Important Visa Policy Update (Feb 2026)
Sri Lanka Visa Guide
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) - Apply online before your trip
Processing Time
24-72 hours
Standard Cost
$50-60 USD (+ processing)
Validity
30-60 days (extendable to 6 months)
Passport Validity
6 months from entry
How to Apply Online
Follow these steps to get your ETA before traveling
- 1
Visit Official Portal
Go to https://www.srilankaevisa.lk
- 2
Fill Application
Fill out the application form with passport details
- 3
Pay Fee
Pay using credit or debit card (USD or LKR)
- 4
Receive Confirmation
Receive ETA via email within 24-72 hours
- 5
Print Confirmation
Print or save ETA confirmation for airport check-in
Visa Fees
Free Visa Pilot Scheme (Expanded 2026)
Includes: India, China, Russia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, plus expanded list of ~35+ countries (UK, USA, Canada, Australia, most EU nations) pending final gazette. Check official portal.
Standard Tourist Visa
SAARC Countries
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Seychelles
Children under 12
On Arrival Option
Available but NOT recommended due to queues. Online ETA is preferred.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Sufficient funds for stay (approximately $30-50 USD per day)
- Contact information for your accommodation
Passport Requirements
- Valid for at least 6 months from entry date
- At least 2 blank pages available
- Not damaged or overstamped
Free Visa Waiver Countries
Citizens of these countries can obtain free visa waivers
Important Notes
- Warning:Apply at least 3 days before travel (24-72 hour processing)
- Warning:ETA is valid for 30 days from date of issue (not arrival)
- Warning:Tourist Police number for support: 1912 or +94 11 242 1052
- Warning:Can extend from 30 days up to 6 months at Immigration Office Colombo
- Warning:MANDATORY: Complete Digital Arrival Card online (free) 7 days before travel
- Warning:Do NOT miss the visa payment queue at immigration - separate from main queue
- Warning:Overstay penalty: LKR 1,000/day (~$3 USD/day), then deportation
Official Government Portal: https://www.srilankaevisa.lk