Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?

Yes, you will need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. In addition, if you intend visiting Sri Lanka on a short visit,you will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to arrival.

What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) ?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka and is issued through an on-line system. You need to obtain an ETA if you intend visiting Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain the ETA. ETA holders will be issued a 30 day Short Visit visa at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

Am I required to obtain an ETA?

Nationals of all countries with the exception of citizens of countries mentioned below are required to obtain an ETA to visit Sri Lanka.

Nationals of following countries who visit Sri Lanka for a Short visit up to 30 days are exempt from obtaining an ETA;

(i) The Republic of Singapore
(ii) The Republic of Maldives
(iii) The Republic of Seychelles

How much does the ETA cost?

The non-refundable ETA processing fee for a Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days for citizens of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries will cost US$ 15, all other countries will cost US$ 30. Children below 12 years of age are exempt from the ETA fee.

A complete list of ETA processing fees could be obtained from the ETA website.

How do I apply for the ETA?

You can submit the ETA application online through the ETA website. Select the language, click ‘Apply’ and follow the instructions.
Other options for you to apply are;

(i) By Third party
(ii) By Registered agents
(iii) At Sri Lanka Overseas Missions
(iv) At the head office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DI&E), Colombo
(v) On arrival at the port of entry in Sri Lanka

Answers to FAQ’s on the ETA can be found at the official web site,

My holiday is over 30 days, how can I obtain an extension to my visa?

You can either apply and obtain an extended visa from a Sri Lankan Embassy/ Consulate from your country of residence prior to arrival in Sri Lanka or get an extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo 10. This procedure will take about 2-3 hours, and you will have to give a bona fide reason for staying over 30 days. If you are staying in a resort for a long period, the staff will be able to help you with the application.