Getting a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa is not a tough task nowadays. You can file for a Sri Lanka visa application online very easily. First, you need to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) by using iVisa’s services. Once you get Sri Lankan ETA then you have all the right to stay and roam in the country for up to 30 days in total.
Before going into the matter in detail we need to discuss the basics: what is an ETA?
An ETA is a document granted online through the web-based visa system, which allows you to get into Sri Lanka. An ETA can be requested by anyone who wants to get into Sri Lankan with the intention of transit visits, tourism (this includes visiting relatives, medical treatment, and taking part in sport or cultural events) and business (including religious events) in Sri Lanka. Nationals from all countries can apply directly online, with the exception of Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Ghana (as of July 2021). Citizens from these countries can apply via a Sri Lankan sponsor for their ETA from the Head Office of the Department of Immigration & Emigration (DI&E) of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
The ETA is mandatory for any person wishing to travel to Sri Lanka. It is valid for one single entry into the country for a maximum stay of 30 days. It can also be used on separate occasions, with a maximum of two entries to the country with a stay of 30 days in total. After getting an ETA you can start the process to plan your trip to Sri Lanka.
Following are the requirements for travelling to Sri Lanka with an e-visa. You will need:
- a passport with a minimum of two blank pages, and valid for at least 6 months after your departure from Sri Lanka.
- a scanned copy of the first and last page of your passport.
- confirmed return flight tickets (inbound and outbound).
- hotel/accommodation confirmation details as you need to be able to submit an address for the whole duration of your stay, even if moving from one place to another (sometimes more than once) during your stay.
With all this in hand, you can apply for your ETA without worries and start thinking about the rest of your trip. But what if you like Sri Lanka so much, you want to stay longer than 30 days?
There are provisions if you want to stay more than 30 days in Sri Lanka. For that, you need to apply for an extension. No stay longer than 30 days is allowed without applying for the extension and all the necessary documents and information needs to be given before the end of the 30 days, so be prepared and think about it beforehand. The short visit visa (standard 30 days given by your ETA) can be extended to a further 90 days once, after completion of the first 90 days from the date of arrival. Be careful with the regulation of the visa rules in order to avoid the risks of Visa Rejection.
Wishing you a happy journey to Sri Lanka!
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.