There are several types of electronic travel authorisation (eTA) for travel to Sri Lanka, each tailored to specific reasons for staying.
eTA Tourisme / Family visits
- Validity : Entry to Sri Lanka must be within 6 months of eTA approval.
- Length of stay 30 days
- Number of entries 2 (the second entry must be made within 30 days of the first)
- Cost USD 50 (excluding bank charges)
- Special features Not extendable
This authorisation is the most common for travellers wishing to discover Sri Lanka or visit relatives.
eTA Business
- Validity : Entry to Sri Lanka must be within 6 months of eTA approval.
- Length of stay 30 days per visit
- Number of entries : Multiple
- Cost USD 55 (excluding bank charges)
- Special features : Possible extension
This eTA is ideal for professionals who need to make several business trips to Sri Lanka over a 6-month period.
eTA Transit
- Length of stay 2 days maximum
- Restriction : Only for arrivals by sea (cruises)
This option is convenient for cruise passengers making a short stopover in Sri Lanka.
Application process
The eTA application is made online, greatly simplifying the process compared with the old physical visa system. Here are the steps to follow:
- Preparing documents :
- Copy of passport
- Copy of flight ticket or reservation (if applicable)
- Fill in the form online :
- Personal information
- Trip details
- Address in Sri Lanka
- Payment By credit card, securely
- Processing your request : Usually within 4 days
- Receipt of the eTA By e-mail, to be printed for the trip
Important information
- Passport validity Must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry into Sri Lanka.
- Return ticket Mandatory (except for cruises)
- Proof of resources Necessary for the duration of your stay
- Extension : Possible for eTA Affaires, to be made at Immigration Services Centre in Colombo