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Just recently, Sri Lanka stopped its usual eVisa process and travelers can now rely solely on the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) method to enter the country. For every tourist, business or transit visitor the understanding of this inkling is very significant. This guide will tackle the frequently asked questions,Sri Lanka eVisa Paused ETA in Effect  give tips, and clarify the various kinds of ETA accessible.

What Are the Different Types of Srilanka ETA Available?

Sri Lanka ETA provides different options based on the travel type:

• Transit ETA – 2 days validity, single entry. Ideal for travelers briefly stopping in Sri Lanka before going to another country. 

• Tourist ETA – 180 days validity, double entry. Appropriate for tourists coming to Sri Lanka.

• ETA for Minors (Under 12) – 180 days validity, double entry. Special permission for children accompanying their parents. 

• Business ETA – 180 days validity, multiple entries. The professional traveler attending meetings, conferences, or corporate events is the main user of it.

How long does it take to get an eTA in Sri Lanka?

The time for processing can be determined by the urgency of the case: 

• Normal Processing: 3-6 working days. 


• Rush Processing: 2-4 working days. 


• Super Rush Processing: 1-2 working days. 

What documents are required for ETA Sri Lanka?

Typically, the following documents are required:

• A valid passport with at least six months validity.


• Travel itinerary or flight bookings.


• Personal identification details.


• Payment method for the ETA application fee.

No additional paperwork is usually required for short-term tourism or transit visits.

How do I apply for a Sri Lanka ETA in 2025?

The whole thing is made to be fast—it normally lasts less than 10 minutes:

1. Visit the portal: Access the official ETA site.


2. Select your language: Pick from English, French, or a few other languages.


3. Fill out the form: Provide your passport details, and travel dates, and indicate the reason for your visit (Tourist/Business).


4. Review: Confirm your passport number! Just one mistake can cause problems with getting in.


5. Payment: Using a credit or debit card, pay the processing fee (unless you're from a country that's exempt from fees).


6. Receive Approval: First, you will receive an acknowledgment email, then your Approval Notice (usually within 24 hours).

Who Needs an ETA for Sri Lanka?

Most visitors traveling to Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or short stays require an ETA before arrival.

• Tourists: Travelers visiting for leisure, sightseeing, or short vacations need an ETA.


• Business Travelers: Those attending meetings, conferences, or official work trips require an ETA.
  Transit Passengers: Some transit travelers may also need an ETA if leaving the airport.


• Exemptions: Citizens from a few countries with visa-free agreements may not need an ETA.


• Recommendation: Always check your nationality and purpose of visit to determine ETA requirements.

Why Was the Sri Lanka eVisa Paused?

• The shift from the conventional ETA system to a new eVisa system (run by VFS Global) caused a stir and legal repercussions in Sri Lanka. The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka gave an interim ruling in August 2024 to stop the new eVisa platform because of issues with transparency and exorbitant service fees for tourists that led to concerns. 


• Consequently, the court instructed the authorities to turn back to the original ETA system that was operated by local providers and was more affordable to users. This "pause" is still ongoing, that is, the complicated eVisa portal is non-functional and the old, easy-to-use ETA is again the one in charge.

Can I Enter Sri Lanka Through Any Airport with an ETA?

If you possess the Sri Lanka ETA, you must pass through certain airports or approved ports. 

• Entry Points: With an ETA, you are allowed to enter Sri Lanka only via international airports that are openly recognized and through certain ports of entry that are specifically defined.


• Airports: The two main airports that are highly frequented are Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo) and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (Hambantota).


• Ports: There are some approved ports for entry where ETA holders are allowed, but not all crossing points are open for such travelers.


• Verify Before Departure: Always check if your entry point is allowed for ETA arrivals so you won't encounter any issues.


• Flexibility in Travel: The travelers with ETA can only go through prescribed or recognized airports; otherwise, if they try to enter through non-prescribed or unauthorized airports, entry may be refused.

Can I Travel to Sri Lanka Without an ETA?

An ETA is a must-have for the majority of tourists and visitors to Sri Lanka.

• No ETA: In most cases, a traveler will not be able to get on a plane to Sri Lanka or foreigner to the country.


• Exemptions: Just a few nationalities can have visa-free access or special travel conditions, based on the agreements with Sri Lanka.


• Airport Entry: Passengers without an ETA at specific airports can be turned away or not allowed to enter.

Tip: It is advisable that you get an ETA before making any travel plans so that you do not face any travel or entry issues.

Can I get an ETA at the airport in Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is still feasible at present to receive an ETA upon arriving at the airport in Sri Lanka, however there are some major caveats that have to be taken into consideration. The government had briefly announced the plan to make pre-arrival ETAs compulsory in October 2025, but the order was cancelled almost immediately. As we move towards late 2024 and 2025, the "On-Arrival" visa facility is still available at BIA (Bandaranaike International Airport).

