If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka, for tourism or any other reason, you will need to go through the visa process. It is possible to apply for an e-Visa directly online, to make the process easier and quicker.
How to apply for an e-Visa
Applying for an e-Visa is particularly quick and easy. It is a compulsory document for entering Sri Lanka. It is a personal document. To apply, you do not need to attach a copy of your passport or a photograph. Simply fill in the online form on the official website, or apply through an agency.
You can pay for your e-visa directly on the site, using a bank card. You can apply for your visa yourself or go through a travel agency or specialist agency. The agency then becomes the intermediary between you and the country's authorities.
Once your application has been validated, you will receive your e-Visa directly by e-mail.
A tourist e-Visa costs around 72 € consular fees (excluding processing) and you can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 60 days from the date of entry. The 60-day e-Visa allows dual entry to the country. Other longer and more expensive options exist (90 days and valid for one year).
If you need a transit e-Visa, you still need to fill in a form on the website and the document costs 24 €. It allows only one entry into Sri Lanka and lasts for 4 days.
How long does it take to obtain an e-Visa?
Once all the forms have been duly completed and payment made, you will receive an initial e-mail confirming that your application has been registered. You can then expect to receive your e-Visa in due form at the e-mail address you provided.
As a general rule, it can take around 10 days to receive your document. You can therefore apply around ten days before departure, even if you use a specialist agency to help you with the paperwork.
Once you arrive at Colombo airport, you must present a copy of the e-Visa (so remember to print it out), your passport and your return ticket to the immigration office. You will also need to attach an identification form, which will have been given to you beforehand on the plane and which you will need to fill in carefully.
An agency service 