Sri Lanka Visa Guide 2026: How to Get Your ETA in 5 Simple Steps (Complete Requirements)

Planning your dream trip to Sri Lanka? Before you book those flights and pack your bags, there’s one essential step you need to complete: securing your Sri Lanka tourist visa.

The good news? Getting a Sri Lanka visa is one of the easiest parts of trip planning. Thanks to the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, you can apply online from anywhere in the world and receive approval within 24-72 hours—no embassy visits, no complicated paperwork, and no stress.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Sri Lanka tourist visa: requirements, application process, fees, validity periods, extensions, and insider tips to ensure smooth approval. Whether you’re visiting for beaches, culture, wildlife, or adventure, understanding the visa process is your first step to an unforgettable journey.

Planning your complete trip? Check out our Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026 for comprehensive destination information, and review our Sri Lanka Travel Cost Breakdown to budget your adventure properly.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Sri Lanka?

The Short Answer: Yes, Almost Everyone Does

With very few exceptions, all foreign nationals require a visa to enter Sri Lanka, including tourists, business travelers, and those in transit. This applies regardless of the purpose or duration of your visit.

However, don’t let this worry you. Sri Lanka has modernized its visa system to make the process as simple as possible for international visitors.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System

Sri Lanka uses an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system—a digital visa you can apply for and receive entirely online. This means:

✅ No embassy visits required—apply from home
✅ Fast processing—approval within 24-72 hours
✅ Digital delivery—visa sent directly to your email
✅ Simple application—takes 10-15 minutes to complete
✅ Multiple entry options—double entry within validity period

The ETA replaced the traditional visa-on-arrival system for most nationalities, offering a more efficient, secure, and convenient way to obtain travel authorization.

Who Needs a Sri Lanka Visa?

Need a visa:

• Tourists from most countries worldwide
• Business travelers
• Transit passengers (special transit visa available)
• Visitors staying more than 48 hours

Limited exceptions:

• Maldives and Singapore nationals (visa-free for 30 days)
• Seychelles nationals (visa-free for 30 days)
• Diplomatic passport holders from certain countries

Always verify your specific nationality’s requirements before traveling, as visa policies can change.

Understanding the Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)

What Exactly Is the ETA?

The Sri Lanka ETA is an official electronic visa issued by the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka. It’s not just a simple approval—it’s a legally binding travel authorization that’s electronically linked to your passport number.

Key characteristics:

• Digital format—no physical stamp in passport
• Pre-approved entry—immigration clearance faster at airport
• Validity starts on issue—not from entry date
• Multiple entries allowed—can exit and re-enter within validity
• Extendable—can apply for extensions after arrival

ETA vs Traditional Visa: What’s the Difference?

Types of Sri Lanka Visas for Visitors

Understanding which visa type you need is crucial for a successful application.

1. Tourist ETA (Most Common)

Purpose:

• Tourism and sightseeing
• Visiting friends or family
• Short-term leisure travel
• Cultural exploration
• Beach holidays

Details:

• Validity: 30 days from date of first entry
• Entries: Double entry (can exit and re-enter once)
• Extension: Can extend up to 180 days total
• Work: Not permitted
• Study: Not permitted

Cost:

• Most nationalities: $50 USD
• SAARC countries: $20 USD

This is the visa you need for your Sri Lanka vacation.

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2. Business ETA

Purpose:

• Business meetings
• Conferences and seminars
• Trade exhibitions
• Market research
• Contract negotiations

Details:

• Validity: 30 days
• Entries: Multiple entry possible
• Extension: Available
• Work: Meetings only, not employment

Cost: $50 USD

Documents: May require invitation letter from Sri Lankan company

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3. Transit Visa

Purpose:

• Passing through Sri Lanka to another destination
• Airport transit exceeding 48 hours
• Short layovers with exit from airport

Details:

• Validity: Up to 2 days
• Entries: Single or double
• Extension: Not available
• Tourism: Minimal activities only

Cost: FREE for most nationalities

When needed: If you’re leaving the airport during a layover and staying more than 48 hours

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4. Visa on Arrival (Limited Availability)

Important note: While visa on arrival technically exists, it’s strongly discouraged by Sri Lankan authorities.