But, just because it is possible doesn't mean that it is the right choice every time. Below is a comparison of the airport process with the online method:

What is the ETA fee for Sri Lanka?

When applying for a Sri Lanka ETA Fee, it’s important to understand the fee process:

• Required Payment: A fee is necessary to facilitate your ETA application processing. Most of the travelers go through this standard procedure.


• Payment Method: The fee is settled online in the course of the ETA application procedure through a credit or debit card.


• Type of ETA: The amounts chargeable might differ according to the category of ETA applied for such as tourist, business, or transit.


• Processing: The prompt processing of your application with the linking of your passport electronically is guaranteed by the payment of the ETA fee.

Travel Tip: For a hassle-free experience at check-in and during immigration clearance, always have a digital or printed copy of your payment confirmation.

Can you get Sri Lanka ETA on arrival?

Most travelers, in the case of Sri Lanka, should obtain ETA first before coming.

• ETA Overview: ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is necessitated for the majority of foreign travelers who visit the island for reasons like tourism, business, or transit.


• Arrival Option: Previously, a few travelers had the option of obtaining the ETA upon arrival, but the current laws are recommending to apply for ETA before traveling.


• Airport Issuance: ETA on arrival could still be an option in emergencies but it's not guaranteed and may cause delays at the airport.


• Recommendation: It is much better to apply for ETA online before your flight so that you can avoid last-minute issues.


• Validity: ETA is typically valid for a short period and at least a few days before the requested date should be applied.

Can I Renew My Sri Lanka ETA Before It Expires?

Indeed, it is possible to renew or extend your Sri Lanka ETA before it expires in order to remain in the country legally.

• Where to Apply: The renewal procedure takes place at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka.


• Timing: To prevent any fines or penalties, apply before your existing ETA expires.


• Eligibility: Depending on the type of visa you hold, extensions are usually granted for tourism, business, or family visits.


• Required Documents: A passport, an existing ETA, accommodation proof, and sometimes proof of funds are required.


• Maximum Stay: The renewal periods differ, and the total allowed stay is determined by the type of visa and the approval.

Do I need to print a Sri Lanka ETA?

Numerous tourists contemplating a trip to Sri Lanka ponder whether it is necessary to have a hard-bitten ETA. Below is a summary of the key points:

• Digital Option: The Sri Lankan ETA is automatically associated with your passport, meaning that in most cases no hard copy is needed.


• Airline Requirement: There are cases where some airlines may require a printed ETA during check-in, therefore carrying one is a better option.


• Immigration Check: The immigration officers can generally check the ETA online but showing them a printout might accelerate the whole process.

Travel Tip: Keep one on your mobile device or print out a hard copy prior to your journey to prevent any last-minute inconveniences.

How Can I Stay in Sri Lanka Longer Than 30 Days?

In case your stay in Sri Lanka is going to last longer than 30 days, obtaining a visa or ETA extension will be mandatory for you.

• Visa Extension: The Department of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka is the place where you will go for an extension application.


• Eligibility: The reasons for granting extensions include tourism, business, or family visits, and they depend on your visa type.


• Required Documents: You need to submit your passport, current ETA/visa, proof of accommodation, and sometimes proof of funds.


• Processing Time: It’s highly recommended to apply before your current ETA expires in order not to incur penalties or fines.


• Maximum Stay: The maximum stay in total is determined by visa type and approval, generally, it is 90 days for tourists.

Can I enter Sri Lanka with a transit ETA?

Yes, a transit ETA allows you to officially enter Sri Lanka and pass through immigration to leave the airport. This is a perfect solution for travelers with long layovers who want to stretch their legs or explore the city before their next flight.

Here is the quick breakdown of how the transit ETA works:

• Entry is Permitted: Unlike some countries where a transit visa keeps you restricted to the terminal, a Sri Lanka transit ETA allows you to exit the airport and enter the country.


• 48-Hour Limit: This visa is strictly for short stays. It is valid for a maximum of 2 days (48 hours) from the time of your arrival.


• Free of Charge: The transit ETA is  (Free) for almost all nationalities if you apply online. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective way to add a "mini-trip" to your journey.


• Proof of Onward Travel: To be eligible, you must have a confirmed onward flight ticket to a third destination. You cannot use a transit ETA if Sri Lanka is your final stop or if you are returning to the country you just came from.


• Non-Extendable: You cannot extend a transit ETA. If you decide you want to stay longer than 48 hours, you must apply for a standard 30-day Tourist ETA and pay the applicable fee.


• When It’s NOT Needed: If you are staying inside the airport transit lounge and not passing through immigration to enter the city, you do not need any ETA at all.

Can I apply for a Sri Lanka ETA from another country?

Yes, you can apply for a Sri Lanka ETA from absolutely anywhere in the world. Since the system is entirely digital, your physical location does not restrict your ability to get travel clearance.

Here are the key points to keep in mind if you are applying while away from home:

• 100% Online Process: You do not need to visit an embassy or be in your home country. As long as you have an internet connection, you can complete the application from a laptop or smartphone.


