Sri Lanka is a popular travel destination known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and incredible wildlife. But before you plan your trip, make sure you’re familiar with the visa requirements.
Sri Lanka has a simple visa process for most travelers, whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or even a short family visit. Here’s everything you need to know to get your visa sorted out.
Types of Sri Lankan Visas
Tourist Visa
The most common visa for travelers heading to Sri Lanka is the Tourist Visa. It allows you to stay in the country for up to 30 days, with the possibility of extending it for up to 90 days.
If you’re visiting on holiday, sightseeing, or even visiting friends and family, this is the visa you’ll need.
Business Visa
If you’re going to Sri Lanka for business-related reasons, you’ll apply for a Business Visa. This visa lets you attend meetings, conferences, or workshops. You can’t, however, work full-time with just a Business Visa.
The Business Visa is also valid for 30 days. In some cases, it can be extended, but that depends on the nature of your work visit.
Transit Visa
If you’re transiting through Sri Lanka on your way to another country, you’ll need a Transit Visa. It allows you to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 48 hours.
The Transit Visa is free for travelers, but you’ll still need to apply if your layover is longer than a few hours and you want to leave the airport.
Visa Application Process
e-Visa (Electronic Travel Authorization)
Sri Lanka offers an easy-to-use e-Visa system known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). You can apply for an ETA online before you arrive in Sri Lanka.
The ETA covers both tourist and business visas, and in most cases, you’ll receive approval within a few minutes. Sometimes, it can take up to 24 hours, so apply at least a few days before your trip.
Steps to Apply for an ETA:
- Go to the official Sri Lankan ETA website.
- Fill out the application form with your personal details.
- Select whether you’re applying for a Tourist or Business Visa.
- Pay the visa fee with a credit or debit card.
- Submit your application and wait for the confirmation email.
Once approved, you’ll receive your ETA via email. Print it out or keep a digital copy on your phone to show at immigration when you arrive in Sri Lanka.
Visa on Arrival for Some Nationalities
Some travelers can get a Visa on Arrival when they land in Sri Lanka. However, to avoid any problems at the airport, it’s easier and faster to apply for an ETA online before traveling.
Visa on Arrival is available for the same types of visas (Tourist and Business) but keep in mind that you’ll have to queue at the airport, and approval isn’t guaranteed.
Countries Eligible for an ETA
Most nationalities need an ETA to enter Sri Lanka. However, there are a few countries that are eligible for a free ETA or Visa on Arrival. Here’s a basic breakdown:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Germany
- France
- Japan
- India
- China
This is not an exhaustive list. To be 100% sure about your country’s eligibility, check the official Sri Lankan ETA website.
Visa Exempt Countries
Most travelers need a visa for Sri Lanka, even for brief visits. However, a few countries are fully visa-exempt. Citizens of the following countries can visit Sri Lanka without a visa:
- Maldives (30 days)
- Seychelles (30 days)
- Singapore (30 days)
If you’re from one of these countries, you can enter Sri Lanka without needing to apply for an ETA or pay a visa fee. Upon arrival, you’ll usually be issued with an entry stamp.
Visa Fees
Visa fees for Sri Lanka vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Here are the approximate costs for the most common visa types:
- Tourist Visa (ETA): $35 for most nationalities
- Business Visa (ETA): $40
- Transit Visa: Free
Keep in mind these prices are for ETAs. If you get your visa on arrival, the fee may be different. Always check the latest information on the official website before applying.
Visa Extensions
If you want to stay in Sri Lanka longer than 30 days, you can apply for a visa extension. You can extend your Tourist Visa for up to an extra 60 days, giving you a total of 90 days in the country.
Visa extensions must be applied for within Sri Lanka at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. Applications need to be submitted before your initial visa expires.
How to Apply for a Visa Extension:
- Visit the Department of Immigration office in Colombo.
- Take your passport, a passport-sized photo, and the visa extension application form.
- Pay the extension fee (it varies by nationality).
The process usually takes a few hours, but it’s a good idea to arrive early in case of any delays.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
If you hold a diplomatic or official passport, you may not need an ETA or visa to enter Sri Lanka for short visits. However, this varies by country, so it’s good to double-check with your embassy or travel agent.
Dual Nationality
Dual nationals who hold Sri Lankan citizenship generally don’t need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You’ll enter using your Sri Lankan passport.
COVID-19 Requirements
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sri Lanka has temporary rules related to health documents. It’s best to check if you need negative test results or proof of vaccination before you travel. Keep up with the latest rules on official government websites.
Practical Visa Application Tips
Here are a few simple tips to make the visa or ETA process easy and hassle-free:
- Always double-check your passport validity. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
- Buy travel insurance to cover your trip. Some border officers may ask for proof of insurance, especially for longer stays.
- When applying for your ETA, make sure to list your name exactly as it appears on your passport to avoid unnecessary delays.
- Print out your ETA approval before you land and keep a digital copy on your phone.
- Arrive prepared with your flight details and accommodation info in case immigration officers request them.
With these tips and this guide, you’re all set to get your Sri Lankan visa and enjoy your trip!
Leave a reply