Are you dreaming of swapping the hills of Burundi for the golden beaches of Bentota or the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya? Sri Lanka is becoming a top destination for travelers from East Africa. However, before you pack your bags, there is one essential document you need: the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
In this guide, we will walk you through every detail of the application process, costs, and requirements to ensure your trip starts smoothly. Apply Sri Lanka eTA from Burundi easily with clear steps, simple documentation, and helpful tips designed to make your travel planning stress-free and efficient.
Do Burundian Citizens Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes, citizens of Burundi must obtain a travel authorization before entering Sri Lanka. Since 2012, the Sri Lankan government has replaced the traditional "sticker visa" with the eTA. This is an official digital permit that allows you to enter the country for tourism, business, or transit. You do not need to visit an embassy; the entire process happens online.
How Do I Apply for a Sri Lanka eTA from Burundi?
Applying from Bujumbura or Gitega is simple. You only need a device with internet access. Follow these steps:
- Select the Category: Choose Tourist, Business, or Transit.
- Fill in Personal Data: Enter your name, date of birth, and occupation.
- Passport Details: Carefully type your passport number and expiry date.
- Payment: Pay the processing fee using a credit or debit card.
- Check Email: You will receive an acknowledgment first, followed by the approval.
What are the Sri Lanka eTA Requirements for Burundian Passports?
The paperwork is minimal, making it one of the easiest visas to get. To meet Sri Lanka ETA Requirements, applicants only need a valid passport, an active email address, and a debit or credit card for online payment.
- A Valid Passport: It must have 6 months of validity remaining from the day you land in Colombo.
- Valid Email: This is where your approval letter will be sent.
- Payment Method: A Mastercard, Visa, or American Express card for the fee.
- Return Ticket: You asked to show proof of a flight back to Burundi or an onward destination.
What are the Different Types of Sri Lanka eTAs?
Choosing the right "Entry Type" is crucial. Here is a breakdown of your options:
ETA Type | Number of Entries | Stay Duration | Best For |
Tourist ETA | Double Entry | 30 Days | Sightseeing, visiting family, or yoga retreats. |
Business ETA | Multiple Entry | 30 Days | Meetings, conferences, or trade negotiations. |
Transit ETA | Single Entry | 2 Days | Layovers while traveling to another country. |
Minor ETA | Double Entry | 30 Days | Children under 12 years old. |
How Long is the Processing Time for a Sri Lanka eTA?
You can choose a processing speed based on your urgency:
- Standard Processing: 3 - 6 Working Days. (Most affordable).
- Rush Processing: 2 - 4 Working Days. (For those traveling next week).
- Super Rush Processing: 1 - 2 Working Days. (For emergency travel).
Can I Get a Sri Lanka Visa on Arrival at the Airport?
While there is a "Visa on Arrival" counter at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), it is not recommended. The fee is higher ( $60 USD), and the queues can be several hours long. Some airlines may even refuse to board you in Burundi if you don't have a pre-approved eTA.
What is a "Double Entry" Tourist eTA?
A unique feature of the Sri Lankan Tourist eTA is the Double Entry. This means that within your 30-day stay, you can leave Sri Lanka (perhaps for a quick trip to the Maldives) and come back in without paying for a new visa, as long as it is within the original 30-day window.
Is the eTA Different for Children Traveling from Burundi?
Yes. If you are traveling with children under 12, they still need an eTA. However, the Sri Lankan government encourages family travel by waiving the visa fee for minors. You must still fill out a separate application for each child, but the "Total Cost" at the end will be $0 for their portion of the government fee.
How Long is the Sri Lanka eTA Valid for Use?
Once your eTA is approved, you have 180 days (6 months) to use it to enter Sri Lanka. Once you enter the country, the 30-day countdown of your stay begins.
How Much Does the Sri Lanka eTA Cost for Burundi Citizens?
The Sri Lanka ETA fees depend on the visa type and processing speed you select. Tourist and business applicants pay different government charges, while faster services include extra handling costs. Transit ETA options are usually free or carry minimal Sri Lanka ETA fees.
- Tourist eTA: Generally costs around $50 USD for the government fee.
- Transit eTA: This is free if you are staying for less than 48 hours, though a small processing fee may apply if using a service provider.
- Minors: Children under 12 are exempt from the government visa fee!
What Should I Do if My eTA Application is Pending?
If you haven't received your approval within the standard time, check your Spam/Junk folder. If it’s not there, you can check your status on the official website using your Confirmation Code. Most delays are caused by small typos in the passport number.
Can I Extend My 30-Day Stay in Sri Lanka?
If you fall in love with the island and want to stay longer, you can! You must apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo. You can extend your stay for up to 90 days initially, and eventually up to 6 months.
Do I Need to Print My eTA Approval?
While the eTA is electronically linked to your passport, it is a very good idea to print a physical copy. System outages or slow internet at immigration counters can happen. Having a piece of paper in your hand makes the process much faster.
What are the Entry Requirements Upon Arrival in Colombo?
When you land, have the following ready for the immigration officer:
- Your Burundi Passport.
- A printed copy of your eTA approval.
- Proof of sufficient funds (a bank statement or credit card).
- A confirmed return flight ticket to Burundi.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Name Mismatch: Ensure the name on the eTA matches your passport exactly (don't forget middle names).
- Passport Expiry: If your passport expires in 5 months, your eTA will be rejected. Renew your passport first.
- Wrong Visa Type: Don't apply for a Tourist eTA if you are going for a business meeting; the immigration officer might ask for your invitation letter.
Final Thoughts for Burundian Travelers
Getting your Sri Lanka eTA is the smallest part of your journey, but it’s the most important.
By choosing the right processing time and double-checking your details, you'll be sipping Ceylon tea in no time!
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