• No Physical Documents Needed: You aren't required to mail your passport anywhere. The "Electronic" nature of the ETA means it is digitally linked to your passport number in the Sri Lankan immigration database.


• Universal Payment: You can pay the processing fee using any international credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express), regardless of which country the card was issued in.


• Email Delivery: Your approval notice is sent directly to your email. You can simply print it out at your current hotel or local print shop, or even just keep a digital copy on your phone to show at the airport.


• Apply During Your Travels: If you are currently on a multi-country tour (e.g., traveling through Southeast Asia) and decide to add Sri Lanka to your itinerary, you can apply and usually receive approval within 24 hours while on the move.


• Third-Party Option: If you are having trouble with internet access or payments abroad, a friend or a travel agent in any other country can also submit the application on your behalf.

Is it mandatory to have travel insurance for Sri Lanka?

Travel insurance before the journey to Sri Lanka is a common question among the tourists. Here are the facts:

• Not Compulsory: One can enter Sri Lanka without insurance although it is not a requirement.


• Highly Recommended: The insurance is a must to take care of the medical emergencies, trip interruptions, or loss of belongings.


• Peace of Mind: Imagine the scenario where an insurance company is paying for all your health-related issues abroad.


• Travel Tip: It’s indeed a very good choice to have insurance, although not compulsory, for an unstressful and safe trip.

What is the Sri Lanka payment method?

When applying for a Sri Lanka ETA or making payments during your trip, it’s useful to know the available methods:

• Online Payment for ETA: Payments for ETA are made online during the application process using credit or debit cards.


• Accepted Cards: Most major international cards like Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express are accepted.


• Other Travel Payments: While in Sri Lanka, cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) is widely used for small purchases. Many hotels, restaurants, and shops also accept credit/debit cards.


• Digital Wallets: Some services and hotels may accept digital payments or mobile banking, but it’s safer to have a mix of cash and cards.


• Travel Tip: Ensure your card is activated for international transactions to avoid any issues while paying online or locally.
  

What is the best currency to carry to Sri Lanka?

When you go to Sri Lanka, the choice of currency can significantly ease your trip. Here are some points to think about: 

• Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR): The Sri Lankan Rupee is the currency used in Sri Lanka. It’s a good idea to have some LKR cash for small purchases, taxis, and markets. 


• US Dollars (USD): The USD is the most widely accepted foreign currency in Sri Lanka, and it can be used in many hotels, tour operators, and shops. 


• Other Major Currencies: Euros (EUR) and British pounds (GBP) are also convertible in the country and can be used in the main tourist areas. 


• Currency Exchange: The money can be exchanged in banks, airports, and authorized exchange centers in Sri Lanka. 

Travel Tip: Use a combination of cash and cards, and do not carry large amounts of foreign currency in busy areas.

Which SIM to take in Sri Lanka?

When you select the right SIM card, it becomes very simple to maintain communication while traveling in Sri Lanka. Here are the essential things that you need to know:

• Major Providers: Dialog, Mobitel, Airtel, and Hutch are the dominant operators in the Sri Lankan mobile market.


• Tourist SIMs: Data and local calling packages are generally included in the tourist SIM cards offered by most service providers. They are typically inexpensive and very simple to set up.


• Where to Buy: At the airports, SIM cards are available at the official stores or authorized kiosks in the cities.


• Activation: The passport is often the only requirement for the quick activation.


• Travel Tip: Check different data packages and coverage areas before making a purchase. Generally, the best nationwide coverage is provided by Dialog and Mobitel even in the outskirts.

What are the adventure activities in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is not only known for its stunning beaches and ancient temples but also for being an awesome adventure destination. Here are the activities that you can take part in, the most thrilling ones, to start with:

• Surfing: The southern and eastern beaches, including Arugam Bay and Hikkaduwa, attract many surfers.


• Hiking & Trekking: Visit the beautiful and high Ella Rock, Horton Plains, and Adam’s Peak to see the scenic trails and get the views down.


• Wildlife Safaris: Elephants, leopards, and lovely birds are among the animals to watch on a Yala or Udawalawe National Park safari.


• White Water Rafting: Experience rafting and the Kithulgala River is perfect for extreme riding.


• Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Look for colorful corals and fish at Trincomalee and Pigeon Island.


• Adventure Sports: Participate in zip-lining, mountain biking, and rock climbing in several recreational and hilly areas.

Conclusion

The suspension of Sri Lanka’s conventional eVisa system has put the ETA system at the forefront for entry. It is very important to know about the different types of ETA, their processing times and the requirements before making a decision on travel for any purpose whether it be leisure, business or simply passing through. Applying over the internet is a user-friendly process, and if you have all the necessary documents ready, you will enjoy a smooth experience.

This guide acts as a companion for travelers to confidently walk through the Sri Lanka ETA system, dodge traps often encountered, and to have a relaxed trip.