Sri Lanka Visa Guide: ETA, On-Arrival Visas & Extensions Explained
Travelling to Sri Lanka is exciting from tea-covered hills to shimmering beaches but nothing kills momentum like a hold-up at immigration. This guide walks you through the visa realities for visitors: who needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), how to apply, what to expect on arrival, how to extend your stay, and practical tips to keep your trip smooth. Read on and get prepared so your Sri Lankan story starts the moment you land.
Who Needs a Visa?
Most foreign nationals require a visa or an ETA to enter Sri Lanka for tourism. A small number of nationalities may have visa exemptions or temporary fee waivers under government initiatives always check the official Department of Immigration site before you travel, as policies change.
What is an ETA and Why Use it?
An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is the fast, online way most tourists secure permission to enter Sri Lanka. It’s linked electronically to your passport and usually processed quickly after submission. Applying online before you fly saves time, avoids higher on-arrival fees, and usually gets you through immigration far faster than waiting to apply at the airport.
Why Apply Online?
- Cheaper than visa-on-arrival (VOA)
- Less chance of delays or refusal at the gate
- You can print confirmation and travel with peace of mind
How to Apply - Step By Step
- Gather documents: valid passport (minimum 6 months remaining), travel dates, return / onward ticket, and a credit/debit card for payment.
- Visit the official ETA portal: complete the online form with your personal and travel details. (Avoid third-party sites that add big fees.)
- Pay the fee: submit payment and wait for the ETA approval (often minutes to a few hours).
- Save the confirmation: the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, but keep a printed or digital copy in case immigration asks.
- Bring supporting papers: sometimes officers ask for proof of funds or booking details — have them handy.
Fees & Visa on Arrival
Fees and categories change from time to time. In general:
- Applying for the ETA online is usually the most economical route.
- Visa-on-arrival is available but typically costs more and can mean longer waits.
- If you need to buy a visa at the airport, expect to queue and pay higher VOA charges than the online ETA.
Arrival at the Airport, What to Expect
On arrival you’ll usually follow this flow:
- Passport control / immigration (present passport + ETA confirmation)
- Baggage claim
- Customs
- Exit into arrivals hall
Keep documents accessible (boarding pass, passport, ETA). Immigration officers may ask where you’ll stay and how long you plan to remain. A polite, clear answer and your hotel booking or contact details will help.
If You Land Without an ETA?
If you arrive without an ETA, many airports provide a visa-on-arrival service. Expect:
- Longer lines than ETA pre-clearance
- Additional paperwork or payment
- The possibility of being asked to buy a return ticket or prove funds
It’s a safety net, not the best plan, pre-apply.
Extending Your Stay. What to Know.
If you want to stay beyond your ETA period, you can apply for an extension through the Department of Immigration while in Sri Lanka. Extensions are discretionary and typically require:
- A valid passport
- A written application and reason for extension
- Payment of extension fees
Apply before your current permission expires to avoid fines or complications. For longer stays (work, study, residency), separate visa categories apply and usually require embassy contact and more documentation.
Other Visa Types
- Business visas: for meetings, conferences or paid work usually need invitation letters and company documents.
- Student visas: require admission or enrollment documentation from a Sri Lankan educational institution.
- Work & residence visas: require employer sponsorship, official permits and typically a longer processing timeline.
Always contact the nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate if you plan any activity beyond tourism.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visa Experience
- Apply early: give yourself at least a week buffer for ETA processing problems.
- Use the official ETA portal: avoid middlemen who overcharge.
- Keep copies: passport photo page, ETA approval, accommodation and flight bookings.
- Check passport validity: many countries require 6+ months of passport validity.
- Have local contact details: a hotel address or local host helps at immigration.
- Plan for the unexpected: have a small contingency budget for any visa fees or extension costs.
Common Questions
Can I get a visa on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport?
Yes, but it is pricier and slower than a pre-approved ETA. If possible, secure your ETA before departure.
How long is the ETA valid?
Validity periods vary by visa type and nationality. Your ETA will specify entry windows and permitted length of stay. If you need extra time, apply for an extension well before expiry.
Are there fee waivers or free-visa programs?
Governments sometimes introduce temporary fee waivers or pilot programs for certain nationalities. These are time-limited and change often — check official sources before you travel.
What happens if my ETA is refused?
If your ETA is refused, the decision letter will usually explain next steps. You may be able to reapply with corrected information or contact the nearest Sri Lankan embassy for guidance.
Final Checklist Before You Fly
- Passport valid at least 6 months
- ETA confirmation printed/digital
- Hotel booking or local address
- Return / onward ticket
- Sufficient funds (card/cash)
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Getting your Sri Lanka visa in order is simple if you plan ahead. Apply for the ETA online, bring the right documents, and keep the few contingency tips above in mind. Do that and you’ll move from plane to palm-fringed beach (or misty tea trail) with minimal fuss ready to start your Sri Lankan story.