Why ETA is better:

• ✅ Guaranteed approval before travel
• ✅ No airport queues
• ✅ No last-minute rejections
• ✅ Faster immigration clearance
• ✅ Same cost

Recommendation: Always apply for ETA in advance rather than relying on arrival procedures.

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Requirements: What You Need

The beauty of the ETA system is its simplicity. Here’s exactly what you need to apply.

Essential Requirements

1. Valid Passport

• Minimum validity: 6 months from arrival date
• Blank pages: At least 2 pages recommended
• Condition: Must be in good condition (no damage, water damage, or torn pages)
• Type: Regular passport (not emergency or temporary travel documents)

Pro tip: Check your passport’s expiration date right now. Many travelers forget this crucial detail until it’s too late!

2. Travel Details

• Return or onward ticket: Proof you’ll leave Sri Lanka
• Accommodation address: Hotel or residence in Sri Lanka
• Contact information: Phone and email

3. Financial Proof (Usually Not Required for ETA)

• While the online ETA application doesn’t require financial documents, immigration officers may occasionally ask for:
  • Credit/debit cards
  • Cash (sufficient for stay)
  • Bank statements (rare)

4. Valid Email Address

• Your ETA approval will be sent here
• Make sure you can access this email while traveling
• Check spam/junk folders if approval doesn’t arrive

5. Payment Method

• Credit or debit card for online payment
• Major cards accepted (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)

Documents You DON’T Need for ETA Application

Unlike traditional visa applications, you do not need to upload or submit:

❌ Passport photos
❌ Bank statements
❌ Hotel bookings
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Flight tickets
❌ Invitation letters (unless business visa)

Everything is entered as text information in the online form.

Special Considerations

For minors (under 18):

• Require their own ETA
• Parent/guardian applies on their behalf
• Same fees apply
• Birth certificate recommended (carry during travel)

For dual passport holders:

• Apply with passport you’ll use to enter Sri Lanka
• Cannot switch passports at immigration
• ETA is linked to specific passport number

How to Apply for Sri Lanka Tourist Visa (ETA): Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to apply? Follow this detailed walkthrough for a smooth, successful application.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

CRITICAL: Use ONLY the official Sri Lanka ETA website:

Official site: eta.gov.lk

Warning signs of fake sites:

• Unusual URLs or misspellings
• Significantly higher fees ($100+)
• Requesting unnecessary documents
• Poor English or unprofessional design
• No official government branding

Why this matters: Third-party sites often charge 2-3x the official fee for the same service, or worse, they might be scams.

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Step 2: Select “Apply for Individual”

On the homepage:

1. Click “Apply for Individual”
2. Select “Tourist ETA”
3. Click “Continue”

For groups: If traveling with family/friends, you can apply for multiple people, but each needs individual payment.

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Step 3: Fill in Personal Information

Section A: Personal Details

Enter exactly as shown in passport:

• Full name (first, middle, last)
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Nationality
• Country of birth

Important: Use the name on your passport EXACTLY as written. Middle name variations or nicknames will cause problems at immigration.

Section B: Passport Information

• Passport number
• Passport issue date
• Passport expiry date
• Issuing country

Double-check: Passport numbers are easy to mistype. Verify twice before submitting.

