Sri Lanka Visa Information
Everything you need to know for 2026
How to Get a Sri Lanka Visa
Most tourists need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka. It is a simple online process that takes around 10 minutes and is approved within 24–48 hours.
Visa-Exempt (no ETA required)
Citizens of Maldives · Seychelles · Singapore do not need a visa or ETA.
Free ETA - 34+ Countries (since September 2024)
Citizens of these countries apply online but pay no fee:
Austria · Bahrain · Belarus · Belgium · Canada · China · Czech Republic · Denmark · France · Germany · United Kingdom · India · Indonesia · Iran · Israel · Italy · Japan · Kazakhstan · Malaysia · Nepal · Netherlands · New Zealand · Oman · Poland · Qatar · Russia · Saudi Arabia · South Korea · Spain · Sweden · Switzerland · Thailand · UAE · United States
How to Apply
Online (Recommended)
Best Option- Visit the official portal at eta.gov.lk
- Fill in your personal and passport details
- Upload a digital passport photograph
- Pay online: Visa, Mastercard or Amex accepted
- Receive ETA approval email within 24–48 hours
- Print your ETA confirmation and carry it when travelling
Visa on Arrival
Not Recommended- Available at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Colombo
- Higher fee ($60) compared to online ETA ($50)
- Risk of long queues, delays, or denial at the counter
Embassy / Consulate
- Required for stays over 90 days or special purposes
- Suitable for work, study, or medical visits
- Documents needed: valid passport, photographs, bank statements, return ticket proof
Key Requirements
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival date
Return or onward travel ticket
Confirmed accommodation details
Sufficient funds for your stay (may be checked on arrival)
Digital Arrival Card completed before landing
Required since 2023
ETA must be obtained online before departure
Visa on Arrival discontinued October 2025
Visa Types & Fees (2026)
* Fees accurate as of 2026. SAARC-region nationals (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc.) qualify for the reduced $20 rate. Always verify at eta.gov.lk.
Extensions
You can extend your stay up to a maximum of 270 days total. Apply before your current visa expires at the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo or at regional offices. Online extensions are also available.
Maximum stay timeline
Important Tips
Apply 10 days before travel
ETA processing usually takes 24–48 hours, but apply early to avoid last-minute stress.
Use only eta.gov.lk
Many third-party sites charge extra fees. The official portal is the only safe option.
Children need separate ETAs
Every traveller, including infants, requires their own individual authorisation.
Free ETA for 38 nations
Citizens of 38 countries including the USA, UK, India, China and Japan receive a free ETA. Check eta.gov.lk for the full list.
Ready to Visit Sri Lanka?
Your ETA takes just 10 minutes to apply.