tourist visa extension sri lanka

Extension of Visas for Foreigners in Sri Lanka

Considering the spread of COVID - 19 virus in the country, the Government of Sri Lanka has extended the validity period of all types of Visas for Foreigners in Sri Lanka from 07 th  October 2020 to 05 th  December 2020.

• How To Apply?
• Extend ETA?
• Exemption list
• COVID Policy
• Terms and Condition
• Privacy Policy
• Useful Link

• Track Application

What is ETA Approval Note?

ETA is s for short term visit for tourism, business or transit visitor activities such as attending a conference, making business enquiries, or for contractual negotiations.

The ETA is assisted through an on-line system. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required. There is no other requirement to stamp the ETA on the passport.

Upon arrival, produce your passport to the immigration officer at the port of entry to obtain the necessary clearance. It is recommended for you to show a copy of the ETA approval Note which is recieved by email along with you.

An ETA is not a work visa. If you would like to work in Sri Lanka you can use visit Immigration Department for a visa that is suitable for you

Short Visit to Sri Lanka

An Tourist visiting for a short term stay for below listed purposes, may obtain ETA approval note before their arrival.

Visit Category: Tourist Visa

• Sightseeing, holidaying
• Visiting friends and relatives
• Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and yoga
• Participate in sporting events, competitions and activities relating to cultural performance

Visit Category: Business Visa

• Participate in business meetings and negotiations
• Participate in Conferences, workshops and seminars
• To take part in Short term training programs (less than one month)
• Participate in Music, Art and Dance Cultural Events
• Attending in Religious activities
• Participate in Conference Meeting

Visit Category: Transit Visa

• Transiting through Sri Lanka

The types of Visa Validity

• ETA for Tourist purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
• ETA for Business purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
• ETA Transit valid upto to 02 days on Free of Charge basis but processing chrages applicable (Documentary proof needed)

At the arrival applicant may be granted 30 days ETA with double entry facility and double entries can be made from the date of initial arrival (Within given 30 days).Second entry is permitted to stay upto 30 days if it travelling within 30 days from the date of first visit.

Conditions of an ETA are:

• It is your responsibility to know what your visa allows you to do while in Sri Lanka.
• After your ETA is granted you are able to enter and leave Sri Lanka as twice time during one month period from first arrival.
• You can stay in Sri Lanka for a maximum of 1 Month and extension upto 6 months.
• You must not have any criminal convictions for which you have been sentenced for a total combined period of 12 months or more, whether or not you served the sentence's.
• It is illegal to work on an ETA. Whilst on an ETA you have no right to work in Sri Lanka. Business ETA holder are allowed to attend such as the undertaking of business enquiries and contractual negotiations or attending conferences.

If you would like more information on an ETA, you can view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or visit the Department's website.

• Track Status
• Information
• Terms and Conditions
• Refund Policy
• Delivery Policy

Her Asian Adventures

Luxury Travel on a Budget

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa: Everything You Need To Know in 2024

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to get and extend your Sri Lanka tourist visa hassle-free in 2024.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve just made one of the best travel decisions ever : heading off to Sri Lanka! 

But before you start dreaming about epic safaris or surfing on those stunning beaches, there’s one more thing you need to do: figure out how to get your Sri Lanka visa.

Don’t worry, though – I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I’ll walk you through everything— from visa types and costs to how to extend your tourist visa if you decide to stay a bit longer.

Let’s dive in and make your trip to Sri Lanka stress-free!

• How to Get Sri Lanka Visa Online and On Arrival

Understanding Sri Lanka´s Visa System

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Not sure if Sri Lanka is worth it? Check out these 10 Amazing Reasons to Visit in 2024!

Yes, absolutely! Since 2012, anyone planning a trip to Sri Lanka must have a visa. It doesn’t matter where you’re from or how long you’re planning to stay; you simply can’t travel to Sri Lanka without a visa.

The only exceptions to this rule are Sri Lankan dual citizens, certain children under specific conditions, and holders of Diplomatic or Official Passports.

Now, the type of visa you’ll need for your Sri Lanka adventure depends on why you’re visiting Sri Lanka in the first place. Are you planning a romantic honeymoon, looking to work remotely, or just passing through?

No matter your reason, here’s a quick rundown of the types of visas available in Sri Lanka:

• Tourist Visa : Ideal for exploring Sri Lanka for up to 30 days, with the option to extend your stay for 6 months.
• Transit Visa : Perfect for those quick layovers in Colombo . It’s completely free and grants a 48-hour stay with a single entry.
• Residence Visa: Designed for longer stays in Sri Lanka for work, investment, or educational purposes.
• Business Visa : Tailored for work-related visits , such as attending meetings or workshops.

