Sri Lanka Visa: Entry requirements and pre-travel information for Sri Lanka

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Discover if you need a visa, what your required type is, and how to apply effortlessly with iVisa. Get your travel documents sorted today.

What’s a Sri Lanka Business ETA and who’s it for?

Who’s the Sri Lanka Business ETA for? Business visitors attending meetings, conferences, or seminars in Sri Lanka.

Who isn’t eligible for the Sri Lanka Business ETA? Those seeking employment or long-term business in Sri Lanka, as well as tourists.

What’s the purpose of the Sri Lanka Business ETA? It enables business-related visits, including attending events and short-term training.

How long can you stay with the Sri Lanka Business ETA? Valid for 30 days with extensions of up to six months possible.

What’s a Sri Lanka Tourist ETA and who’s it for?

Who’s the Sri Lanka Tourist ETA for? Tourists from ETA-eligible countries visiting for leisure or to see family.

Who isn’t eligible for the Sri Lanka Tourist ETA? Individuals aiming for business, employment, or long-term stays.

What’s the purpose of the Sri Lanka Tourist ETA? It supports short-term tourism, including sightseeing and medical visits.

How long can you stay with the Sri Lanka Tourist ETA? 30 days from the date of arrival, extendable to six months.

Learn more about the Sri Lanka Business and Tourist ETAs

What’s a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa for?

Travelers from non-ETA eligible countries or those planning longer stays for tourism in Sri Lanka.

Who isn’t eligible for the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa? Individuals seeking to engage in business activities, employment, or permanent residency in Sri Lanka.

What’s the purpose of the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa? Facilitates longer tourism visits, cultural exploration, and visiting relatives beyond the ETA's scope.

How long can you stay with the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa? Typically, it allows stays longer than the ETA, with specific durations depending on the visa type.

We currently do not offer the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa, but you can apply directly through the official [Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration website] (http://www.immigration.gov.lk/pages_e.php?id=14)

What are the Sri Lankan long-term visa options?

Sri Lanka offers various long-term visa options catering to different needs, such as employment, family reunification, retirement, investment, and specific professional activities. Key categories include:

• Employment Visas: For those with job offers in Sri Lanka requiring sponsorship.

• Family Reunion Visas: Aimed at family members of Sri Lankan citizens or residents.

• Retirement Visas: For retirees meeting certain financial conditions to live in Sri Lanka.

• Investment Visas: For substantial investors in Sri Lankan businesses.

• Professional Visas: For experts, academics, or researchers in specific fields.

For detailed information on these visas, please consult the official website of the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration.

Staying healthy in Sri Lanka: Here’s what you need to know

Visiting Sri Lanka requires staying informed on health guidelines for a stress-free journey. Here’s essential advice for travelers:

Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines

• By consulting the Sri Lankan government's health advisories, stay updated on Sri Lanka's COVID-19 protocols, including potential testing or vaccine requirements.

• Vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. For specific recommendations, visit the CDC's Travelers' Health page.

Medical facilities

• Sri Lanka offers reputable medical facilities in urban areas, but rural regions may have limited services.

• Medical costs can be high for tourists; ensure you have comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical expenses.

Health insurance

• Opt for travel insurance with extensive medical coverage, given the high cost of healthcare.

• Confirm your insurance coverage includes medical evacuation and significant medical expenses before departure.

Things to be aware of when visiting Sri Lanka

• Climate: Sri Lanka’s climate varies between coastal and highland areas. Be prepared for humidity in coastal regions and cooler temperatures in the highlands. Monsoon seasons can affect travel plans, so plan accordingly.

Medication for personal use

Bringing medication to Sri Lanka requires adherence to specific guidelines:

• Declare all medications to customs.

• Keep in original packaging and carry them in your hand luggage.

• Carry a prescription or doctor's note in English.

• Verify legal restrictions by contacting the embassy.

• Quantity should match your stay to avoid issues at customs.

Need embassy support?

Need a visa extension or consular help? Your home country's embassy in Sri Lanka is your go-to place for support.

Check our easy Embassies Finder to find your nearest embassy.