Section C: Contact Information

• Current address (home country)
• Phone number (with country code)
• Email address (where ETA will be sent)

Section D: Travel Information

• Intended date of arrival
• Purpose of visit (Tourism)
• Duration of stay (days)
• Address in Sri Lanka (hotel name is sufficient)

Section E: Emergency Contact

• Name
• Relationship
• Phone number

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Step 4: Review and Confirm

Before submitting:

✅ Read all information carefully
✅ Check passport number (most common error)
✅ Verify dates are correct
✅ Confirm email address (no typos!)
✅ Review travel dates

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Transposed passport numbers
• Wrong passport expiry date
• Email typos
• Incorrect nationality selection
• Mixed up day/month/year formats

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Step 5: Make Payment

Payment methods accepted:

• Visa credit/debit card
• Mastercard credit/debit card
• American Express

Fees (2026):

• Most countries: $50 USD
• SAARC countries (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc.): $20 USD
• Transit visa: FREE

Payment tips:

• Have your card ready
• Ensure card has international payments enabled
• Some banks flag this as suspicious—notify bank beforehand
• Payment confirmation is immediate

What happens after payment:

• Immediate payment confirmation screen
• Reference number provided
• Email confirmation of application received
• ETA approval sent separately (within 24-72 hours)

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Step 6: Receive Your ETA

Processing time: Typically 24-72 hours (most within 24 hours)

What you’ll receive:

• Email with subject: “Sri Lanka ETA Approval”
• PDF attachment with ETA details
• Reference number and validity dates

What to do with your ETA:

✅ Print 2 copies (one for check-in, one for immigration)
✅ Save PDF on phone (backup)
✅ Screenshot confirmation (extra backup)
✅ Email to yourself (multiple email accounts)

At the airport:

• Show printed ETA to airline check-in
• Present at Sri Lankan immigration
• Keep copy with you during stay

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Fees & Costs (2026)

Understanding the complete cost helps you budget accurately.

Official ETA Fees

SAARC countries include: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan

Hidden Costs to Avoid

Third-party application sites often charge:

• $75-150 USD (50-200% markup!)
• “Service fees”
• “Processing fees”
• “Expedited handling” (unnecessary)

How to avoid: Use ONLY the official government website (eta.gov.lk)

Is the ETA Fee Refundable?

No. The ETA fee is non-refundable, even if:

• Your application is rejected
• You cancel your trip
• You make a mistake in the application

This is why double-checking everything before submission is crucial.

Visa Validity & Duration of Stay

Understanding exactly how long you can stay is essential for trip planning.

Initial Tourist Visa Validity

From date of first entry:

• Duration: 30 days
• Entry type: Double entry (can exit and return once)
• Start date: First day you enter Sri Lanka (not issue date!)

Important distinction:

• ETA approval date ≠ Validity start date
• Your 30 days begins when you first arrive in Sri Lanka
• You can apply for ETA months before travel

Example:

• Apply for ETA: December 1, 2025
• Receive approval: December 3, 2025
• Arrive in Sri Lanka: January 15, 2026
• Your 30-day stay: January 15 - February 14, 2026

Double Entry Explained

Your tourist ETA allows double entry, meaning:

Scenario 1: Single trip

• Enter Sri Lanka once
• Stay up to 30 days
• Leave

Scenario 2: Two trips (within validity)

• Enter Sri Lanka (Start of 30 days)
• Leave for Maldives/India vacation
• Return to Sri Lanka (continues within same 30 days)
• Leave final time

Key point: The 30-day clock continues running even if you leave temporarily.

Maximum Stay Limits

Without extension:

• 30 days from first entry

With extensions (applied after arrival):

• First extension: 30 → 90 days
• Second extension: 90 → 120 days
• Third extension: 120 → 180 days
• Maximum total: 180 days (6 months)

How to Extend Your Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

Fell in love with Sri Lanka and want to stay longer? Extensions are possible and relatively straightforward.

Extension Options & Fees

How to Apply for Extension

Method 1: Online (Recommended)

1. Visit the official immigration website
2. Apply for visa extension
3. Upload required documents
4. Pay online
5. Receive approval via email

Method 2: In-Person (Colombo)

• Location: Department of Immigration and Emigration, “Suhurupaya,” Battaramulla, Colombo
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
• Documents needed:
  • Passport
  • Original ETA approval
  • Extension application form
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Hotel booking or address proof
  • Passport photos

Processing time: 1-3 working days

Pro tip: Apply for extension at least 1 week before your current visa expires. Don’t wait until the last day!