For me, as a solo female traveler looking to explore this beautiful country, the tourist visa is the perfect fit.

It gives me enough time to discover all the top things to do in Sri Lanka , with the added perk of being able to slip out and back in once during those 30 days (thank you, double entry!).

There are four main ways to get your Sri Lanka tourist visa, and I’ll walk you through each of them in detail later on:

• Apply online by yourself.
• Apply online through a third party.
• Apply in person upon arrival at the airport.
• Apply in person at your country’s Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.

The ETA, short for Electronic Travel Authorization, is your official permission to visit Sri Lanka for a short period of time. 

It’s not a separate type of visa; it’s an online system that lets you to apply for a Tourist, Business, or Transit Visa.

Throughout this guide, I’ll mainly focus on the Sri Lanka tourist visa. However, you might hear me refer to it as “Sri Lanka Visa” or “Sri Lanka ETA” – for our purposes here, they’re pretty much the same thing!

Usually, no, it’s not. Most travelers need to pay a fee ranging from $20 to $60 for a tourist visa.

There’s one exception though— the transit visa, which comes at absolutely no cost! Oh, and here’s another perk— all visas are free for children of any nationality under 12 years old.

The cost of your visa will depend on a few factors: your nationality, the type of visa you’re applying for, and how you choose to apply.

You should always check out the Official Sri Lanka Visa Website to get the most up-to-date information, but here’s a quick summary:

For Most Nationalities

• Tourist visa online: $50
• Tourist visa on arrival: $60
• Business visa: $55
• Transit visa: Free

For SAARC Countries

• Tourist visa online: $20
• Tourist visa on arrival: $25
• Business visa online: $30

Before diving into your Sri Lanka adventure, let’s make sure you have everything you need for your visa application:

• A valid passport
• The address of your first-night accommodation in Sri Lanka
• A reliable payment method, like a valid credit or debit card for the visa fee

That’s all it takes! No passport copies, documents or photographs are required. How convenient is that?

Do I Need A Plane Ticket To Apply For The ETA?

No, there’s no need to book flights in advance. When applying for your visa, you only need to know your intended arrival date.

Do I Need Travel Insurance To Get The Sri Lanka ETA?

While travel insurance isn’t a requirement for applying for the ETA or even entering Sri Lanka, I highly recommend it.

It offers peace of mind and can be a lifesaver in handling any unexpected issues that may come up during your Sri Lanka adventure. Also, if you’re traveling solo in Sri Lanka, don’t forget to pack some safety essentials!

Also Read: 23 Essential Safety Items For Solo Female Travelers in 2024

As you get ready to enter Sri Lanka, make sure you have the following essentials to breeze through emigration:

• A valid passport with at least six months’ validity and two empty pages.
• Printed ETA (though usually available on arrival, your airline might request it before boarding).
• Proof of return or onward travel plans .
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.
• Accommodation address for your first night in Sri Lanka.
• Sri Lanka Arrival Card (usually provided on the plane or at the airport, now available online ).
• A pen (handy for filling out forms).

Note: While I’ve never been asked for proof of return or sufficient funds, it’s always better to be prepared!

Keep Reading: 8 Must-Know Tips to Go Through Airport Security Faster!

Absolutely! Sri Lanka offers an online visa application system, making it incredibly convenient for travelers like you and me to apply for a visa from anywhere in the world with internet access.

Gone are the days of embassy visits or waiting in airport queues! (though, those options are still available if you prefer!)

Getting a Sri Lanka visa online is easier than you might think! Just fill out a straightforward online form, pay the visa fee, and then await the approval email, typically arriving within 24 hours.

The best part? You don’t need to involve a third party. The entire process can be completed in less than 10 minutes, right from the comfort of your own home.

Alright, now, let me walk you through exactly how to get your Sri Lanka tourist visa online

Step 1: Enter the Official ETA Website

First things first, head straight to the Official ETA Website . Choose your preferred language, navigate to the “Apply” section, and agree to the basic terms and conditions.

Now, pick the type of visa you need. If you’re traveling solo, go for “Tourist ETA – Apply for an individual”. If you’re traveling Sri Lanka with family or friends, click on “Tourist ETA –Apply for group”.

IMPORTANT: Always double-check that you’re on the right website to avoid being charge extra by unofficial platforms.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Get comfortable and fill out the application form with all your personal and travel details .

Make sure to answer “No” to the three questions at the end, or you won’t be able to move forward.

Keep in mind that the form is available only in English , and you just need to fill in the sections marked with a red asterisk.

