How to Get Sri Lanka Tourist Visa
- A Complete Guide

If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, most travellers need a visa before arrival. The good news is that getting a Sri Lanka tourist visa is simple and can be done online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system managed by the Department of Immigration and Emigration Sri Lanka.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Sri Lanka visa requirements, visa fees, ETA application process, and visa validity.

Yes, all foreign tourists are required to obtain a visa before travelling to Sri Lanka. The easiest way to get a Sri Lanka tourist visa is by applying online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. This online visa application is quick and convenient, and once approved, the ETA is electronically linked to your passport and allows you to enter Sri Lanka for tourism purposes.
However, citizens of certain countries may receive visa-free entry or visa on arrival.

Everyone (except citizens from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cote d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Myanmar, Nigeria, North-Korea, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Syria and Uganda) can apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online on the Immigration Department through their official website: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ 

You can apply for the Sri Lanka ETA online before your trip.

Steps to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA Online
1. Visit the official ETA website of the Sri Lankan Immigration Department - https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ 
2. Click on Apply and fill out the ETA application form.
3. Submit the required personal and travel details.
4. Pay the visa processing fee using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.
5. Receive confirmation and reference number after submission.

Important Notes
Most ETA applications are processed within 1–2 hours, and the approval is sent via email.
Travelers should carry a printed copy of the ETA approval when arriving in Sri Lanka.
If your ETA application receives a referral notice, you will need to contact the Sri Lankan Immigration Department, where a visa officer will advise you about any additional requirements needed for approval.

1. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is the most common visa for tourists.
Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
It allows short tourist stays and can usually be extended while you are in Sri Lanka for up to six months, subject to approval by the Department of Immigration and Emigration Sri Lanka.

2. Embassy Visa
A visa issued by a Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate is generally:
Valid for up to 3 months from the date of issue.
Can be issued for single, double, or multiple entries, depending on the type of visa granted.

3. Transit Visa
A transit visa is issued to travellers passing through Sri Lanka and is:
Valid for 2 days (48 hours) only.

Tip: Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival when travelling to Sri Lanka.

The visa fees for visiting Sri Lanka depend on whether you apply online in advance or obtain the visa on arrival at the airport through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system.

1. Sri Lanka ETA Fees (Applied Online)
When applying online through the Department of Immigration and Emigration Sri Lanka website, the visa fees are:
US$ 35 – Single or Double Entry Tourist Visa
US$ 40 – Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
Transit Visa – Free of charge

2. Sri Lanka Visa Fees at the Airport (ETA on Arrival)
If you choose to obtain your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) on arrival at the airport in Sri Lanka, the fees are:
US$ 40 – Single or Double Entry Tourist Visa
US$ 50 – Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
Transit Visa – Free of charge

Important Note
Visa fees are determined by the Sri Lankan immigration authorities and may change without prior notice according to updates issued by the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.

Citizens from the following countries can obtain visas free of charge on arrival:
Singapore – 30 days visa on arrival (extendable up to 150 days)
Maldives – 30 days visa on arrival (extendable up to 150 days)
Seychelles – 60 days visa on arrival (extendable to 90 days in a year)

Most ETA applications are processed within 1–2 hours, although travelers should apply at least 2–3 days before travel.

Yes, a tourist visa for Sri Lanka can be extended if you wish to stay longer. The initial Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) allows visitors to stay for 30 days, but it can be extended while you are in Sri Lanka. With approval from the Department of Immigration and Emigration Sri Lanka, a tourist visa can be extended for a maximum stay of up to 6 months, subject to immigration regulations and approval. Travellers must apply for the extension before their current visa expires through the Sri Lankan Immigration authorities.