Extension Requirements

You’ll need to show:

• Valid reason for staying longer
• Sufficient funds for extended stay
• Accommodation details
• Return flight booking (can be after extension period)

Extensions are usually approved if:

• You haven’t violated any visa conditions
• You have no overstay history
• You can financially support yourself
• Purpose is legitimate tourism

Important Extension Notes

Cannot extend if:

• Original visa has expired (overstay penalties apply)
• You’ve violated visa conditions
• You’re working illegally
• Security concerns exist

Overstay penalties:

• Fine: $300-500 depending on duration
• Possible ban from re-entry
• Deportation in severe cases
• Legal complications

Always extend before expiry date!

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection (And How to Avoid Them)

While Sri Lanka’s ETA approval rate is very high (95%+), rejections do happen. Here’s why and how to prevent them.

Top Rejection Reasons

1. Passport Validity Issues

• ❌ Less than 6 months validity remaining
• ❌ Damaged passport pages
• ❌ Passport expiring soon after travel dates

Solution: Renew your passport before applying if it expires within 8 months.

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2. Incorrect Passport Details

• ❌ Mistyped passport number (most common!)
• ❌ Wrong expiry date
• ❌ Name spelling doesn’t match passport

Solution: Triple-check every character. Have someone else verify.

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3. Previous Overstay in Sri Lanka

• ❌ Stayed beyond visa expiry on previous visit
• ❌ Unpaid overstay fines
• ❌ Deportation history

Solution: Clear any previous violations before reapplying. Contact Sri Lankan embassy for guidance.

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4. Security Concerns

• ❌ Criminal record in certain categories
• ❌ Previous immigration violations
• ❌ Travel to restricted areas
• ❌ Security flagged passport

Solution: Consult with Sri Lankan embassy before applying if you have concerns.

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5. Payment Issues

• ❌ Payment failed or declined
• ❌ Incomplete payment processing
• ❌ Using someone else’s card without proper authorization

Solution: Ensure card has sufficient funds, international payments enabled, and notify your bank of the transaction.

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6. Application Errors

• ❌ Missing mandatory fields
• ❌ Inconsistent information
• ❌ Wrong visa type selected

Solution: Complete all fields carefully and review before submission.

What to Do If Your Visa Is Rejected

Don’t panic. Rejections are rare and usually fixable.

Steps to take:

1. Read the rejection email carefully

   • Check rejection reason
   • Note specific issues mentioned

2. Correct the issues

   • Fix passport details
   • Resolve any mentioned problems
   • Gather additional documentation if requested

3. Reapply

   • Submit new application
   • Pay new fee (non-refundable from first attempt)
   • Allow 24-72 hours for processing

4. Contact Sri Lankan Embassy (if needed)

   • For complex cases
   • Security concerns
   • Persistent rejections

Success rate after correction: Very high (90%+)

What Happens at Sri Lanka Immigration (Airport Arrival)

Understanding the arrival process helps you breeze through immigration confidently.

Documents to Have Ready

Essential documents:

1. Passport (original, valid)
2. ETA approval email (printed or on phone)
3. Return or onward ticket (booking confirmation)
4. Accommodation details (hotel name/address)

Nice to have:

• Travel insurance documents
• Emergency contact information
• Cash or credit cards (proof of funds, rarely checked)

Immigration Process Step-by-Step

Step 1: Arrival Card

• Usually provided on flight
• Fill in personal and travel details
• Attach to passport

Step 2: Immigration Queue

• Look for signs: “Foreign Passport” or “Non-Residents”
• Multiple counters usually available
• Wait time: 10-45 minutes depending on arrivals

Step 3: Immigration Officer Questions

Common questions:

• “Purpose of your visit?” → Tourism/Holiday
• “How long are you staying?” → [Number] days
• “Where are you staying?” → [Hotel name or city]
• “Do you have a return ticket?” → Yes [show booking]
• “Is this your first visit?” → Yes/No

Answer confidently and briefly. Be honest.