Step 3: Double-Check Your Information

Once you’ve completed the form, take a moment to review all the information you’ve provided on the next page.

It’s always worth the extra time to ensure everything is correct.

Why? Well, if you happen to spot an error later on, you’ll need to submit a brand new visa application – and yes, that means paying for it again!

Step 4: Pay the Sri Lanka Visa Fee

Ready to proceed? Great! Now, it´s time to choose your preferred payment method and settle the Sri Lanka visa fee.

Remember, the Sri Lanka tourist visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.

You Might Also Like: 15 Great Tips For Using Credit Cards While Traveling Asia

Step 5: Keep an Eye on Your Inbox

Keep an eye on your inbox for an email confirming they’ve received your application.

This email just confirms they’ve got your application, not whether your visa’s been approved. 

And don’t forget to jot down the reference number they give you; it might come in handy later for any questions or status checks.

Step 6: Wait for the Response – Visa Approved!

Now, sit back and wait for another email – this one will let you know if your visa’s been approved or denied. 

Usually, it takes 24-48 hours for a Sri Lanka visa to get approved, but sometimes you get lucky, like I did – got mine in just 15 minutes!

Step 7: Print Our Your Visa

So, your visa got approved – that’s awesome news! Now, make sure to print out the entire email containing your visa approval and keep it safe with your other travel documents.

You might be wondering, why bother printing it if it’s already linked to my passport?

Well, here’s the thing – while Sri Lanka’s immigration office usually doesn’t ask for it, your airline might want to see it before you board your flight.

And why is that, you ask? Because, if for any reason you’re denied entry upon arrival, your airline would need to arrange your return trip home – and believe me, they’d much rather avoid that headache!

Step 8: Touchdown in Sri Lanka

Finally, once you land at Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo), make your way to the immigration officers’ queue and hand over all those important documents we talked about earlier.

The immigration officer will then stamp your passport with the duration of your visit – just make sure to double-check that it matches what you applied for!

With all the paperwork sorted and your luggage collected, you’re officially ready to start exploring Sri Lanka!

Keep Reading: Exactly What To Do If Your Luggage is Lost or Stolen At the Airport

Absolutely! If you haven’t had the chance to arrange your visa beforehand, don’t worry – you can always get your Sri Lanka visa at Colombo airport upon arrival.

Here´s everything you need to know on getting your visa upon arrival in Sri Lanka:

• As soon as you touch down, make your way to a small office located just a few steps away from the immigration counter.
• Once there, the process is similar to filling out the online application – have your passport ready, complete the ETA application form, and pay the visa fee.
• If everything goes smoothly and your details check out, your Sri Lanka visa application will be approved, and you’ll be issued an ETA valid for 30 days.
• Finally, head over to the Immigration gates, where you’ll present the ETA, the immigration paper, and your passport – just like you would if you had applied for the ETA from home.

In my experience, the Sri Lanka ETA is a much better option than the visa on-arrival.

Why? Well, consider this: the airport queue for the visa on arrival can be painfully long, and it’ll cost you an extra $10 compared to applying online.

What’s more, if your visa is rejected last minute , you’ll be denied entry to Sri Lanka and forced to return home.

On the other hand, applying online is a breeze. In just 10 minutes, you can have your visa sorted without needing any advanced tech skills.

For all these reasons, I wholeheartedly recommend taking care of your tourist visa online before embarking on your Sri Lanka adventure.

Read Next: 20 Epic Things to Do in Phi Phi Island, Thailand

Another option for getting your Sri Lanka visa is by heading over to the Sri Lanka embassy or consulate in your country.

The process is quite similar to what we discussed earlier, with the main difference being that you’ll need to wait about 3 working days for the Embassy to process your visa (though sometimes it might take longer, so always apply well in advance!).

Once approved, you’ll also need to swing by in person to pick it up.

Sure, my top choice for applying for the Sri Lanka visa will always be doing it online by myself. It’s cheap, it’s faster, and above all, it’s safe.

But if English isn’t your first language or you run into any issues with payments or sending documents on the official website, there’s no need to stress.

You can always opt for a third-party service like Ivisa.com , which handles everything for you for a fee of less than 20 USD (17 euros).

Just enter your travel dates, personal info, passport details, and payment method, and they’ll take care of the rest.

The maximum stay on a Sri Lanka tourist visa is 30 days. But, if you’re not ready to leave the country, you can always extend your visa

With your first extension, you can add another 60 days (that’s 2 months) to your initial 30-day visa, giving you a total of 90 days (or 3 months). 

