Visa Services – Hassle-Free Travel Assistance

Quick Overview

Sri Lanka offers Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for tourists from most countries. The process is completely online and typically processed within 24-48 hours. Below is everything you need to know about obtaining your Sri Lankan tourist visa.

Processing Time

24-48 Hours

Visa Type

Electronic (ETA)

Validity

30 Days

Cost

From $20 USD

Types of Tourist Visas Available

Short Stay ETA

For tourism purposes

Valid for 30 days
Double entry allowed
Processing: 24-48 hours
Cost: $20 USD

ETA Extension

Extend your stay

Extend up to 6 months
Apply within Sri Lanka
Processing: 3-5 days
Cost: From $40 USD

Transit Visa

For connecting flights

Valid for 48 hours
Proof of onward travel
Processing: 24 hours
Cost: Free

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Verify if you need a visa for Sri Lanka. Citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles do not require visas for stays up to 30 days. Most other nationalities require an ETA.

Note: Check the latest list of visa-exempt countries on the official Sri Lanka ETA website.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Gather the following documents before starting your application:

Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival
Digital passport-sized photograph (recent, color, white background)
Return or onward flight ticket
Proof of accommodation in Sri Lanka
Sufficient funds for the stay (approximately $50 USD per day)
Credit/Debit card for payment

Step 3: Complete Online Application

Visit the official Sri Lanka ETA website (www.eta.gov.lk) and:

Fill in the online application form with personal details
Upload required documents (passport copy, photograph)
Provide travel itinerary details
Double-check all information for accuracy

Important: Ensure all information matches exactly with your passport. Discrepancies can cause delays or rejection.

Step 4: Make Payment

Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. The standard fees are:

Visa Type	Standard Processing	Express Processing	Validity
Short Stay (30 days)	$20 USD	$30 USD	30 Days
Double Entry (30 days)	$35 USD	$45 USD	30 Days
Transit Visa	Free	Free	48 Hours

Step 5: Receive ETA Approval

After submission and payment:

You will receive an acknowledgment email immediately
ETA approval typically comes within 24-48 hours
Check your email (including spam folder) for the approval
Print the ETA approval to carry with you

Step 6: Arrival in Sri Lanka

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) or any other port of entry:

Present your passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Show printed ETA approval or have it accessible on your phone
Provide return/onward ticket if requested
Be prepared to show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds

Processing Timeline

Immediate

Application acknowledgment received via email

Within 24 hours (Standard)

80% of applications are processed within 24 hours

24-48 hours (Most Cases)

Remaining applications typically processed within 48 hours

Beyond 48 hours (Rare)

If additional verification is required. Check application status online.

Important Information & Regulations

Prohibited Activities:

Working or conducting business on a tourist visa
Overstaying your visa validity period
Engaging in journalism or research without proper authorization
Any form of employment or paid activity

Visa Extension Process

If you wish to extend your stay beyond 30 days:

Visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo before your visa expires
Submit extension application form with required documents
Pay extension fees (approximately $40 USD for first extension)
Extensions are typically granted in 30-day increments up to 6 months total

Visa on Arrival (Limited Availability)

Visa on Arrival is available only in exceptional circumstances and not guaranteed. It's strongly recommended to obtain ETA before travel. Conditions for VoA:

Only if ETA system is unavailable
Higher fee applies ($40 USD)
May face lengthy processing at airport
Not available for all nationalities

COVID-19 Update: As of 2024, no special COVID-19 requirements for entry to Sri Lanka. However, check latest travel advisories before your trip as regulations may change.

Visa Assistance & Support

Our team can assist you with your visa application process:

Emergency Contact

For urgent visa inquiries at airport:

Department of Immigration:
+94 11 532 9300

Official ETA Support

Email: eta@immigration.gov.lk

Website: www.eta.gov.lk

Immigration Office

Department of Immigration and Emigration
Sri Subhuthipura Road,
Battaramulla,
Sri Lanka

Office Hours

Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:15 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays

Need More Help?

Disclaimer: Visa regulations are subject to change. The information provided is for guidance only. Always verify current requirements with the official Sri Lanka ETA website or your nearest Sri Lankan embassy/consulate before traveling.

Travelers’ Feedback

Sri Lanka was absolutely stunning, and WFI Travel and Tourism made our journey effortless. From cultural sites to beautiful beaches, everything was perfectly organized. The team’s local knowledge helped us experience the real Sri Lanka. Highly recommended

Emma Richardson

United Kingdom

Our trip to Sri Lanka exceeded all expectations. WFI Travel and Tourism planned a perfect mix of wildlife safaris, hill country views, and historical landmarks. Everything was smooth, professional, and well coordinated.

Daniel Müller

Germany

This was my first visit to Sri Lanka, and it was unforgettable. WFI Travel and Tourism took care of every detail, allowing me to relax and enjoy the culture, food, and beautiful landscapes. The hospitality was exceptional.

Sophie Laurent

France

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Process