Sri Lanka Visa & ETA Guide

Everything you need to know about visiting Sri Lanka. Find visa requirements, ETA costs, and application guides specific to your nationality.

Sri Lanka ETA at a Glance

ETA Required

Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) costing $50 USD for a 30-day stay.

SAARC Discount

SAARC nations (India, etc.) pay a reduced tourist ETA rate of just $20 USD. Transit and children under 12 are free.

Quick Processing

ETAs are processed within 24-72 hours. Apply online at eta.gov.lk at least 7 days before travel.

Popular Countries

🇺🇸

United States

American Citizens

ETA Required

Sri Lanka has become an increasingly popular destination for American travelers seeking a mix of ancient culture, tropical beaches, and wildlife adventures. As a US passport holder...

$50 USD
30 days
24-72 hours
🇬🇧

United Kingdom

British Citizens

ETA Required

Sri Lanka has long been a favourite destination for British travelers, thanks to historical ties, direct flight connections, and the island's incredible diversity of experiences. A...

$50 USD
30 days
24-72 hours
🇦🇺

Australia

Australian Citizens

ETA Required

Sri Lanka is a natural travel choice for Australians, sitting just a relatively short flight away compared to European destinations and offering a tropical experience that feels bo...

$50 USD
30 days
24-72 hours
🇮🇳

India

Indian Citizens

ETA Required

Sri Lanka and India share deep historical, cultural, and religious ties that date back thousands of years, and today the island nation remains one of the most popular and accessibl...

$20 USD
30 days
24-72 hours
🇸🇬

Singapore

Singaporean Citizens

ETA Required

Sri Lanka is an excellent short-haul destination for Singaporean travelers, offering a completely different tropical experience with ancient culture, wildlife safaris, and misty hi...

$50 USD
30 days
24-72 hours

United Arab Emirates

Emirati Citizens

ETA Required

Sri Lanka is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Emirati travelers seeking a tropical getaway that combines rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and lush hill cou...

$50 USD
30 days
24-72 hours

SAARC Discounted Rate

SAARC member nations pay a reduced ETA rate of $20 USD for tourist visas.

All Country Guides

Complete visa and ETA information for travelers from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?

Most visitors to Sri Lanka need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The ETA can be obtained online at eta.gov.lk before travel. The tourist ETA costs $50 USD for most nationalities, while SAARC nations like India pay a reduced rate of $20 USD.

How much does the Sri Lanka ETA cost?

The tourist ETA costs $50 USD for most nationalities (double entry, 30 days). SAARC countries like India pay $20 USD. Business ETAs cost $55 USD ($30 for SAARC). Transit ETAs (under 48 hours) and children under 12 are free for all nationalities.

How long can I stay in Sri Lanka with an ETA?

The standard tourist ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days from the date of arrival. This can be extended to a maximum of 90 days at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo for approximately $25 USD.

What documents do I need to enter Sri Lanka?

You need a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity), an approved ETA, a return or onward flight ticket, proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only if arriving from an endemic area.