Navigating Sri Lanka VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Sri Lanka offers a transparent and traveler-friendly visa system designed to welcome tourists, business visitors, and transit travelers from around the world. The country primarily operates an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which allows eligible foreign nationals to obtain visa approval online before arrival, making the process fast, secure, and convenient. Depending on the purpose of travel, visitors can apply for tourist, business, or transit visas, each with clearly defined validity periods and entry conditions.
Sri Lanka’s visa policies focus on promoting tourism, investment, and international mobility while maintaining strong border security. Applicants are generally required to hold a valid passport, confirmed return ticket, and sufficient funds to support their stay. Visa extensions and long-term residence permits are available for those wishing to stay longer for employment, education, or family purposes. By offering flexible entry options and digital visa services, Sri Lanka continues to strengthen its position as one of South Asia’s most accessible and welcoming travel destinations.
Regulatory Policies
Sri Lanka visa regulations are governed by the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Compliance with these policies is mandatory for all visitors.
Key Regulatory Requirements:
- Passport Validity:Minimum 6 months validity from date of arrival in Sri Lanka
- Proof of Funds:Visitors may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds for their stay (minimum $50 per day)
- Onward Ticket:Proof of departure from Sri Lanka (return or onward ticket) may be required
- Visa Exemptions:Citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles do not require visas for short stays
- Visa on Arrival:Suspended since 2012; all visas must be obtained electronically before travel
- Registration:Foreign nationals staying more than 30 days must register with the Department of Immigration
- Restricted Areas:Special permits required for travel to certain northern and eastern regions
- Yellow Fever:Certificate required if arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission
Prohibited Activities on Tourist/Business Visas:
- Employment or paid work without appropriate work visa
- Journalistic activities without journalist visa
- Volunteer work without proper authorization
- Overstaying visa validity period
Sri Lanka Visa Types
Sri Lanka offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is the primary method for most short-term visits.
Tourist Visa (ETA)
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends/family. Valid for 30 days with double entry. Extendable for up to 6 months.
Processing: 24-48 hours online
Business Visa
For attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities. Valid for 30 days with multiple entry options available.
Required: Invitation letter from Sri Lankan company
Transit Visa
For travelers passing through Sri Lanka to another destination. Valid for 48 hours. Must show confirmed onward ticket.
Note: Not required if staying airside
Residence Visa
For long-term stays including employment, investment, or joining family. Requires approval from Department of Immigration.
Validity: 1-2 years, renewable
Visa Fee Structure
All fees are in USD and subject to change. The following table outlines current visa fees for Sri Lanka (2024).
| Visa Type | Duration | Standard Fee | Express Processing | Extensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA | 30 Days | $50 | $75 (4-hour processing) | $100 for 90 additional days |
| Business ETA | 30 Days | $60 | $85 (4-hour processing) | $150 for 90 additional days |
| Transit Visa | 48 Hours | Free | Not available | Cannot be extended |
| Double Entry Tourist | 30 Days (2 entries) | $75 | $100 (4-hour processing) | $100 for 90 additional days |
| Residence Visa | 1-2 Years | $200-400 | Not available | $200 per renewal |
Important: Visa fees are non-refundable regardless of application outcome. Additional service charges may apply if using third-party agents. Always check the official Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization System for the most current fees.
Travel Policies & Requirements
In addition to visa requirements, travelers to Sri Lanka should be aware of the following policies and recommendations.
Entry Requirements:
- COVID-19 Policies:No vaccination or testing requirements as of 2024 (subject to change)
- Customs Declaration:All currency over $15,000 must be declared upon arrival
- Duty-Free Allowance:3 liters of spirits, 2 bottles of wine, and 250ml of perfume for personal use
- Prohibited Items:Drugs, weapons, pornography, and religious materials offensive to Buddhism
- Pets:Require import permit and veterinary health certificate issued within 7 days of travel
Health & Safety:
- Health Insurance:Highly recommended for all travelers
- Vaccinations:Routine vaccinations plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus recommended
- Malaria:Low risk in most areas; prophylaxis not generally required for Colombo and tourist areas
- Dengue:Use mosquito repellent and take precautions, especially during rainy season
- Travel Advisories:Check your government’s travel advisory before departure
Contact & Support
- Immigration Hotline: +94 11 532 9000
- Email: eta@immigration.gov.lk
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa FAQs
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online travel approval required for short visits to Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Sri Lanka issues Tourist ETA, Business ETA, Transit ETA, and long-term visas for work, study, and residence.
A Tourist ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended up to 180 days after arrival.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Confirmed return ticket
- Hotel booking or host address
- Sufficient funds
The Tourist ETA fee is approximately USD 20–35 depending on nationality. Business ETA costs more.
ETA approval usually takes between 24 to 72 hours. Some applications may take longer if verification is required.
Yes. Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Colombo up to 180 days.
Yes, ETA is available on arrival, but applying online before travel is highly recommended.
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. A valid work visa is required.
- Invalid passport
- Previous overstay
- Security concerns
- Incorrect application details
Note: Sri Lanka visa rules may change. Always check official government sources before applying.