Sri Lanka, often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” welcomes millions of travelers each year for its beaches, wildlife, history, and culture. To make travel easier, the Sri Lankan government operates an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system as well as short-term visa schemes for eligible visitors. This guide provides a clear overview of how to enter Sri Lanka legally and smoothly, whether you are visiting for a holiday, a short business trip, or simply transiting through.
In the following sections, you will find details about visa types, including tourist, business, transit, and diplomatic categories. We also explain the ETA process — how to apply online, how long it takes, and how to check your application status. For travelers from selected countries, we highlight the free visa-on-arrival scheme that is offered to boost tourism. You will also learn about visa fees, possible extensions for longer stays, and the official points of application both online and on arrival.
This Visa Guide is designed as a simple reference for travelers planning a visit to Sri Lanka. It does not replace official advice, and requirements may change without notice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the Department of Immigration & Emigration or the official ETA portal.
Temporary Free Visa Scheme to Promote Tourism
The Government of Sri Lanka has launched a temporary free visa on arrival program for selected countries to encourage tourism. This scheme is valid for six months starting 1 August,2025, allowing eligible travelers to enter without paying visa fees. Standard entry conditions such as passport validity, onward tickets, and proof of funds still apply.
👉 Below, you can use the country search tool to check whether your nationality is included in the free visa list for Sri Lanka. For official updates, visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration.
Free Visa on Arrival list is valid for six months starting 1 August. Standard entry rules still apply (passport validity, onward ticket, etc.).
See all countries with Free Visa on Arrival
Apply for Tourist Visa (ETA)
All foreign travelers visiting Sri Lanka for tourism can apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Even if you are from a free visa eligible country, you may still choose to apply online in advance to avoid waiting at the airport.
- Simple and secure online application
- Quick approval — usually within 24 hours
- Skip queues on arrival
- Valid for short-term stays (up to 30 days, extendable)
Note: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival. Travelers under the free visa promotion may also use the online ETA system for added convenience.
Check Your Sri Lanka ETA Status
Use the official portal to verify whether your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) has been approved. Remember: only the ETA Approval Notice is valid for travel (an acknowledgement alone is not sufficient).
What you need
- Confirmation Code (from your ETA email) — or tick “Confirmation Code Unknown”.
- Passport Number.
- Nationality (select from list).
Quick steps
- Open the official ETA status page.
- Enter your details exactly as in your application.
- Submit to see if your ETA is Approved, Pending, or Not approved.
Tip: If you can’t find your confirmation code, try the “Confirmation Code Unknown” option and search by passport number and nationality. For official guidance, visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Information
Overview of ETA
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official online travel permit issued by the Department of Immigration & Emigration of Sri Lanka. It is mandatory for most foreign visitors, except those exempted by special visa schemes. The ETA system allows travelers to apply and receive travel authorization online before arrival, avoiding delays at the airport.
Types of ETA
ETA is issued only for short visits to Sri Lanka for the purposes of Tourism, Business, or Transit. Each category has specific validity and conditions based on the nature of travel.
Application Website
All ETA applications must be submitted through the official portal at www.eta.gov.lk. The site provides instructions, payment facilities, and status tracking.
Submitting an Application
Applications can be completed entirely online. Travelers do not need a confirmed air ticket to submit an ETA application. Once details are entered and the processing fee is paid, the ETA is usually approved within 24 hours.
Checking ETA Status
Approved ETAs can be verified at any time through the official status check portal. Travelers must provide their ETA reference number. A 24/7 ETA hotline is also available at +94 71 99 67 888.
Payment and Security
The ETA processing fee is paid online via a secure international payment gateway. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Payments are processed in line with international security standards. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if the application is not approved.
Validity of ETA
An ETA is valid for six months from the date of issue. A new ETA cannot be applied for using the same passport until the existing one expires. If a passport containing a valid ETA is lost, a new application may be submitted by paying the fee again. A fresh ETA cannot be obtained while staying inside Sri Lanka.
Existing Visas and ETA
Travelers who already hold a valid Residence Visa or Multiple Entry Visa cannot apply for a fresh ETA until the current visa expires or is cancelled. For official or diplomatic visits, separate arrangements apply under bilateral agreements.
Corrections and Errors
Once an ETA application is submitted and paid, details cannot be changed and the fee is non-refundable. If incorrect information is entered, a new application must be submitted with the correct details and the relevant fee paid again. Always review your information carefully before confirming.
Privacy and Data Protection
The ETA system follows strict privacy standards. Only the information required to process the application is collected, and all data is stored securely on government servers. Personal details will not be shared beyond the processing of the ETA.
Reminder: An ETA is an official travel requirement for most visitors. Always apply through the official government website to ensure your application is valid and secure.