Step 4: Passport Stamp

• Officer stamps entry in passport
• Stamp shows: Entry date, Visa type, Expiry date
• Keep this page accessible for visa extensions

Step 5: Collect Baggage & Exit

• Proceed to baggage claim
• Go through customs (green channel if nothing to declare)
• Welcome to Sri Lanka!

Red Flags That May Cause Delays

Avoid these behaviors:

• Inconsistent answers to questions
• Inability to show return ticket
• No accommodation information
• Suspicious travel patterns
• Nervous or evasive behavior

Most delays are resolved quickly with proper documentation.

Special Notes

COVID-19 related (if applicable):

• Check current health requirements
• Vaccination certificates may be required
• Health declaration forms

Current travel conditions: After Cyclone Ditwah, check our Complete Safety Update for the latest entry requirements and affected areas.

Visa-Free Entry & Special Categories

A few nationalities enjoy special privileges.

Visa-Free Countries (30 days)

Currently visa-free:

• Maldives citizens
• Singapore citizens
• Seychelles citizens

Conditions:

• Valid passport (6 months)
• Return ticket
• Proof of accommodation
• Sufficient funds

Stay duration: Up to 30 days

Reduced Fee Countries (SAARC)

Countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan

Fee: $20 USD (instead of $50)

Process: Same ETA application process

Promotional Visa Schemes

Sri Lanka occasionally offers:

• Free visa periods (promotional campaigns)
• Reduced fees for specific markets
• Extended validity during off-season
• Family packages (rare)

These change frequently. Always check the official ETA website for current promotions.

Diplomatic & Official Passports

Different requirements:

• May not need ETA
• Require official approval from Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Contact Sri Lankan embassy before travel

Not covered by standard ETA system.

Essential Visa Tips for Sri Lanka Tourists

Insider tips from experienced travelers and immigration experts.

Before You Apply

1. Check passport expiry NOW

• Many travelers discover issues too late
• Passport renewals take weeks
• Check 6+ months in advance

2. Apply 1-2 weeks before travel

• Avoid last-minute stress
• Allows time for corrections if needed
• Still gives flexibility for date changes

3. Use only official website

• eta.gov.lk is the ONLY official site
• Beware of look-alike sites with .com or .org
• Save significant money

4. Save multiple copies of ETA

• Email yourself
• Print 2 copies
• Save PDF on phone
• Screenshot confirmation

5. Notify your bank

• Inform them of international payment
• Avoid card being blocked for “suspicious activity”

During Application

6. Double-check passport number

• Most common error
• Check digit by digit
• Have someone else verify

7. Use passport name exactly

• Include middle names if in passport
• Match spelling perfectly
• Don’t use nicknames or preferred names

8. Keep reference number

• Sent after payment
• Needed for inquiries
• Write it down separately

After Approval

9. Verify ETA details

• Check dates are correct
• Confirm passport number matches
• Ensure name spelling is exact

10. Print before departure

• Airlines may check at check-in
• Immigration wants to see it
• Don’t rely solely on phone

At the Airport

11. Keep ETA accessible

• In easily reached pocket or bag
• Don’t pack in checked luggage
• Have digital backup ready

12. Be honest with immigration

• Answer questions directly
• Don’t volunteer unnecessary information
• Have accommodation details ready

During Your Stay

13. Track visa expiry date

• Mark calendar on phone
• Apply for extension 1+ week early
• Never overstay

14. Keep passport safe

• Use hotel safe
• Carry copy, not original (unless needed)
• Know location of your embassy

15. Plan exit before expiry

• Book return flight with buffer
• Consider weather/transport delays
• Don’t cut it close

Smart Travel Planning: Connecting Visa to Your Trip

Your visa is just the first step. Here’s how it connects to complete trip planning.

