How to Get a Visa for Sri Lanka: A Complete Guide
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Sri Lanka, known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a tropical paradise offering stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re planning a beach holiday, a cultural tour, or an adventurous trek through lush tea plantations, getting a Sri Lankan visa is one of the first steps in your journey.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get a visa for Sri Lanka , including:
- Types of visas available
- The online application process (eTA)
- Required documents
- Fees and processing times
- Important tips
🎯 Focus Keyword: How to get visa for Sri Lanka
📄 Meta Description: Learn how to get a visa for Sri Lanka with our step-by-step guide. Discover the eTA process, required documents, fees, and travel tips for a hassle-free experience.
✈️ Who Needs a Visa for Sri Lanka?
Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. However, thanks to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system introduced by the Sri Lankan government, the visa process has become much simpler and faster for many travelers.
Citizens from over 170 countries are eligible for the Sri Lanka eTA , which allows for short-term tourism, business visits, or transit stays.
🔍 Tip : Check if your country is eligible for eTA on the official website before applying.
📝 Types of Visas for Sri Lanka
1. Tourist eTA
- For leisure travel, sightseeing, visiting family/friends.
- Valid for up to 30 days (can be extended).
2. Business eTA
- For attending meetings, conferences, or trade activities.
- Valid for up to 30 days.
3. Transit eTA
- For travelers passing through Sri Lanka en route to another destination.
- Valid for up to 48 hours.
4. Regular Tourist Visa / Business Visa
- Required for those not eligible for eTA.
- Applied at the nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.
💻 Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Sri Lanka eTA Online
The easiest and most common way to obtain a visa for Sri Lanka is through the eTA system . Here’s how to apply:
🌐 Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official Sri Lanka Immigration website : 🔗 https://eta.gov.lk
⚠️ Beware of third-party websites that charge extra fees. Only use the official site.
📝 Step 2: Choose the Correct eTA Type
Select between:
- Tourist eTA
- Business eTA
- Transit eTA
🖊️ Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Provide the following information:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number and expiry date
- Email address
- Arrival and departure dates
- Purpose of visit
- Accommodation details in Sri Lanka
Upload a clear scanned copy of your passport’s bio-data page.
📸 Step 4: Upload a Recent Photo
Upload a recent passport-style photo (white background preferred). Make sure it meets the requirements listed on the site.
💳 Step 5: Pay the eTA Fee
Payment can be made online via:
- Credit card (Visa, MasterCard)
- Debit card
- PayPal (varies by nationality)
💵 eTA Fees (as of 2024):
Category Fee Tourist eTA (30 days) USD $35 Business eTA (30 days) USD $35 Transit eTA (48 hours) USD $20
Some nationalities may have different rates. Always check the latest fee on the official site.
📨 Step 6: Receive Your eTA
After successful payment, your eTA will typically be processed within 1 business day (but can take up to 3 days in some cases).
You’ll receive an email confirmation with your eTA attached. Print a copy and carry it along with your passport when traveling.
🏛️ Applying for a Regular Visa (In-Person)
If you’re not eligible for eTA or require a longer stay, you must apply for a regular visa at the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate .
Steps:
- Visit the official website of the Sri Lankan Embassy in your country.
- Download and fill out the visa application form .
- Gather required documents :
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond return date)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photos
- Return flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Bank statement or financial proof
- Supporting documents (invitation letter, employment proof, etc.)
- Book an appointment (if required).
- Submit your application in person or by mail.
- Wait for processing (usually 5–10 working days).
- Collect your passport with the visa stamp.
🧾 Documents Required for Sri Lanka Visa
| Document | eTA | Regular Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport | ✅ | ✅ |
| Completed application form | ❌ | ✅ |
| Passport-sized photo(s) | ✅ (uploaded) | ✅ |
| Return flight ticket | ❌ | ✅ |
| Hotel booking or invitation letter | ❌ | ✅ |
| Bank statement or proof of funds | ❌ | ✅ |
| Printed eTA confirmation | ✅ | ❌ |
⚠️ Important Tips for Getting a Sri Lanka Visa
- Apply early : At least 1 week before your planned travel date.
- Check passport validity : Must be valid for at least 6 months after your return.
- No overstaying : Overstaying your visa can result in fines or entry bans.
- Carry printed eTA : You must present it upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
- Use only official channels : Avoid third-party visa agents unless necessary.
- Keep copies : Make digital and physical copies of all documents.
🛂 What to Expect Upon Arrival in Sri Lanka
At the immigration counter:
- Present your passport and printed eTA or visa
- Answer basic questions about your stay
- May be asked to show:
- Return ticket
- Hotel reservation
- Sufficient funds
Once cleared, proceed to baggage claim and customs.
🌍 Sample Checklist: Documents for Sri Lanka Visa
✅ Valid passport
✅ Completed visa application form (for regular visa)
✅ Passport photo(s)
✅ Return flight ticket
✅ Proof of accommodation
✅ Bank statement or financial proof
✅ Invitation letter (if applicable)
✅ Printed eTA (if applied online)
📞 Need Help?
For assistance with eTA applications, contact:
- Email : support@eta.gov.lk
- Phone : +94 112 302 302 (Colombo Office)
- Live Chat : Available on the official eTA website
For regular visa inquiries, contact your nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.
Final Thoughts
Getting a visa for Sri Lanka is a simple and streamlined process thanks to the eTA system . Most tourists can complete the entire application online in under 30 minutes, without ever having to visit an embassy.
With your visa secured, you’re ready to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka—from the ancient ruins of Sigiriya to the hill capital of Kandy, the beautiful beaches of Mirissa, and the lush green tea estates of Ella.
So pack your bags, secure your visa, and get ready to fall in love with this island paradise!
Ready to Go?
Start your Sri Lanka visa application today and plan your dream trip to one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.
🌴 Sun, sand, serenity — welcome to Sri Lanka!