Then, for your second and final extension, you can tack on another 90 days, reaching a maximum stay of 6 months from the day you first set foot in Sri Lanka.

Oh, overstaying your visa in Sri Lanka is definitely something you want to avoid! It can lead to some serious consequences, including hefty fines and even deportation.

Always make sure to apply for a tourist visa extension in advance or leave the country before your visa expires. 

Believe me, a few extra days in Sri Lanka are not worth the potential trouble (or the money you might have to pay in fines!) .

Well, here’s the good news: unlike some other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, in Sri Lanka, you don´t have to leave the country to extend your visa.

Let me walk you through the whole process step by step:

Extend Your Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Online

First things first, I’d highly recommend trying to extend your Sri Lanka tourist visa online. It’s super convenient and saves you the hassle of making a trip to the immigration office.

All you need to do is provide your passport and nationality details, fill in the visa extension information, and submit your application online.

Once it’s verified, you’ll receive an email with a link to pay the visa fees, and your visa extension will arrive in your inbox.

However, if for some reason the online platform isn’t working or you never receive the email with the payment link (which can happen sometimes!), things can get a bit tricky.

In that case, you might need to head over to Colombo , specifically to the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Here are the details:

• Address: Suhurupaya, Subuthi Dr, Battaramulla, Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Google Maps)
• Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:15 pm.

Extend Your Tourist Visa in Person in Colombo 

Once you’re there, follow this step-by-step guide:

• Go directly to the Visa section on the 4th floor to avoid the long queues of Sri Lankans trying to renew their passports.
• Head to the “Token Issuing Counters” in AREA C to receive a form to fill out and attach a passport-sized photo.
• Present the completed form along with your original passport to receive a token number. Make sure to keep this number handy throughout the process.
• Wait in the designated waiting area (AREA B) until your token number is called.
• When your number is called, enter an office where you’ll submit your documentation and answer some basic questions.
• Return to the waiting area in AREA C.
• At the “Visa Issuing Counter,” collect your documents along with the payment receipt for the visa extension fee.
• Proceed to the “Cashier Counter” to pay the visa fee . You can use a credit card or the ATM available in the building.
• Return to the “Visa Issuing Counter” with the payment receipt, and receive your documents with the visa extension stamped in your passport. 

With these steps, you’ve successfully extended your visa and can get back to enjoying all that Sri Lanka has to offer.

Read Next: 25 Free Travel Apps You Can´t Travel Southeast Asia Without

How much does it cost to extend your Sri Lanka visa? Well, the exact price isn’t readily available online, not even on the official website.

However, last time I checked, extending your visa for one month typically costs around $100.

But the good news is that you could get a two-month visa extension for the same price!

Still, $100 can really add up, especially when you’re keeping a close eye on your budget during your Sri Lanka adventure. So, you should take a moment to consider whether it’s truly worth the investment if you’re only planning to stay for a few extra days.

Keep Reading: 15 Expert Money Tips to Travel Southeast Asia With Cash

If you ever find yourself extending your visa in Sri Lanka, here are some things you should know:

• Arrive Early : Aim to get there before 10:00 am if you want to complete the process in a single day.
• Be Patient: Be prepared to spend at least 4 hours .
• Bring Correct Documents : Make sure to bring exactly the same documents you used to enter Sri Lanka, along with any extra supporting documents for the visa extension
• Passport Photo: You’ll need a passport photo, which you can easily get downstairs for 500 Rs.
• Pack Snacks: Bring along snacks, water, and something to pass the time while you wait.

Bonus Tip: If you need snacks or drinks, you’ll find a restaurant downstairs and a shop on the same floor.

You can apply for an ETA from 90 days up to 24 hours before your arrival . This gives you a window of three months from the date your visa is issued to enter Sri Lanka.

However, to avoid any last-minute panic attacks, I always recommend applying at least one or two weeks before your intended travel date.

Going to the beach? Check out my Ultimate Beach Packing List

If your visa application is rejected , don’t panic .You’ll receive a referral notification and should contact the nearest Sri Lanka Overseas Mission for assistance.

Unfortunately, the visa fee is non-refundable , so you won´t get your money back.

Indeed it is! With a Sri Lanka tourist visa, you’re free to exit and re-enter the country once within those initial 30 days. 

It’s handy if you plan to explore other countries in Asia, like Cambodia or Japan , and then return to continue your Sri Lankan adventure.

Read Next: +25 Places to Visit in Japan in The Fall (Add #3 to Your Bucket List!)

If you’re just passing through Sri Lanka and staying within the airport, you don’t need a visa. But if you plan to step out during your layover in Colombo, you’ll need a free transit visa.

