✈️ How to Apply for Your Sri Lanka Tourist Visa: The Simple ETA Guide
The Essential First Step: The Sri Lanka ETA
The vast majority of travelers visiting Sri Lanka for tourism must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to their arrival. The ETA is an official document that grants permission to enter the country for a short visit.
The process is fast, simple, and should always be completed through the official government portal.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Always use the official government website. Avoid third-party websites that charge excessive fees for the same service. Official Website: www.eta.gov.lk
5 Simple Steps to Obtain Your Sri Lanka ETA
The application process is entirely online and usually takes only a few minutes to complete.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before you start, make sure you have the following essentials ready:
Valid Passport: Must be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of your arrival in Sri Lanka.
Confirmed Travel Itinerary: Details of your arrival and confirmed return ticket (you must have a ticket out of Sri Lanka).
Payment Card: A valid Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) or e-commerce enabled Debit Card to pay the fee.
Email Address: A working email address to receive your approval notice.
Step 2: Access the Official ETA Portal
Navigate to the official Sri Lanka ETA website (www.eta.gov.lk).
Select your language and agree to the terms and conditions.
Click “Apply” and select the “Tourist ETA” option.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Carefully fill out the online form with your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport, including:
Full Name and Date of Birth
Passport Number and Issue/Expiry Dates
Purpose of Visit (Tourism/Holiday)
Arrival and Departure Information
Accommodation details (e.g., your first hotel address)
Pro Tip: Double-check your passport number and name. Any discrepancy could lead to delays or refusal of entry upon arrival.
Step 4: Pay the Processing Fee
Pay the required ETA processing fee using your payment card. Fees typically vary based on your nationality and method of submission.
| Method of Submission | SAARC Countries (Approx.) | All Other Countries (Approx.) | Children Under 12 |
| Online ETA (Recommended) | US$ 20 | US$ 50 | FREE |
| On Arrival | US$ 25 | US$ 60 | FREE |
Note: Applying online is always cheaper, faster, and highly recommended over applying upon arrival.
Step 5: Receive and Print Your Approval
After submitting the application and payment, you will receive an acknowledgment notice.
In most cases, you will receive your official ETA approval notification via email within 1-2 working days.
Print this approval notice and carry it with you, along with your passport and return ticket, to present to Immigration Officers upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).
🔑 Key Details About the Tourist ETA
| Detail | Current Rule |
| Initial Validity | 30 days from the date of arrival. |
| Entry Type | Double Entry facility (You can leave and re-enter within the initial 30 days). |
| Extension | Can be extended for up to 6 months (270 days) by applying at the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo after arrival. |
| Exemptions | Citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles are generally exempt from the ETA requirement. |
🛑 What to Present at Immigration
When you land in Sri Lanka, the final documents you must present to the Immigration Officer are:
Your Passport (valid for six months).
Your Confirmed Return Ticket.
Your printed ETA Approval Notice.
(Optional) Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay (rarely requested, but always good practice).
Navigating the visa process is the final administrative hurdle before your amazing Sri Lankan adventure begins. Once you have your ETA, you are ready to explore!
Need help with your travel itinerary after securing your visa?
Contact Theo Lanka Tours today for a custom, stress-free travel plan designed by local experts!