Sri Lanka Tourist Visa 2026: ETA Rules, Fees, and Simple Application Guide
If you’re traveling to Sri Lanka in 2025, getting your visa sorted early is essential. The country uses an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, and recent changes mean every short-term visitor must apply online before departure.
This guide explains who needs an ETA, how much it costs, which countries are exempt from fees, and how to apply in just a few minutes.
New Rule You Shouldn’t Ignore
Starting 15 October 2025, Sri Lanka requires all short-stay travelers visiting for tourism or business to hold an approved ETA before flying.
Visa on arrival is no longer something you can rely on. Travelers without an ETA risk being stopped at check-in or refused entry on arrival.
To avoid extra charges or scams, always use the official government website: eta.gov.lk.
The Basics at a Glance
- ETA must be applied for online before travel
- Tourist ETA allows a 30-day stay with two entries
- Visa fee depends on your nationality
- Children under 12 are not charged
- Some nationalities receive a fee waiver, but still must apply
- Tourist visas can be extended up to 270 days
- Arrival cards can be completed online or on arrival
Who Needs to Pay and Who Gets a Fee Waiver
Every traveler must submit an ETA application, even if no payment is required.
Nationalities Eligible for a Fee-Free Tourist ETA
Under reciprocal or bilateral agreements
- Seychelles
- Maldives
- Singapore
Under the current visa-waiver program
- China
- India
- Russia
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Japan
Applicants from these countries will see a US$0 fee during checkout on the official ETA website.
All Other Passport Holders
Travelers from countries not listed above must pay the standard ETA fee during the online application process.
Sri Lanka Tourist ETA Fees and Validity
| Visa Type | Fee | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA – SAARC nationals | US $20 | 30 days, double entry |
| Tourist ETA – Other nationals | US $50 | 30 days, double entry |
| Children under 12 | Free | 30 days, double entry |
| Fee-waiver countries | Free | 30 days, double entry |
Bank or card processing charges may apply. Always confirm fees on eta.gov.lk before payment.
How to Apply for a Sri Lanka ETA
The entire process usually takes less than five minutes.
- Visit eta.gov.lk
- Fill out the online ETA application
- Pay the applicable visa fee (if required)
- Receive your ETA approval by email and save a copy
No embassy visits or physical paperwork are needed.
When traveling, make sure you have
- A passport valid for at least six months
- ETA approval confirmation
- Proof of return or onward travel
Arrival Card Information
Sri Lanka offers an electronic arrival card that can be completed online shortly before departure. This step is optional.
If you prefer, you can fill out the traditional paper arrival card once you land. Both options are accepted by immigration officials.
Extending Your Stay in Sri Lanka
If 30 days isn’t enough, you can apply to extend your tourist visa for a total stay of up to 270 days, subject to approval:
- Initial ETA: 30 days
- First extension: 60 days
- Second extension: 90 days
- Third extension: 90 days
Extensions can be requested online or in person at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Battaramulla.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The fee is waived, but the application is still mandatory.
No. From 15 October 2025, all short-term visitors must secure an ETA before traveling.
Most applications are approved within minutes, though it can take up to 24 hours. Applying early is recommended, especially during busy travel seasons.
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