🛂 What is the Sri Lanka ETA?
The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is Sri Lanka’s tourist visa system. Most visitors must obtain one before arrival. It grants a 30-day stay with double entry and can be extended once in the country.
🛂 Who gets a free ETA in 2026?
With effect from 25 May 2026, nationals of 40 countries receive the tourist ETA free of charge (30 days, double entry). The list covers nine of Sri Lanka’s ten biggest visitor markets and includes:
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, UAE, the United Kingdom and the United States.
In addition, Singapore, Seychelles and the Maldives have their own visa-free arrangements, and children under 12 of any nationality receive a free ETA.
✨ Important: free still means you must apply
This is the single most misunderstood point. The fee has been waived, not the requirement. You still need to complete the online ETA application and receive approval before you fly. Arriving without one can mean delays or being turned away.
💰 Fees for everyone else
| Nationality | Online | On arrival |
|---|---|---|
| South Asian — tourist | USD 20 | USD 25 |
| All other countries — tourist | USD 50 | USD 60 |
Business ETAs cost slightly more. Extensions beyond 30 days are charged separately.
🛂 How to apply for the Sri Lanka ETA
- Go to the official government site only: eta.gov.lk.
- Complete the online form with your passport details and travel dates.
- Pay the fee if applicable (free for the 40 nationalities above).
- Receive your ETA approval by email — carry a printed or digital copy.
🛂 Beware of copycat visa websites
Many unofficial websites rank above the real one in search results and charge large “service fees” on top of the government cost — or on top of a free ETA. Only use eta.gov.lk. If a site charges you USD 50–100 for a visa your nationality gets free, it is not the official one. This is the single easiest way to waste money on a Sri Lanka trip.
🛂 Other entry essentials
- Passport validity: at least six months beyond your arrival date.
- Onward ticket: proof of onward or return travel may be requested.
- Stay length: 30 days standard; extensions available in-country for a fee.
✈️ Planning your trip
With the visa sorted, the fun part is planning where to go. See our best time to visit guide, our 10-day itinerary, or browse our Sri Lanka tour packages. Questions about entry or planning? Contact us — we help visitors from all over the world every week.
Visa rules can change. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official site, eta.gov.lk, before you travel.
Let us build a private, tailor-made itinerary around your dates, pace and budget — with your own local chauffeur-guide.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sri Lanka visa-free in 2026?
For 40 nationalities, the tourist ETA is free of charge, but it is not strictly “visa-free” — you still must apply for and hold an approved ETA before travel. The fee is waived, not the requirement.
How long does the Sri Lanka ETA take?
Online approvals are often issued within a day, sometimes within hours, but apply at least a few days ahead to be safe. Carry a copy of the approval when you fly.
How long can I stay in Sri Lanka on a tourist ETA?
30 days, with double entry. You can extend your stay in-country for a fee if you want longer.
Which website is the official Sri Lanka visa site?
Only eta.gov.lk. Avoid third-party sites that charge extra fees — several rank above the official one in search results.
Do children need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Children still need an ETA, but those under 12 of any nationality receive it free of charge. Apply for them on the same official site.