Sri Lanka Visa 2026 Guide: ETA, Fees & Entry Requirements

Updated: August 2026

Planning a holiday in Sri Lanka? Before discovering golden beaches, ancient cities, wildlife parks and the misty hills, it is important to understand Sri Lanka’s latest visa and entry requirements.

For most short-term visitors, the easiest way to enter Sri Lanka is through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. The ETA is an electronic authorization for short visits and is commonly used by tourists visiting Sri Lanka for holidays, sightseeing and other approved tourism purposes.

Do Tourists Need a Visa for Sri Lanka in 2026?

Most foreign visitors travelling to Sri Lanka for tourism need to obtain an ETA before travelling.

A standard tourist ETA allows visitors to stay in Sri Lanka for 30 days and provides a double-entry facility during the initial 30-day period.

However, Sri Lanka introduced an important visa concession in May 2026 that allows tourists from selected countries to obtain their ETA free of charge.

Free Sri Lanka Tourist Visa for 40 Countries

From 25 May 2026, nationals of 40 selected countries can obtain a 30-day Sri Lanka tourist ETA free of charge.

The eligible countries are:

• Australia
• Austria
• Bahrain
• Belarus
• Belgium
• Canada
• China
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• India
• Indonesia
• Iran
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Kuwait
• Malaysia
• Nepal
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Oman
• Pakistan
• Poland
• Qatar
• Russia
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Thailand
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America

Travellers from these countries receive the 30-day tourist ETA without an ETA fee, but they should still complete the ETA process before travelling to Sri Lanka.

Special Arrangements

Sri Lanka also has reciprocal visa arrangements with:

• Singapore – 30 days free
• Seychelles – 30 days free
• Maldives – 90 days free

These travellers are also eligible for a free ETA under the applicable bilateral arrangements.

Sri Lanka Visa for Indian Tourists

Sri Lanka is one of the most convenient international holiday destinations for Indian travellers.

As of 2026, Indian passport holders are included in Sri Lanka’s free tourist ETA scheme. Indian tourists can obtain a tourist ETA free of charge for an initial stay of 30 days.

With short flights connecting Sri Lanka with cities such as Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad, the island is ideal for everything from a quick 3 or 4-day getaway to a longer cultural, wildlife or beach holiday.

Indian visitors should complete the ETA process before departure and travel with the required entry documents.

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Fees

Travellers from countries that are not included in the free ETA scheme are generally required to pay the applicable tourist ETA fee.

Current official tourist ETA fees include:

Children of any nationality under 12 years old are eligible for a free tourist ETA for stays of up to 30 days.

Visa regulations and fees can change, so travellers should always confirm the latest information with Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration before departure.

What Do You Need to Enter Sri Lanka?

Visitors should prepare their travel documents before arriving in Sri Lanka.

Generally, travellers should have:

• A valid passport
• Passport validity of at least six months from the date of arrival
• Approved ETA where required
• Confirmed return or onward travel arrangements
• Details of accommodation in Sri Lanka
• Sufficient funds for the duration of the stay

Sri Lankan immigration states that travellers should hold a passport valid for at least six months from arrival. The official ETA documentation also advises visitors to be prepared to show their return ticket and evidence of sufficient funds when entering the country.

How to Apply for the Sri Lanka ETA

Applying for a Sri Lanka ETA is straightforward.

Step 1 – Visit the Official ETA Website

Use the official Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization website operated by the Department of Immigration and Emigration.

Be careful with unofficial third-party websites that may charge additional processing or service fees.

Step 2 – Enter Your Travel Details

Provide your:

• Passport information
• Personal details
• Nationality
• Intended arrival information
• Purpose of visit

For the standard online ETA process, the official ETA service states that passport copies, photographs and supporting documents are generally not required during the electronic application itself.

Step 3 – Submit the Application

Review your information carefully before submitting the application.

If your nationality is included in the 2026 free tourist visa programme, the applicable tourist ETA fee will be waived.

Step 4 – Receive ETA Approval

Once approved, keep your ETA approval details with your travel documents.