Normal ETA / Visa Charges (Outside the Free Visa Scheme)
These are the standard fees in USD when the temporary free visa scheme (40 countries, valid for six months from 1 August 2025) does not apply.
Children under 12 years are free.
A) ETA Processing Fee by Method of Submission (Up to 30 days)
| Method | SAARC — Tourist 30d (DE) | SAARC — Business 30d (ME) | SAARC — Transit 2d (SE) | Others — Tourist 30d (DE) | Others — Business 30d (ME) | Others — Transit 2d (SE) | Children < 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| By the Applicant | US$ 20 | US$ 30 | Free | US$ 50 | US$ 55 | Free | Free |
| By Third Party | US$ 20 | US$ 30 | Free | US$ 50 | US$ 55 | Free | Free |
| At Sri Lanka Overseas Missions | US$ 20 | US$ 30 | Free | US$ 50 | US$ 55 | Free | Free |
| Dept. of Immigration (Head Office, Colombo) | US$ 20 | US$ 30 | Free | US$ 50 | US$ 55 | Free | Free |
| On Arrival (Port of Entry) | US$ 25 | — | Free | US$ 60 | — | Free | Free |
Note: “On Arrival” is at the airport/port. Business VOA may not be available in all cases.
B) Sri Lanka Overseas Missions – Fees (30–90 days)
“Relevant country fee” is the visa fee set by the mission for that country.
| # | Visa Type | ETA Processing Fee (≤30d) | Visa Fee (30–90d) | Overseas Mission Charge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tourist — Double Entry (30 days) | US$ 20 (SAARC) / US$ 50 (Others) | Not applicable | — |
| 2 | Tourist — Single Entry (up to 90 days) | US$ 20 (SAARC) / US$ 50 (Others) | Relevant country Tourist Visa fee | — |
| 3 | Tourist — Double Entry (up to 90 days) | US$ 20 (SAARC) / US$ 50 (Others) | Twice the relevant country Tourist Visa fee | — |
| 4 | Business — Multiple Entry (30 days) | US$ 30 (SAARC) / US$ 55 (Others) | Not applicable | — |
| 5 | Business — Single Entry (up to 90 days) | US$ 30 (SAARC) / US$ 55 (Others) | Relevant country Business Visa fee | — |
| 6 | Business — Double Entry (up to 90 days) | US$ 30 (SAARC) / US$ 55 (Others) | Twice the relevant country Business Visa fee | — |
| 7 | Business — Multiple Entry (up to 90 days) | US$ 30 (SAARC) / US$ 55 (Others) | Thrice the relevant country Business Visa fee | — |
| 8 | Transit — Single Entry (2 days) | Free (SAARC) / Free (Others) | Not applicable | — |
Reminder: The temporary free visa scheme (1 Aug 2025 → 6 months) waives normal fees for the eligible countries during the promotion. Outside that, the charges above apply.
Diplomatic & Official Visits
Foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka for Diplomatic or Official purposes should forward ETA applications via the relevant Sri Lankan Government Ministries/Agencies or Sri Lanka Overseas Missions.
Important Notes
- Gratis (free) is applicable only for Diplomatic and Official passport holders.
- Gratis ETA may be granted to ordinary passport holders only where arrangements exist between Sri Lanka and the respective country.
- Diplomatic/Official passport holders must use the normal ETA procedure for personal trips; Gratis ETA may be granted based on bilateral arrangements.
- Do not apply for Tourist/Business ETA for official visits. Tourist/Business ETA cannot be converted into a Residence visa.
Countries with ETA Fee/Procedure Exemptions (Official & Private Visits)
Diplomatic & Official/Service passport holders from the following countries are exempted from ETA processing fees and procedures; a visit visa is issued on arrival.
