Sri Lanka ETA for Tourism, Visiting Family and Business

People who want to do business in Sri Lanka, travel in the country, or transit through the area can now get the travel permission they need through an online process. Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) makes entering and moving about the country easier than it has ever been before.

The Sri Lanka ETA is an official travel document that is issued electronically online and is your official authorization to enter the country.

Take in Sri Lanka’s beauty as a tourist, make new business connections, or spend a couple of days sightseeing while waiting for another flight. Sri Lanka has an ETA for each of these travel purposes so visitors can achieve all their goals in the country.

Since going into effect on January 1, 2012, the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) has become a travel tool that both tourists and business travelers absolutely love. Initially introduced with the intention of providing an efficient, reliable, and simplified service to those who visit the country, it has definitely lived up to expectations.

With us and 5-7 minutes of your time, you can have your ETA and be on your way to Sri Lanka faster and easier than ever before.

What is the Sri Lanka ETA?

The ETA to Sri Lanka is an online authorization that bypasses the formal visa application process. This method helps streamline the entry process for most visitors wanting to enter Sri Lanka.

The ETA online is extremely easy to obtain, and the actual processing time is minimal. Most applicants can apply for the ETA and have the official document printed out on the same day. This entry document is specific to the purpose of the visit to Sri Lanka. Visitors cannot go outside of what they are permitted to do, and they cannot exceed the maximum stay allowed in Sri Lanka.

Who Needs a Visa?

If a stay that exceeds the allowed number of days or falls outside the allowed activities is wanted, a visa to Sri Lanka may be needed.

This may be a long-term stay visa, employment visa, student visa, or journalist visa. These types of visits will require a more formal visa process. Contacting the Sri Lanka embassy will be needed for further guidance.

Applying for a Sri Lanka visa may require the applicant to gather some information and documents in order to complete the application. This may be a visa application, employment history, financial statements, and passport. Upon completion of the application process, a visa will be issued, and travel to Sri Lanka will be granted for a specific purpose; this depends on what visa category was applied for.

Requirements

In addition to the items discussed above, in order to apply online for the Sri Lanka ETA, you must meet the following conditions:

• Currently, be outside of Sri Lanka.
• Have a valid passport.
• Have a valid email address.
• Provide payment via a major credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, or PayPal.

Your Sri Lanka ETA application information must match your passport information. Furthermore, you need to remember the following:

• You must present the same passport that is linked to your ETA application when you arrive in Sri Lanka.
• Even if your children travel on your passport, they’ll need an individual ETA. All family members must complete separate ETA applications.
• You must depart Sri Lanka before your authorized time (30 days) expires. If not, you may be detained and/or removed from the country and it could affect your ETA eligibility in the future.

Purpose of Visit with ETA

You must obtain a Sri Lanka ETA if you’re visiting the country for any of the following reasons:

• Sightseeing, vacationing, holidaying.
• Visiting family and friends.
• Medical treatment (including Ayurvedic and yoga).
• Participating in sporting events, competitions, and cultural performance activities such as art, music, and dance events.
• Attending business meetings.
• Participating in business negotiations.
• Attending business conferences, workshops, symposiums, or seminars.
• Short-term employment training (less than 30 days).
• Participating in religious events.
• Transiting through Sri Lanka.

Another thing of importance to note is that Diplomatic and Official passport holders are not exempt from the ETA processing fee through this site. If you’d like to utilize your exemption, you must submit your application through state agencies such as Sri Lanka Overseas Missions, Ministries, Statutory Bodies, etc.

Applying Online

Submitting an application online is the first step to getting an ETA for Sri Lanka. The applicant will be asked to provide their basic information. This includes name, date of birth, passport number, address, etc.

Once this information is provided on the online form, make sure to double-check the information; details cannot be edited once the ETA visa has been issued. The online form will be followed by a payment screen. Once the payment is successfully captured, the application will be sent for processing.

Sri Lanka ETA Exemption for Some Travelers

In the interest of reciprocity, citizens from the following countries/territories are exempt from the requirement of obtaining an ETA to visit Sri Lanka:

• The Republic of Singapore
• The Republic of Maldives
• The Republic of Seychelles

Passport Validity Upon Entry to Sri Lanka

It is important to note the passport used for an ETA visa and travel to Sri Lanka must be valid for at least six months from your arrival in Sri Lanka.

Funds and Exiting Sri Lanka

If you are entering Sri Lanka by air, it is necessary to show proof of your departure plane ticket. This may be the round-trip ticket or a separate plane ticket showing when you will be exiting Sri Lanka. You will also need to have enough funds to cover your expenses for the entire time you’re in Sri Lanka.

