Since 17 Aprilthe Sri Lanka has implemented a new electronic visa (e-Visa) for travellers, replacing the old electronic travel authorisation, theETA. This reform marks an important turning point in the entry procedure for visitors, allowing them to apply for their e-Visa via a dedicated online portal. The change is designed to simplify administrative procedures and offer an improved travel experience for all those wishing to discover the wonders of this island nation.
Since 17 April, Sri Lanka has had a new system of electronic visathe e-Visa, which replaces the old electronic travel authorisation (ETA). The aim of this reform is to simplify the entry process for travellers, while modernising the visa application system. In this article, we will explore the main changes linked to the introduction of the e-Visa, the procedure for obtaining it, and the different types and prices of e-Visa available.
Replacing the ETA with the e-Visa
Previously, visitors to Sri Lanka were required to obtain a ETA before arriving in Sri Lanka. However, from now on, it is essential to apply for an e-Visa via the official government website, www.srilankaevisa.lk. The aim of this new alternative is to cut red tape and provide a smoother travel experience.
Conditions for obtaining a Sri Lankan e-Visa
The platform designated to manage e-Visa applications is administered by VFS Globala leading provider of outsourced visa management and technology services. Nationals of all eligible nationalities can apply for an e-Visa, whether for tourism, business or transit purposes. However, restrictions apply to citizens of Cameroonthe North Koreathe Ivory Coast and GhanaIn order to apply, they must contact the Sri Lankan Embassy or Immigration and Emigration Department.
Sri Lanka's new e-Visa platform
The procedure for obtaining an e-Visa is completely paperless and can be completed in just a few simple steps. Travellers must go to the official website, create an account or log in to an existing account, fill in the online application form and upload the necessary documents, such as an scanned passport and a recent photo. Once the form has been completed, payment of the e-Visa fee can be made via several payment options. Finally, applicants must await the decision of the Sri Lankan authorities.
Unlike the ETA, it is now required to provide certain additional information, such as a telephone number when you create your account and a passport-size photo.
Types and prices of e-Visas
Once the application has been submitted, a reference number is assigned, enabling travellers to track the progress of their application online. Once the e-Visa has been approved, it is necessary to download then print it and present it to the authorities on arrival in Sri Lanka. There are several types of e-Visa, with different fees and validity periods:
- Tourist Visa Single Entry : valid for 30 days for one entry, accessible to Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, Malaysian, Russian and Thai citizens until 30 April 2024;
- Tourist Visa Standard Visitor Visa : valid for 6 months for stays of 60 days and 2 entries, costing USD 75 (€ 176);
- Tourist Visa 1 Year - Multi-entry : valid for 1 year, 90-day stay limit for USD 200 (€176);
- Tourist Visa 2 Years Multi-Entry : valid for 2 years, maximum stay 180 days for USD 300 (€ 264);
- Tourist Visa 5 Years Multi-Entry : Valid for 5 years, stay limited to 180 days for USD 500 (€ 440);
- Tourist Visa 10 Years Multi-Entry : Valid for 10 years, stay limited to 180 days for USD 1,000 (€879);
Citizens of the SAARC region benefit from reduced fees for the Standard Visitor Visa. Intermediary fees have been added to these fares, including VFS Global's USD18.5 and a USD7 bank fee, raising fears of higher costs for a previously more accessible destination.
Exemptions and future initiatives
In addition, a new range of e-Visas for business was introduced, with features similar to those of tourist e-Visas, but requiring a letter of invitation from a sponsor in Sri Lanka. Certain nationalities, such as Singaporethe Maldivesthe Seychelles and the Czech RepublicThe standard tourist visa is waived for 6 months.
At the same time, the local Ministry of Tourism is working on the introduction of visa fee exemption for a sample of 50 countries, the list of which should be revealed in the coming weeks. This could simplify access to the country for even more travellers.
Comparison between e-Visa and ETA for entry into Sri Lanka
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Type of visa | e-Visa |
| Application procedure | Online on the official website |
| Documents required | Scanned passport, recent photo, telephone number |
| Eligible nationalities | All except restrictions for certain countries (Cameroon, etc.) |
| Period of validity | Varies according to type of visa (30 days to 10 years) |
| Typical costs | From USD 75 to USD 1,000 depending on the type of visa |
| Exemptions | Visa exemption for certain countries (Maldives, etc.) |
| Maximum length of stay | From 60 days to 180 days depending on the type of visa |
| Issued before 17 April 2024 | ETAs remain valid until they expire |
| Management platform | Managed by VFS Global |