Apply for ETA to Sri Lanka for tourists online

Holiday in Sri Lanka - only with ETA

The island state of Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination. Located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, this paradise for travelers in South Asia captivates visitors with its magnificent flora and fauna. To discover the beauty of Sri Lanka, foreign guests must obtain a tourist ETA («Electronic Travel Authorization»). The application for the authorization in English must be completed online in full. As an experienced visa agency, we will gladly take care of obtaining the visa for you. When you enter the country, the border service staff will already have the necessary personal data. You will receive visa confirmation in your passport on the spot.

ETA to Sri Lanka

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Visa requirements in Sri Lanka

All foreign citizens, including German citizens, who plan to have a short stay in Sri Lanka for tourism purposes, are required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) as entry to the country without a visa is not allowed. However, some citizens who do not require a visa may be exempt from this procedure.

If you are planning a trip for purposes other than tourism, such as work or study, you will need a visa of the relevant category. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the visa requirements in advance to ensure that your trip goes smoothly and without any hassle.

ETA not only for tourism

An electronic permit for tourists allows not only visiting the country and its attractions, but also spending hours relaxing on the beach. It also permits the following activities:

Visiting friends and relatives
Receiving treatment and medical assistance
Participating in Ayurveda and Yoga courses
Active participation in sports events, competitions, and cultural activities

Entry requirements for tourists

Immigration authorities of Sri Lanka require the following documents from travelers upon entry into the country:

Passport valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry and with at least 1 blank page
Tickets for return or onward travel
Proof of sufficient funds for stay in the country
Valid ETA entry permit

Validity of ETA in Sri Lanka

The digital entry permit is valid for 6 months from the date of issue and allows for double entry into the country with a maximum stay of 30 days for each entry. The 30-day period (1 month) starts from the day of the first entry.

ETA is linked to the passport you used when applying for the visa. In exceptional cases, the visa can be extended on-site gradually for a maximum of 6 months. The contact points for visa extension are the Department of Immigration and Emigration and the Immigration Visitor Services Centre in Colombo.

Our staff will be happy to assist you in obtaining your tourist permit (ETA) in Sri Lanka. To apply, we need the documents listed below (via email). We wish you a pleasant journey!

Required Documents

Documents for Application

Passport

Proof of Funding

Flight Confirmation

Frequently Asked Questions about ETA in Sri Lanka

What is ETA for Sri Lanka?

ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for entering Sri Lanka is an electronic travel permit that allows foreign citizens to visit the country for short visits. The permit can be obtained online, which is very convenient for travelers. ETA allows staying in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days (with the possibility of extension) and is suitable for various purposes of the trip, including tourism, business trips, and transit. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and information for a successful application.

Is medical insurance required to obtain ETA for Sri Lanka?

Medical insurance is not mandatory to obtain ETA for Sri Lanka, but it is highly recommended to have it during your trip. Having valid travel insurance will help you avoid financial difficulties in case of unexpected medical situations or other unforeseen circumstances. You can get insurance with us, and we will help you choose the optimal option that will ensure peace of mind during your journey! Take care of your safety and comfort during the trip.

How can I apply for ETA for tourism in Sri Lanka?

You can apply for ETA for tourism in Sri Lanka online through the electronic entry permit system or use our assistance. The application process is quite simple and includes several steps: filling out the online form, paying the visa fee, and receiving ETA approval via email.

What documents are required to apply for ETA for tourism?

To apply for ETA for tourism in Sri Lanka, you will need the following documents:

A valid passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of entry.
A recent passport-sized photograph.
Confirmation of travel arrangements, such as a return ticket.
Evidence of financial capability to cover your stay in the country.

Additional documents may be required depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!

Can I extend my tourist ETA in Sri Lanka?

Yes, you can extend your tourist ETA in Sri Lanka. To do this, you need to contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo. It is recommended to apply for an extension in advance to avoid problems with the expiration of your current ETA.

Who needs to apply for a tourist entry permit in Sri Lanka?

A tourist entry permit in Sri Lanka is required for citizens of all countries, including Germany, except for three visa-exempt countries: Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore.

Citizens of 21 countries must obtain a visa at the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in their country of residence in advance.

All other foreign passport holders must apply for an ETA for Sri Lanka online before the trip if they plan to visit the country for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

Can I work in Sri Lanka with a tourist ETA?

No, a tourist ETA in Sri Lanka does not grant the right to work. If you plan to work in the country, you will need to apply for another type of visa, such as a work visa or a residence visa. This requires additional documentation and approval from the relevant authorities. Make sure you have all the necessary documents for legal work!

What happens if my passport expires before my ETA for Sri Lanka?

If your passport expires before the end of your ETA in Sri Lanka, your permit will also become invalid. Since ETA is linked to a specific passport, you will need to apply for a new entry permit with the updated passport before traveling to the country. Make sure all your documents are in order to avoid problems upon entry!

For what reasons might I need a visa instead of ETA?

You may need a visa instead of ETA if you:

are a citizen of a country that requires a pre-arranged visa for entry into Sri Lanka;
plan to stay in Sri Lanka longer than the allowed ETA period (more than 30 days);
are traveling for specific purposes, such as work, study, or volunteer activities, which may require a specific type of visa.