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Sri Lanka Visa & Entry Requirements

Everything you need to know before booking flights — ETA process, costs, nationality eligibility, and how to extend your stay.

ETA Cost
USD $20
single entry
Processing
~Minutes
up to 48 hrs
Initial Stay
30 Days
extendable
Max Stay
90 Days
with extensions

Obtain your ETA before you depart — not on arrival

Most airlines will not board passengers without an approved ETA. Apply at eta.gov.lk at least 2–3 days before flying.

Visa Types & Costs

Most Common
✈️
Tourist ETA — Single Entry
USD $20
30 days
Extendable up to 90 days
🔄
Tourist ETA — Double Entry
USD $35
30 days / visit
Extendable up to 90 days
💼
Business ETA
USD $35
30 days
Extendable up to 90 days
🏠
Long-Stay / Resident Visa
Apply via Sri Lankan Embassy
Varies
Up to 1 year+
Contact Sri Lankan Embassy

How to Apply for an ETA

Takes roughly 10–15 minutes. Have your passport ready.

  1. 1
    Visit the Official ETA Portal
    Go to eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ — the official Government of Sri Lanka portal. Avoid third-party websites that charge higher fees for the same application.
  2. 2
    Select Your Visa Type
    Choose Tourist (holiday travel), Business (commercial visits), or Transit (passing through). Most visitors select Single Entry Tourist.
  3. 3
    Fill the Application
    Enter your passport details, intended arrival/departure dates, and accommodation address in Sri Lanka. Every field must exactly match your passport.
  4. 4
    Pay Online
    Pay USD $20 (single entry) by Visa or Mastercard. A service charge applies. Save your payment receipt and the application reference number.
  5. 5
    Save Your Approval
    Check your inbox and spam folder. Most approvals arrive within minutes. Print or screenshot your ETA — you'll need it at check-in and at the border.
Apply for ETA at eta.gov.lk

Official Sri Lanka Government portal — no third-party fees

Nationality Eligibility

ETA-Eligible (Most Tourists)

Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, European Union countries, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and most other nationalities can apply for an ETA online at eta.gov.lk. This covers the majority of international visitors.

Visa-Free / ETA-Free Arrangements

A small number of nationalities have bilateral agreements with Sri Lanka that waive the ETA requirement or fee. Check the official ETA portal to confirm whether your passport qualifies before applying.

Prior Approval / Embassy Visa Required

Some nationalities cannot obtain an ETA online and must apply for a visa through the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before travelling. The Embassy will advise on required documents and processing times.

Visa rules change frequently. Always verify your nationality's current requirements at eta.gov.lk before booking.

Extending Your Stay

Department of Immigration & Emigration, Battaramulla
  • Extensions granted in 30-day increments — maximum 90 days total stay
  • Visit before your current authorisation expires (allow several days buffer)
  • Bring: passport, ETA approval letter, 2 passport photos, proof of funds, return ticket
  • The office is at 'Suhurupaya', Battaramulla, Colombo — take the 138 bus or a Pickme
  • Extension fee is approximately LKR 5,000–10,000 per extension
  • You may be asked for a letter from your accommodation confirming your stay

What to Expect at Bandaranaike Airport (BIA)

Arrival Process
  1. 1Have your ETA approval accessible on your phone or printed
  2. 2Carry proof of your return or onward flight
  3. 3Be ready to state your accommodation address in Sri Lanka
  4. 4Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival
  5. 5Declare any restricted goods at customs (see customs website for limits)
  6. 6Currency exchange is available before and after immigration
  7. 7Official taxis and Pickme/PickUp apps are available in Arrivals

Important Warnings

Never overstay
Overstaying your visa leads to daily fines, possible detention, and future entry bans. Extend before expiry.
Use only the official portal
Many unofficial sites charge 2–4× the official price for the same ETA. Only apply at eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
ETA ≠ guaranteed entry
An approved ETA lets you board a flight. The Immigration Officer makes the final entry decision at BIA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Most visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) obtained online before arriving. A small number of nationalities are exempt, while some require a traditional visa from a Sri Lankan embassy. Always verify your nationality's requirements at eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ before booking flights.
How much does a Sri Lanka ETA cost?
A Single-Entry Tourist ETA costs USD $20. A Double-Entry Tourist ETA costs USD $35. Business ETAs are USD $35 for single entry. A service charge is added during the application. Free ETA promotions are occasionally offered — check the official portal for current pricing.
How long does ETA approval take?
Most ETAs are approved instantly or within a few hours. Official processing can take up to 3 business days. Apply at least 2–3 days before departure. Carry a printed or digital copy of your ETA approval when checking in for your flight.
How long can I stay on a tourist ETA?
A standard Tourist ETA grants an initial stay of 30 days from your arrival date. You can extend your stay at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Battaramulla, Colombo, up to a total of 90 days (initial 30 days + two 30-day extensions).
Can I extend my visa while in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration at 'Suhurupaya', Battaramulla, near Colombo. Extensions are granted in 30-day increments, up to 90 days total. Bring your passport, ETA approval, a passport photo, and proof of sufficient funds. Begin the process before your current authorization expires.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying is a serious offence. Consequences include daily fines, detention, deportation, and potential bans on future entry to Sri Lanka. Always ensure your visa is valid or extend it before it expires.
Can I work or volunteer on a tourist ETA?
No. A tourist ETA strictly prohibits paid employment and formal volunteering. Working on a tourist visa is illegal. If you plan to work, volunteer for extended periods, or conduct business, contact the nearest Sri Lankan embassy for the appropriate visa category before you travel.
How do I enter Sri Lanka — are there land borders?
Sri Lanka is an island nation, so there are no land borders. Entry is via air or sea. Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA/CMB) near Colombo is the primary international gateway. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) in Hambantota also handles international flights. Colombo Port accepts cruise ship arrivals.
Is an ETA approval a guarantee of entry?
No. An ETA is an authorisation to board your flight to Sri Lanka and request entry — not a guarantee. The final decision rests with the Immigration Officer at the port of entry. Carry sufficient funds, a return or onward ticket, and be prepared to state the purpose and duration of your visit.

Official Resources

Sri Lanka ETA PortalOfficial
Official ETA application — the only portal where you should apply
Department of Immigration & EmigrationOfficial
Visa extensions, residency, and immigration services
Sri Lanka Tourism Development AuthorityOfficial
Registered accommodation, tours, and tourist advisories

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This guide is for informational purposes only. Visa rules change without notice. Verify requirements with official sources before travelling.