Timing Your Visa Application

Best approach:

1. Book refundable flights (or know dates)
2. Apply for ETA (1-2 weeks before travel)
3. Receive approval (24-72 hours)
4. Book non-refundable elements (hotels, tours)
5. Travel with confidence

Why this order?

• Avoids losing money if visa denied (rare but possible)
• Gives flexibility for date adjustments
• Reduces stress

Budget Planning with Visa Costs

Total visa-related costs:

• ETA fee: $50
• Potential extension: $100 per 30 days
• Transportation to immigration office (if extending): $10-30
• Total: $50-280 depending on stay length

Include these in your overall budget. See our detailed Sri Lanka Travel Cost Breakdown for comprehensive budget planning.

Choosing Travel Dates Based on Visa

Consider:

30-day validity is sufficient for most tourists

• Ideal trip length: 10-21 days
• Covers: Major destinations without rushing
• Flexibility: No extension needed

Want longer? Plan extension in advance:

• Apply after arrival
• Budget extra $100
• Visit Colombo immigration office

Best months to travel? Check our Complete Weather Guide to match your visa dates with ideal weather.

Sample Itinerary Considering Visa Validity

Perfect 2-week trip (within 30-day visa):

• Days 1-2: Colombo & Negombo
• Days 3-5: Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa)
• Days 6-8: Kandy & tea country
• Days 9-11: Ella & hill country
• Days 12-14: South coast beaches (Mirissa, Galle)

Travel buffer: 14 days of travel + 16 days buffer = comfortable within 30-day visa

Full itineraries and planning in our Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sri Lanka Visa

Can I get a Sri Lanka visa online?

Yes, absolutely. The ETA system is entirely online. Visit eta.gov.lk, complete the application form, pay online, and receive approval via email within 24-72 hours. No embassy visits or physical applications required.

How long does Sri Lanka ETA approval take?

Typically 24-72 hours, with most applications approved within 24 hours. Apply at least 1 week before travel to allow for any potential delays or corrections. Rush or expedited processing is not available.

Is the Sri Lanka visa difficult to get?

No, it’s very easy. The approval rate exceeds 95% for tourists. The online application takes 10-15 minutes, requires basic information, and approval is fast. Common issues are usually simple errors (passport number mistakes) that are easily corrected.

Do children need a Sri Lanka visa?

Yes, all travelers including infants need their own ETA. Apply separately for each child using their passport details. The fee is the same as adults ($50 for most countries, $20 for SAARC). Parents/guardians can apply on behalf of minors.

Can I work on a Sri Lanka tourist visa?

No, absolutely not. Tourist visas strictly prohibit employment, paid or unpaid. Working on a tourist visa can result in:

• Immediate deportation
• Fines and penalties
• Ban from re-entry
• Legal prosecution

For work, you need a separate employment visa sponsored by a Sri Lankan company.

What if I make a mistake on my visa application?

If you notice before submission: Correct it immediately. All fields are editable before final submission.

If you notice after submission: The fee is non-refundable, but you can:

1. Contact immigration via email explaining the error
2. For minor errors (one-letter typo), they may correct it
3. For major errors (wrong passport number), you’ll need to reapply and pay again

Prevention: Triple-check everything before clicking submit.

Can I extend my visa multiple times?

Yes. You can extend up to a total of 180 days (6 months) by applying for multiple 30-day extensions. Each extension costs $100 and can be applied for online or in person in Colombo. Apply at least one week before current visa expires.

What happens if I overstay my Sri Lanka visa?

Serious consequences:

• Fines: $300-500 depending on overstay duration
• Detention: Possible detention at immigration facilities
• Deportation: At your expense
• Ban: Possible future entry ban
• Legal record: Recorded in Sri Lankan immigration system

If you realize you’ll overstay: Apply for extension immediately, even if already expired (better than willful overstay).