| Country | Passport Type | Visa Duration / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Socialist Republic of Vietnam | Diplomatic, Official | 90 days |
| Republic of Cuba | Diplomatic | 90 days |
| Republic of Indonesia | Diplomatic, Official, Service | 30 days |
| Union of Myanmar | Diplomatic, Official, Service | 30 days |
| Islamic Republic of Pakistan | Diplomatic, Official | 30 days |
| Federative Republic of Brazil | Diplomatic, Official, Service | 90 days |
| Republic of Chile | Diplomatic, Official | 90 days |
| Republic of Seychelles | Diplomatic, Official, Ordinary | 60 days per visit; cumulative 90 days per year |
| People’s Republic of China (PRC) | Diplomatic, Official, Service, Public Affairs | Up to 30 days |
| Kingdom of Thailand | Diplomatic, Official | Not exceeding 90 days |
| Republic of Kenya | Diplomatic, Official | Up to 30 days |
| Republic of Belarus | Diplomatic, Official | Up to 30 days |
| Islamic Republic of Iran | Diplomatic, Official, Service | Up to 30 days |
| Republic of Maldives | Diplomatic, Official, Ordinary | Exemption of 90-day visa fee |
| Republic of Singapore | Diplomatic, Official, Ordinary | Up to 30 days |
| Republic of India | Diplomatic, Official (for official/diplomatic visits only) | 30 days. If employed by an international body/agency, obtain Visa/ETA for official/private visits. |
| Russian Federation | Diplomatic, Official, Service | 30 days |
| Republic of the Philippines | Diplomatic, Official | 30 days |
| Republic of Kazakhstan | Diplomatic, Service | 30 days |
| Government of Georgia | Diplomatic, Official/Service | Not exceeding 90 days in any 180-day period |
| Republic of Romania | Diplomatic | Not exceeding 90 days within any 180 days |
| Hong Kong SAR | Citizens of Hong Kong SAR | 30 days |
| Bangladesh | Diplomatic, Official | 30 days |
| State of Qatar | Diplomatic, Special | Up to 30 days |
| Sultanate of Oman | Diplomatic, Special, Service | Not exceeding 90 days within 180 days from first entry |
| Kingdom of Bahrain | Diplomatic, Special | Not exceeding 90 days within 180 days from first entry |
| Ukraine | Diplomatic, Service, Official | Not exceeding 30 days within 60 days |
| Kingdom of Cambodia | Diplomatic, Official/Service | 30 days |
Disclaimer: Policies and bilateral arrangements can change. Always verify current requirements on the Department of Immigration & Emigration website or with a Sri Lanka Overseas Mission.
How to Extend a Short Visit Visa (Tourist/Business)
Visitors who wish to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days can apply to extend their short visit visa. The visa may be extended for a **maximum total stay of 270 days from the date of arrival**, granted in three consecutive instances:
- On Arrival: 30 days
- 1st Extension: 60 days
- 2nd Extension: 90 days
- 3rd Extension: 90 days
Where & How to Apply
- In Person (Head Office): Submit your extension application at the Visa Section of the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Head Office).
- Online (e-Visa Extension): Apply through the official Visit Visa Extension portal for extensions up to 6 months.
- Through an Authorized Agent: If you cannot apply in person or online, you may proceed via a registered agent to the Department.
What You’ll Usually Need
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of application
- Current visa/ETA details and reference
- Proof of onward/return travel (if requested)
- Proof of sufficient funds / accommodation (if requested)
- Fee payment (amount depends on nationality/visa type)
Tip: Apply before your current permission to stay expires. Keep copies (digital/printed) of all documents.
How long does processing take?
Can I switch to another visa type?
For official updates, full instructions, office hours, and the online portal, visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration.
Contact Details
Department of Immigration and EmigrationSuhurupaya, Sri Subuthipura Road, Baththaramulla
- Hotline +94 71 996 7888
- Telephone +94 11 277 7638 — Mon–Fri 09:00–16:00 IST (except public holidays)
- Fax +94 11 267 4631
- E-mail (ETA) eta@immigration.gov.lk
- E-mail (Controller) controller@immigration.gov.lk
- Website immigration.gov.lk
Sri Lanka Visa – Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common questions about Sri Lanka ETA, visa on arrival, fees, extensions, and entry rules.
What is a gratis visa in Sri Lanka?
Is there a visa fee for Sri Lanka?
Are visas to Sri Lanka free?
Can I get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival?
Can you travel to Sri Lanka without a visa?
Is ETA mandatory for Sri Lanka?
Which countries need a visa to Sri Lanka?
Where do I get a Sri Lanka visa?
Where do I get the Sri Lanka e-visa (ETA)?
Do you need a photo for a Sri Lanka visa?
How far in advance should you apply for a Sri Lanka visa?
How much does a Sri Lanka visa cost?
What does ETA stand for in visas?
Is ETA better than visa on arrival?
Who does not need an ETA?
Can an ETA be rejected?
How can I avoid tourist visa rejection?
How do I apply for an ETA?
How quickly can I get an ETA?
What do you need to enter Sri Lanka?
Can you extend a tourist visa in Sri Lanka?
How long is the ETA valid?
Can I work in Sri Lanka on a tourist ETA?
Do children need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Does one ETA allow multiple entries?
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Can I apply at the airport instead of online?
Do I need a return/onward ticket?
Is an ETA the same as an e-visa?
How do I check my ETA status?
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only. We are not responsible for any changes in Sri Lanka’s immigration or visa policies. Travelers should always confirm details with the official Department of Immigration & Emigration or authorized government sources. Additional travel information can be found at Sri Lanka Travel Pages.