When planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it is essential to find out about the formalities involved in entering the country. These formalities include obtaining a electronic travel authorisation (eTA) or a electronic tourist visa (e-Visa) are crucial steps. Let's take a closer look at the main differences between these two options to help you better understand which one will best suit your needs during your stay in Sri Lanka.
What's the difference?
A Electronic travel authorisation (AVE) is the French term for eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)This is an electronic document specific to Sri Lanka that was introduced in 2012 but will be abolished in 2024 to make way for an electronic visa (e-Visa). This was an online travel authorisation that allows foreign citizens to travel to Sri Lanka for short stays for tourism, business or transit purposes. The eTA required completion of an online form and payment of the associated fees.
The e-Visa is based on the same model, but with a different definition: an eTA is an authorisation allowing a traveller to go to a country and benefit from a visa exemption, whereas the e-Visa is a document allowing entry. The Sri Lankan e-Visa is much more expensive than the eTA that preceded it.
eTA and e-Visa features
- Validity The e-Visa is valid for 6 months or 1 year from the date of issue.
- Length of stay With an e-Visa, you are authorised to stay in Sri Lanka for a maximum period of 30, 60 or 90 days.
- Number of entries : The e-Visa allows one, two or an unlimited number of entries into Sri Lanka
- Type of journey The e-Visa is issued for tourist, business or transit stays.
An agency service 