Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Sri Lanka is a crucial step for French travellers wishing to discover this magnificent island. It is essential to fully understand the process and to plan ahead to avoid any hiccups.
The official website for applying for an ETA is the Ministry of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka . However, many websites and travel agencies offer an ETA application management service. These agencies can simplify the process by guiding you in your own language.
If you choose to work with an agency, it is essential to check its reliability and reputation.. Read other travellers' reviews carefully and make sure that the agency is approved by the Sri Lankan embassy. Fraudulent websites do exist and it is important to protect yourself from scams.
Whether you apply yourself or through an agency, here are the key points to remember:
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date.
- You will need to provide a copy of your passport and your flight or reservation ticket.
- You need to allow for the cost of the ETA, plus a service charge if you use an agency.
- The processing time is generally 48 working hours, but it is advisable to make the request at least two weeks before your departure to have a safety margin.
- Once your application has been approved, you will receive your ETA by e-mail. It is important to print it out and keep it with you during your journey.
It is also important to remember that the ETA for Sri Lanka cannot be used to enter India.. If you plan to combine a trip to Sri Lanka with a stay in India, you will need to obtain a visa for India separately.