Sri Lanka Visa & Entry Requirements Guide 2026
Sri Lanka visa guide 2026: who needs an ETA, the free tourist visa scheme for 40 nationalities, how to apply, fees, and processing time.
Sri Lanka Visa & Entry Requirements Guide 2026
Nearly all international travelers visiting Sri Lanka must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival — it’s an online pre-approval, not a passport stamp, and it’s checked at immigration when you land. As of May 25, 2026, citizens of 40 countries can get the tourist ETA completely free for a 30-day stay.
Quick Facts
- What you need: An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), applied for online before you fly
- Free ETA: Available for 40 eligible nationalities since May 25, 2026 (still requires applying — “free” doesn’t mean “skip it”)
- Standard tourist ETA: Allows a 30-day stay with double entry; extendable up to 90 additional days via the Department of Immigration in Colombo
- Where to apply: Only the official government portal — third-party sites often overcharge
- Processing time: Typically 24–72 hours; apply at least a few days before travel, ideally a week ahead
- Passport requirement: Valid at least 6 months beyond your arrival date
How to Apply
Apply online through Sri Lanka’s official ETA portal, selecting “Tourist ETA” for leisure travel. You’ll need passport details, your itinerary, and accommodation contact information. Payment (where applicable — free for the 40 eligible nationalities) is processed through the government gateway, and approval typically arrives by email within 24–72 hours. Print or save the approval to show at immigration on arrival.
Watch out for: unofficial third-party websites that mimic the government portal and charge inflated service fees — only use the official .gov.lk ETA site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka in 2026? A: Almost all foreign visitors need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), applied for online before arrival — it functions as your visa approval.
Q: Is the Sri Lanka ETA really free? A: For 40 eligible nationalities, yes, as of May 25, 2026 — but you still must apply for it before travel; free means no fee, not no application.
Q: How long can I stay in Sri Lanka on a tourist ETA? A: 30 days initially, extendable up to 90 additional days by applying at the Department of Immigration in Colombo before your ETA expires.
Q: How far in advance should I apply for my ETA? A: At least a few days before departure; approvals typically take 24–72 hours, so applying about a week ahead gives a safety margin.