Do I need travel insurance for Sri Lanka visa?

Not required for ETA approval, but strongly recommended for your trip. Travel insurance covers:

• Medical emergencies
• Trip cancellations
• Lost luggage
• Emergency evacuation
• Accident coverage

Some airlines may require proof of insurance. Budget $30-80 for 2-week coverage.

Can I enter Sri Lanka with a one-way ticket?

Technically possible but risky. Immigration officers may:

• Question your intentions
• Request proof of sufficient funds
• Ask about onward travel plans
• Potentially deny entry

Recommendation: Always have proof of onward travel (return ticket or ticket to another country).

Is the ETA linked to my passport?

Yes, electronically. The ETA is tied to your specific passport number. If you:

• Renew passport after getting ETA → Must apply for new ETA with new passport
• Have dual passports → Apply with passport you’ll use to enter
• Lose passport → ETA is invalid, get new passport and reapply

Can I apply for someone else’s visa?

Yes, for family members or travel companions. You can apply for others if you have:

• Their passport details
• Their personal information
• Their permission
• Your payment method

Many families apply for all members together. Each person still needs individual ETA and payment.

Important Reminders & Final Checklist

Before You Apply

• [ ] Passport valid for 6+ months
• [ ] Passport has 2+ blank pages
• [ ] Have credit/debit card ready
• [ ] Know your arrival date (approximate is fine)
• [ ] Know accommodation address (hotel name sufficient)
• [ ] Using official website (eta.gov.lk)

During Application

• [ ] Selected “Tourist ETA”
• [ ] Entered passport number correctly
• [ ] Matched name exactly to passport
• [ ] Double-checked all dates
• [ ] Verified email address
• [ ] Reviewed entire application
• [ ] Made payment successfully
• [ ] Saved reference number

After Approval

• [ ] Received ETA email
• [ ] Verified all details correct
• [ ] Printed 2 copies
• [ ] Saved PDF on phone
• [ ] Emailed copy to self
• [ ] Added to travel documents folder
• [ ] Set calendar reminder for expiry

At Airport

• [ ] ETA printed copy in hand
• [ ] Passport valid and accessible
• [ ] Return ticket booking available
• [ ] Hotel details ready
• [ ] Arrival card filled out
• [ ] Confident and ready!

Conclusion: Your Visa Is Just the Beginning

Congratulations! You now know everything you need about getting a Sri Lanka tourist visa. The ETA system makes entering this beautiful island nation simple, fast, and stress-free.

Quick Recap

Sri Lanka ETA is:

• ✅ Easy to apply online (10-15 minutes)
• ✅ Fast approval (24-72 hours)
• ✅ Affordable ($50 for most countries)
• ✅ Valid for 30 days initially
• ✅ Extendable up to 180 days
• ✅ Double entry allowed

Remember to:

1. Apply 1-2 weeks before travel
2. Use only the official website
3. Double-check passport details
4. Print multiple copies
5. Keep with you during travel

Your Next Steps

1. Apply for your ETA today:
Visit eta.gov.lk and complete your application

2. Plan your complete trip:
Read our Ultimate Sri Lanka Travel Guide 2026

3. Understand timing:
Check Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

4. Budget properly:
Review Complete Cost Breakdown

5. Check current conditions:
See Latest Travel Update

The Adventure Awaits

With your visa sorted, you’re one step closer to experiencing:

• 🏖️ Paradise beaches
• 🏔️ Misty mountains
• 🐘 Incredible wildlife
• 🛕 Ancient temples
• 🍛 Amazing cuisine
• ❤️ Warm hospitality

Sri Lanka is ready to welcome you. Your visa is your ticket to one of Asia’s most incredible destinations.

Start your application today, and we’ll see you in Sri Lanka! 🇱🇰✨

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Last updated: January 5, 2026. Visa requirements and fees subject to change. Always verify current information on the official ETA website before applying.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below, and we’ll help you get your Sri Lanka visa approved! 💬