Sri Lanka Visa Requirements 2026 — ETA USD 20, Double Entry & Documents
| Key Facts 2026 | |
|---|---|
| ETA fee (tourist) | USD 20 — eta.gov.lk |
| ETA stay | 30 days, double entry |
| ETA processing | 24–72 hours |
| Passport validity | Minimum 6 months beyond stay |
| Photo requirement | Passport-size digital photo — white background |
| Entry points | All international airports, Colombo port |
| Extension possible | Yes — Department of Immigration Colombo |
Overview of Sri Lanka Entry Requirements 2026
Sri Lanka uses an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for most nationalities. The ETA costs USD 20 for tourists and is applied for online at eta.gov.lk. It grants a 30-day double-entry stay, meaning you can leave and re-enter Sri Lanka once within the validity period. Processing takes 24–72 hours. Some nationalities (citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and a few others) receive free or reduced-fee ETA. Citizens of India receive a separate treatment — check the ETA portal for current rules.
Documents Checklist for Sri Lanka ETA 2026
- Valid passport — minimum 6 months from planned departure date
- Digital passport-style photo (white background)
- Completed ETA application at eta.gov.lk
- USD 20 payment by credit or debit card
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel booking or accommodation address
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Sufficient funds for the stay
Eligibility & Special Arrangements
Citizens of most countries can apply for an ETA at eta.gov.lk. Some SAARC nationals and ASEAN countries have special bilateral arrangements that may offer free ETAs or different conditions. Chinese citizens receive a free ETA under a mutual visa-waiver scheme. Always verify the latest eligibility and fee at eta.gov.lk as policies are updated. Visitors with a criminal record may be refused entry; declare any issues honestly on the application.
How to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA
Visit eta.gov.lk, select the tourist ETA, fill in your personal and passport details, upload a photo, answer health and security declarations, and pay USD 20. Processing takes 24–72 hours, after which you receive the ETA approval by email. Print the approval or save it digitally to present at immigration. The ETA is linked to your passport number — do not change passports between application and travel.