immigration and Emigration office at Colombo
- Application of extension with appropriate documents
- Addition hand fee
- Obtain long term visa stamp
Extension Fees:
- 3-6 months extension: USD 35
- 6 months extension: USD 70
- An extra fee can be incurred in processing
Important Travel Tips for Sri Lanka
Entry Requirements:
- Passport should have minimum 6 months validity to arrival
- ETA should be printed and forwarded to the immigration
- Carry documentation of continuing travel and lodging
Health And Safety:
- Ensure that current COVID-19 travel restriction measures are pasted
- shop travel insurance coverage
- Travels vaccines prescription: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid
Money and Finance:
- Local currency:Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- It is estimated that traveling mid-range will cost you USD 30-50 a day
- Major cities and tourist places receiving credit cards
Common Sri Lanka Visa Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Passport Information: Double-check all passport details match exactly
- Expired Passport: Ensure passport validity of at least 6 months
- Wrong Visa Type: Select tourist ETA for tourism purposes
- Incomplete Application: Fill all required fields accurately
- Poor Quality Photos: Upload clear, recent passport-size photographs
- Last-Minute Applications: Apply at least one week before travel
Sri Lanka Visa Rejection Reasons
- Frequent causes of rejection of visas are:
- Inconsistent/ incorrect application information
- Lack of funds papers
- Expired or fake passport
- Past offenses of immigration
- Non existence of travel insurance (where necessary)
- Suspicious movement pattern
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival?
Although there is a minimal amount of visa on arrival, it is greatly advised that you avail of an ETA online prior to any journeys to avoid inconveniences and the risk of being denied journey.
What is the duration of Sri Lanka tourist visa?
The general tourist ETA has a 30 days validity after the day of arrival and can be used twice during the validity period.
Can I get a job in Sri Lanka when I am on a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas are not work allowed. To work as a professional activity, you require a work visa or a business visa.
What happens in case my application to be granted the Sri Lanka visa fails?
Alternatively, you may take another application after considering the reasons of rejection or turn to the closest embassy of Sri Lanka and ask them to help.
Are separate visas required in Sri Lanka by children?
Yes, all visitors including infants and children must have their separate ETAs to be allowed entrance into Sri Lanka.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but timing depends on the region:
- West and South Coast: December to March (dry season)
- East Coast: April to September
- Hill Country: January to March, July to September
- Cultural Triangle: February to September
Top Tourist Destinations in Sri Lanka
- Colombo: Capital city with colonial architecture and modern attractions
- Kandy: UNESCO World Heritage site with Temple of the Tooth
- Galle: Historic fort city on the southern coast
- Sigiriya: Ancient rock fortress and UNESCO site
- Ella: Hill country town with stunning landscapes
- Yala National Park: Premier wildlife sanctuary
- Mirissa: Beach town famous for whale watching
Conclusion
Most persons find it convenient and simple to obtain the Sri Lanka tourist visa under ETA. Paying attention to this detailed guide, you will be able to make the process of application very smooth and concentrate on building the plan of your unbelievable journey to Sri Lanka. Try not to forget to apply your ETA way before your travel dates and bring all the important paper works before you get into this island paradise without any trouble.
Sri Lanka is waiting to explore its rich culture, beautiful sceneries, delicious food and kind hospitality. You have the right visa docs and can head to see a plethora of sights starting with ancient temples and wildlife safaris all the way to the clean beaches and tea plantations.
Temporary changes in immigration policies and procedures can occur, always confirm the mechanism and the current visa requirements and service fees on the official Sri Lankan government site before traveling.