Most visitors to Sri Lanka need a visa — and the good news is that obtaining one is straightforward. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) can be applied for online before travel and is available to citizens of most countries. The process takes minutes and approval typically comes within 24 hours. This guide covers everything you need to know.
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)
The ETA is a pre-approved online visa available to citizens of most countries, including the UK, USA, EU countries, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most Asian nations. It is applied for through the official Sri Lanka ETA website operated by the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Cost: USD 35 for most nationalities (single entry, 30 days). The ETA is valid for 6 months from the date of issue; you must enter Sri Lanka within this 6-month window. It allows a stay of 30 days, extendable to 90 days once in Sri Lanka.
How to Apply
Go to the official ETA portal (eta.gov.lk). Complete the online form — passport details, travel dates, accommodation address in Sri Lanka, return ticket information. Pay by credit or debit card. You will receive an email confirmation; print this or save it to your phone. Approval is usually granted within 24 hours but can take up to 72 hours during busy periods. Apply at least 3 days before travel.
What You Need
A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date. A return or onward ticket (you may be asked to show this at immigration). Proof of sufficient funds (rarely asked, but have a bank statement or travel card to hand). Accommodation address for at least your first night. The USD 35 fee (paid online by card). No supporting documents are uploaded — the form is self-declared.
Visa on Arrival
Visa on arrival is available at Bandaranaike International Airport for most nationalities — but it costs more (USD 40+), involves queuing at the immigration desk, and takes significantly longer than arriving with a pre-approved ETA. Pre-applying online is strongly recommended. Visa on arrival is useful only if you forgot to apply in advance.
Extending Your Visa
The initial 30-day ETA can be extended to a maximum of 90 days total. Extensions are processed at the Department of Immigration office in Battaramulla (Colombo suburb) or at immigration offices in Kandy and other major cities. The fee for the first extension (30 to 60 days) is LKR 3,000; the second extension (60 to 90 days) is LKR 3,000. Bring your passport, a passport photo, your hotel address, and proof of funds. Extensions take 1–2 business days. Apply before your initial 30 days expire or you will be overstaying illegally.
Countries that Get Free Visas
Sri Lanka periodically grants free ETAs to citizens of selected countries to boost tourism — these arrangements change frequently. Check the official ETA portal at the time of booking for current free-visa nationalities. In recent years, free visas have been offered to citizens of India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and several other Asian and SAARC nations.
Practical Tips
Always apply through the official government ETA portal (eta.gov.lk) — numerous third-party sites charge processing fees for the exact same service. Keep a digital and paper copy of your ETA approval email. Ensure your passport details on the ETA exactly match your passport. If you have a dual nationality passport, apply with the same passport you will use to travel. At Sri Lankan immigration, you will go through an automated e-gate (if your passport has a chip) or a staffed desk — the process is generally quick. Welcome to Sri Lanka.