Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)

All foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka for a holiday, a short business trip or transit need an ETA before arrival, including nationals of the 40 countries that receive the tourist ETA free of charge. Sri Lankan missions have announced that the ETA has been mandatory for tourists since 15 October 2025.

Holders of diplomatic, official or service passports travelling on official business, and holders of UN diplomatic or official passports, can obtain a visa without a prior ETA under separate rules.

For nationals of countries outside South Asia that are not on the free list, a tourist ETA (30 days, double entry) costs US$50, a business ETA US$55, and a two-day transit ETA is free. South Asian nationals pay US$20 and US$30. Nationals on the free list pay nothing for a tourist ETA but do pay the business fee. Children under 12 are free. The Department applies a no-refund policy and states that fees and requirements may change at any time.

Most travellers apply online on eta.gov.lk and pay any fee by Visa, Mastercard or American Express; the card is charged as soon as the application is submitted. A travel agent, airline, friend or relative may file and pay on your behalf. You can also submit an application to a Sri Lankan mission abroad, which issues it with DIE approval, usually within three business days, or to the DIE head office in Battaramulla, which is mainly used by Sri Lankan hosts inviting a foreigner.

Applying on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport is a fallback for travellers without prior approval: it costs more (US$60 tourist for non-South Asian nationals), is payable only in US dollars by card or cash, and if the officer refers the case you are refused entry and sent back.

After submission you receive an acknowledgment, followed by an approval notice or a referral notice. If you are referred, contact the DIE or the nearest Sri Lankan mission. Keep a copy of the approval to show at the port of entry. You must enter within three months of the issue date, and the initial stay is 30 days, which can be extended inside the country.

The ETA call centre answers around the clock on +94 71 99 67 888. Sri Lankan embassies and high commissions abroad can also answer questions about ETAs and visas.