Sri Lanka Visa - How To Apply
Last Updated : 10 Oct 2023
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30-Second Summary
UAE citizens need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka.
You can apply for an ETA online.
UAE residents must apply based on their nationality.
You don't have to upload any travel documents during the application.
You can extend your ETA before it expires.
Important Information
— Is A Visa Required?
— Sri Lanka ETA Cost
— Sri Lanka ETA Processing Time
— Lenght Of Stay
— Sri Lank Visa Validity
Do UAE Citizens Need A Visa For Sri Lanka?
Yes, you do. If you’re a citizen of the UAE you must apply for a Sri Lanka visa before traveling. Luckily, you can apply for a ETA visa for Sri Lanka, also known as the electronic travel authorization.
Is There A Sri Lanka Visa For UAE Residents?
No, there is no Sri Lanka visa for UAE residents. This means that you must apply for your visa based on your nationality.
What Is The Sri Lanka ETA?
The electronic travel authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a short visit to Sri Lanka. The authorization is issued electronically and you can apply for it online. The ETA only allows you to travel for tourism, transit, or a short business visit.
What Are The Required Documents For The ETA?
You don’t need to upload any documents during your application. However, you can keep documents like your passport and flight tickets on hand. This will help you with the information you must provide.
How To Apply For A Sri Lanka ETA?
You can follow this in depth step-by-step guide to apply for your Sri Lanka eta:
Step 1: Access The Sri Lanka ETA Website
You’ll see a bar near the middle of the page with 5 different headings. Click on “Apply” (one of the headings).
This will open a new page with the Terms and Conditions. Read through it and click “I Agree.”
Step 2: Choose How You’re Applying
There are three options available:
Apply for an individual.
Apply for a group.
Apply for a third party.
Choose the type that applies to you. You can also apply for the business ETA if your purpose of travel is business.
Step 3: Complete The Application Form
The application form is divided into sections:
Applicant information: Enter your name, surname, date of birth, gender, nationality, passport number, etc.
Child information in parent’s passport: You only need to complete this section if it applies to you.
Travel Information: Enter your intended arrival date, purpose of visit, port of departure, flight number, etc.
Contact details: Enter your address, address in Sri Lanka, email address, phone number, etc.
Declaration: Answer a few questions truthfully.
Step 4: Review Your Application
This step is very important. Make sure you double-check every piece of information provided. If you submit your application with any incorrect details, your ETA will be rejected.
Step 5: Pay The Fee And Submit Your Application
You can pay the visa fee online through the portal. Only Visa, Master and American Express Cards are accepted. If you are unable to pay by electronic payment cards (credit card/e-commerce enabled debit cards), you have to select one of the alternative options.
Once you paid the visa fee you can submit your application.
What Does An ETA Look Like?
Here’s an example of what your ETA will look like:
How To Check My ETA Status?
To check your status go to the Sri Lanka ETA website and follow these steps:
Click on “Check Status.”
Enter your confirmation code, passport number, and your nationality.
Click “Check Status.”
Your visa status will show on the next page.
What Happens When I Arrive In Sri Lanka?
Once you get off your flight in Sri Lanka go to the immigration desks. You must submit your passport and original ETA. Then, you’ll receive your valid visa which you can use to enter the country.
Everything You Need To Know About The Sri Lanka ETA
What Is The ETA Visa For Sri Lanka Cost?
According to the Sri Lanka ETA websites the revised fees are USD 50 for a 30 day, double entry visa. The visa fee is non refundable.
How Long Does It Take To Process An ETA?
The Sri Lanka tourist visa processing time is around 3 business days. The processing time does not include the day you submit your application, weekends, or public holidays.
What Is The Validity Of The Sri Lanka ETA?
The visa is valid for 30 days from your date of arrival. You must extend your visa if you wish to stay longer.
Can I Extend My ETA Visa For Sri Lanka?
Yes, you can extend your Sri Lanka e visa for an additional 6 months. You can apply for your visa extension through the Immigration Service Centre Website.
That’s It!
Now you know everything you need to know about getting a visa for Sri Lanka. If you have any more questions, you can check our FAQ section.
Government Sources
We only want to provide you with the most up to date information. As such, we use government websites as our source of information. The information in this post from sources like:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sri Lanka ETA the same as a visa?
No, it’s not. The ETA is only a travel authorization. You’ll receive your actual visa once you’re in Sri Lanka.
Where can UAE citizens apply for a Sri Lanka ETA?
UAE citizens can apply for a Sri Lanka ETA (Sri Lanka tourist visa) through the official Sri Lanka ETA website or through authorized agencies.
Is there a fee for the Sri Lanka ETA for UAE citizens?
Yes, there is a processing fee associated with the Sri Lanka ETA application. You can pay the fee through the online portal.
Can UAE citizens apply for a Sri Lanka ETA upon arrival at the airport in Sri Lanka?
It's recommended to obtain a Sri Lanka ETA online before traveling. However, in certain situations, it may be possible to apply for one upon arrival, but this is not advisable due to potential delays and uncertainties.
Can UAE citizens use the Sri Lanka ETA for tourism purposes?
Yes, UAE citizens can use the Sri Lanka ETA for tourism to explore Sri Lanka's attractions and cultural heritage.
Is the Sri Lanka ETA suitable for business travel from the UAE?
Yes. UAE citizens can use the Sri Lanka ETA for business purposes, including attending meetings, conferences, and trade exhibitions.
Can UAE citizens use the Sri Lanka ETA for transit purposes?
Yes, the Sri Lanka ETA can be used for transit through Sri Lanka, provided the traveler has a confirmed onward flight within 72 hours of arrival.
Do UAE citizens' children require a Sri Lanka ETA?
Yes, UAE citizens' children, including infants and minors, require their own Sri Lanka ETA for entry into Sri Lanka.
What should UAE citizens do if they accidentally overstay their Sri Lanka ETA?
Overstaying a Sri Lanka ETA may result in fines or deportation. It is essential to leave Sri Lanka before the ETA expires or seek an extension if necessary.