Printing the Sri Lanka ETA Approval Email

It is highly advised to print out the ETA visa approval email. Print out an extra copy and keep it safe with your travel documents. You may be asked to show proof of the ETA upon departure and arrival in Sri Lanka.

Receiving the ETA

Once the Sri Lanka ETA is approved, an approval email will be sent out to the email on file. This email will include all the ETA details, including the approval number. Make sure to print this document and keep it with your passport.

Immigration officials in Sri Lanka will ask to see the ETA document upon arrival. Applicants will also be able to download the ETA from their Natvisa dashboard. This is automatically created once the ETA is purchased.

Upon Arrival

Upon ETA application acceptance, when you arrive at the port of entry in Sri Lanka, produce your passport and a copy of your ETA approval notice to the immigration officer and you’ll be issued a 30-day Short Visit visa. However, this Short Visit visa may be extended for up to six (06) months.

In addition to your ETA, upon arrival in Sri Lanka, you must also be able to prove the following:

1. If traveling by air, you must have a round-trip ticket.
2. Sufficient funds to cover your expenses for the entire time you’re in Sri Lanka.

• There are three types of ETA for Sri Lanka: Tourist ETA with double entry valid for 30 (thirty) days.
• Business ETA with double entry valid for 30 (thirty) days.
• Transit ETA - this is provided free of charge (processing fee still applies) for up to 2 days of transit, but documentary proof is required.

With your Sri Lanka ETA, double entries can be made from the date of your initial arrival within 30 days of the course. When you return for your second visit, the balance of your 30 days of the initial entry will be granted.

Are UK citizens eligible for Sri Lanka ETA?

Yes, British citizens can apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Application and approval details are the same for British citizens.

Can I apply for a new ETA while in Sri Lanka?

Unfortunately, you cannot apply for an ETA while in Sri Lanka. You will need to leave the country and apply again. It is your responsibility not to overstay in Sri Lanka.

Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?

An intended traveler planning a holiday visit, a short business trip, or to transit through needs to apply and obtain an ETA prior to arrival in Sri Lanka.

Do I need to upload or send out my passport?

No need to send off or upload any documents. Your passport number is what will be electronically linked to the ETA. The application is 100% online.

Does the Sri Lanka ETA allow multiple entries?

Yes, it does. You are allowed two (2) entries into Sri Lanka. Keep in mind both entries must be done within 30 days from the arrival date.

How long does it take to receive the eTA?

Applying for the Sri Lanka eTA is very simple, you will receive a response for your application within 30 minutes.

How will I receive my eTA Approval?

After the application is successfully processed and approved, the approved ETA will be sent to the email on file. Once you receive the email, kindly print and store in a safe place. You will need to take it with you on your travels.

I applied for a Transit ETA, but I want to leave the port for the day

If you have already applied for a Transit ETA and plan on leaving the port/airport while you are in Sri Lanka, you will need to get special permission at the Immigration Office so you can visit the city or leave the port/airport. This isn’t a problem.

I applied for a Transit ETA, but I want to leave the port for the day

Yes. Upon arrival, produce your passport to the immigration officer at the port of entry to obtain the necessary clearance. It is advisable for you to bring a copy of the ETA approval notice along with you.

If my ETA application isn’t approved, can I get a refund?

As stated in our Terms and Conditions, the ETA and processing fees are non-refundable despite the application being approved or rejected.

I’ve made an error in my ETA application. Can this be amended?

Once we receive the application, the details are immediately sent for approval. You will not be able to correct any mistakes made during the application form. It is important you are careful and accurate while filling out the ETA application. If an error is made, you will need to apply again.

Must I have my plane/cruise and hotel booking details ready before I apply?

No this is not necessary. You can apply for an ETA prior to having your plane ticket and accommodation details. Details needed for application include your name, date of birth, country of birth, passport details, and a few other minor details. Sri Lanka eTA visa application is very simple and hassle-free.

What can I do with the Sri Lanka eTA?

The eTA allows visitors to visit Sri Lanka for Tourism/Business purposes and if you are in transit. The eTA will allow you to stay 30 days (2 days for transit). A visitor wishing to stay more than 30 days in Sri Lanka may apply for an extension.

What is needed to successfully apply for an ETA?

1. You must be from a Visa Waiver country.
2. You must have a valid passport.
3. Must provide your details (name, date of birth, address, etc).
4. You must know your arrival date.

Will my ETA be linked with the airline system?

Having an ETA is not required to board the plane or cruise. However, you will need an ETA to enter Sri Lanka. Make sure you print out the eta visa approval email. Keep an extra copy for safekeeping.