Frequently Asked Questions
A Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an official document issued electronically that grants authorization to enter and travel within Sri Lanka for short visits. It is required for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
Most foreign nationals traveling to Sri Lanka for short visits (tourism, business, or transit) need an ETA. There are a few exceptions for citizens of Singapore, Maldives, and Seychelles who can obtain a visa on arrival.
The Sri Lanka ETA is valid for 180 days from the date of issue. During this period, you can enter Sri Lanka twice, with each stay not exceeding 30 days.
Standard processing takes 24-48 hours. We also offer rush processing (12 hours) and urgent processing (4 hours) options for those who need their ETA more quickly.
You need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay, a recent digital photograph, a valid email address, and details of your travel itinerary including accommodation and return flight information.
Yes, you can apply for an extension of your visa at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo. Extensions are typically granted for up to 90 additional days for tourists.
If your ETA application is rejected, we will notify you via email. You may reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection, or you can apply for a traditional visa through a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.
Yes, you can apply for ETAs for family members, but each traveler needs a separate application. Children, regardless of age, require their own ETA linked to their passport.
While travel insurance is not mandatory for obtaining an ETA, we strongly recommend having comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage for your entire stay in Sri Lanka.
You can check your application status using the reference number provided in your confirmation email through our online tracking system on our website.
Yes, we recommend printing a copy of your ETA approval to present to immigration officials upon arrival in Sri Lanka, although the ETA is electronically linked to your passport.
We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) and PayPal for ETA application payments.
No, the ETA must be obtained before traveling to Sri Lanka. If you're already in Sri Lanka without a valid visa, you should contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration immediately.
A Tourist ETA is for those visiting Sri Lanka for holiday, sightseeing, or visiting friends and relatives. A Business ETA is for those traveling for business meetings, conferences, or other business-related activities. The Business ETA does not permit employment in Sri Lanka.
No, you cannot modify your ETA application after submission. If you need to change any information, you'll need to apply for a new ETA with the correct details.
Still Have Questions?
If you couldn't find the answer to your question, please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team. We're available 24/7 to assist you with your Sri Lanka ETA application.
