To travel to Sri Lanka, it is absolutely essential to have obtained a visa beforehand. It is now possible to apply for an electronic visa (also known as an e-Visa) directly from a website set up by the Sri Lankan authorities. French nationals can also apply for an e-Visa. How do I obtain this visa? How do I apply? Nothing could be simpler!
Electronic Visa, instructions for use
For Sri Lanka, the e-Visa is more a type of travel authorisation. It used to be known as Electronic Travel Authorization until the visa was introduced in e024. It is compulsory to travel to Sri Lanka, and is personal and non-transferable. Obtaining an e-Visa is very simple. All you have to do is fill in the online form correctly. You can apply just 10 days before your departure, as the e-Visa is validated and sent very quickly.
This electronic visa is issued by the Sri Lankan authorities, in particular by the Immigration Department.
There is a charge for this type of service, and the price may vary depending on the type of visa required. You should expect to pay around 71 € consular fees for a tourist e-Visa allowing double entry into the country (so you can leave for Sri Lanka, go to India for a few days and then return to Sri Lanka without any problems). It is valid for 60 days. The transit e-Visa, on the other hand, allows a single entry into the country for 2 days and is free of charge (although you still need to apply online). A paid transit option is available for stays of up to 4 days.
Documents to enclose with your application
The application for an e-Visa for Sri Lanka is often accompanied by supporting documents, and French nationals are not exempt. You will need a valid passport (valid for approximately 6 months from the date of departure for Sri Lanka). Since everything is done online, you will receive an e-mail confirming that your application has been processed and registered. A few hours to a few days later, you will receive your e-Visa (if the application has been accepted). Remember to print out these e-mails and the e-Visa to take with you on the day of your departure.
Using an agency
There are many specialised agencies to help you with all your e-Visa applications abroad. Thanks to these specialist agencies, application forms are simplified, documents are received quickly (allow around 10 days to receive your e-Visa) and assistance is available (by phone but also sometimes by email or chat) to answer your questions or help you with any problems. Relying on a specialist agency means you can simplify your procedures and deal with professionals who know their business and all the intricacies of applying for an e-Visa.
An agency service 