Although the authorization is electronic, carrying a copy of the ETA approval notice is recommended when travelling.

Can You Get a Sri Lanka Visa on Arrival?

Sri Lanka’s official fee schedule continues to list an on-arrival tourist visa/ETA option for certain travellers, with higher fees than applying through the standard ETA process.

However, travellers should not depend on obtaining their visa after landing.

The official ETA guidance states that short-stay travellers should obtain ETA approval before arrival, and travellers benefiting from the current free-visa programme are also instructed to obtain their ETA before travelling.

For a smoother journey, complete your ETA before boarding your flight to Sri Lanka.

Can You Extend a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa?

Yes.

If 30 days simply isn’t enough to explore Sri Lanka, eligible tourists can apply to extend their stay.

Sri Lanka’s immigration authorities allow short-term tourist visas to be extended, potentially reaching a maximum total stay of up to 270 days from the original date of arrival, subject to the applicable extension process, fees and immigration approval.

Tourist visa extensions can be requested through Sri Lanka’s official online visa extension service or through the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Battaramulla.

Always apply for an extension before your existing visa expires.

Sri Lanka Transit Visa

Travellers passing through Sri Lanka may obtain a transit visa for up to two days free of charge, subject to the applicable transit requirements and proof of onward travel.

If you plan to leave the airport and explore Colombo, Negombo or nearby attractions during your stopover, check that your immigration permission allows you to enter Sri Lanka.

What Can You Do on a Tourist ETA?

A Sri Lanka tourist ETA can be used for activities including:

• Holidays and sightseeing
• Visiting friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Ayurvedic and wellness treatments
• Yoga programmes
• Certain sporting activities
• Certain cultural performances

A tourist ETA does not permit employment, paid or unpaid work, self-employment or normal business activities in Sri Lanka.

Business travellers should obtain the appropriate business visa or authorization.

Tips Before Travelling to Sri Lanka

Check your passport validity well before your flight and make sure the information on your ETA matches your passport exactly.

Keep digital and printed copies of your ETA approval, hotel reservations and return flight information.

Avoid unofficial visa websites whenever possible. Using the official Sri Lankan government ETA portal helps prevent unnecessary service charges and application problems.

Most importantly, check the latest immigration requirements shortly before departure, as visa policies can be updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sri Lanka visa-free for Indian tourists in 2026?

Indian nationals are currently eligible for a free 30-day tourist ETA under Sri Lanka’s 40-country visa concession introduced on 25 May 2026. Travellers should still obtain the ETA before travelling.

Is Sri Lanka visa-free for UK tourists?

Yes. United Kingdom passport holders are among the nationalities currently eligible for the free 30-day tourist ETA scheme.

Is Sri Lanka visa-free for US citizens?

United States passport holders are also included in the current 40-country free tourist ETA programme.

How long can tourists stay in Sri Lanka?

The normal tourist ETA provides an initial 30-day stay. Visitors who want to remain longer can apply for an extension, subject to immigration approval and applicable fees.

Does a Sri Lanka tourist visa allow multiple entry?

The standard 30-day tourist ETA provides a double-entry facility within the initial 30-day period.

Do children need a Sri Lanka visa?

Children under 12 years old are currently eligible for a free tourist ETA for stays of up to 30 days. Visa extension fees may apply if they remain longer.

Start Your Sri Lanka Journey with Unlock SL

Once your visa is sorted, it’s time for the exciting part — discovering Sri Lanka.

From the ancient wonders of Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa to the cultural heart of Kandy, the scenic mountains of Ella and Nuwara Eliya, wildlife adventures in Yala and Udawalawe, and the tropical beaches of the south and east coast, Sri Lanka offers unforgettable experiences within one beautiful island.

Unlock SL can help you create a Sri Lanka holiday that matches your travel dates, interests and budget — including private transport, accommodation, sightseeing, wildlife safaris and carefully planned multi-day tours.

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Important: Visa rules, eligibility and fees can change. Always confirm the latest requirements with the official Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration before travelling.