To be on the safe side, I’d suggest going online and getting this visa before your trip .

Just remember, it only allows you to stay for up to 2 days, and you can’t extend or change it to another type of visa later on.

And there you have it – your stress-free guide to getting a Sri Lanka visa in 2024. I’ve tried my best to cover all your questions!

Sure, dealing with visas can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but trust me, the experiences waiting for you in Sri Lanka are totally worth it.

Have more questions? Drop them in the comments below! I’m here to help.

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The author of Her Asian Adventures is a solo female travel blogger from Spain. With over 10 years of experience in more than 15 Asian countries, she shares expert travel guides and tips to show that luxury experiences can be enjoyed on a budget. Passionate about empowering women, she is on a mission to help solo female travelers explore safely, affordably, and confidently.

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Scuh great information. Each country has different visa requirements so it’s nice to have all the information laid out in an easy-to-understand way!

I always get intimidated when Visas are involved. You make it sound easy!

Hi We are cruising and stopping off in Colombo for one day and Hambantota for one day. Arrive morning, leave that evening.

Reading this, I assume a transit visa is OK for Colombo (as we are there less than 1 day). What about Hambantota

Hello, yes this piece of writing is genuinely good and I have learned lot of things from it concerning blogging. thanks.

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Renew or extend your visa or ETA for Sri Lanka

Most international visitors to Sri Lanka must have a valid travel authorisation to enter the country. If you are travelling with the Sri Lanka ETA, you should be aware of the renewal process, in case you intend to stay for longer.

Travellers should be aware that overstaying a visa without extending it can lead to fines, detentions, and deportations from Sri Lanka. Thankfully, extending your Sri Lanka ETA is quick and simple.

What is the duration of validity of a Sri Lankan ETA?

The Sri Lanka ETA is valid for a period of 6 months . This time starts from the date the travel authorisation is issued.

If your Sri Lanka ETA has expired before your arrival date , you will need to apply for a new travel authorisation which will be valid when you travel.

It is important to note that the validity period is not the same as the time you can stay in the country. The ETA allows you to stay for up to 30 days , starting from the date you enter the country.

Once I enter Sri Lanka with my visa, how long can I stay there?

The ETA for Sri Lanka allows you to enter the country and stay for up to 30 days . This time period starts from the date you arrive in Sri Lanka.

If you wish to stay for longer than 30 days you must apply for a Sri Lanka ETA extension.

Can I extend my Sri Lankan visa online?

You can apply for a Sri Lanka ETA extension easily online by completing the ETA form.

This is the easiest way to extend your travel authorisation , as it avoids going in person to a government office to apply in person.

How do I extend my Sri Lankan ETA online?

To apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa extension, you must complete a new ETA application form . The process is the same as the original time you applied —just fill in the form with your personal details and travel plans.

There are also some questions related to health and security . All applicants must also meet the ETA requirements (listed below).

It is essential to answer all the questions fully and accurately. Errors and missing information could delay processing. Applicants should carefully revise all the information they enter before submission.

To submit the form, applicants need to pay a fee using a credit or debit card . The ETA application is then processed by the relevant authorities. The vast majority of applications are quickly approved within 24 hours of submission .

During the ETA application process, you will receive notifications and updates regarding the status of your application by email. You will also receive your renewed Sri Lanka ETA by email .

Sri Lanka ETA renewal requirements

To be eligible to apply for a Sri Lanka ETA renewal you must meet all the ETA requirements .

These requirements are the same as the standard application . It is only necessary to have an eligible passport (which is valid for 6 months) and a credit or debit card to pay the fee.

However, after completing the initial application, it is also necessary to provide some supporting documentation at the border (if re-entering). It is necessary to present the following:

• A printed copy of the ETA Sri Lanka renewal
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the extension of the trip
• A confirmed return ticket or an onward ticket to another destination

Travellers from the following countries must also provide a yellow fever vaccination certificate at the port of entry to Sri Lanka to comply with International health regulations:

• Central African Republic
• French Guiana
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Sierra Leone
• Sao Tome and Principe
• United Republic of Uganda

How much is Sri Lanka visa extension?

The application process for a Sri Lanka ETA extension is the same as the original, therefore the price is the same as when you first requested your ETA.

You just need a debit or credit card which is authorised for online payments to pay the application fee securely online.

Can I apply for a new ETA visa while I’m still in Sri Lanka?

If you are already in Sri Lanka and you wish to stay longer than your allocated 30 days, it is possible to apply for an extension while you are in the country.

You must go in person to an immigration office to apply for your Sri Lanka visa extension, ensuring that you have all required documents before your visit.

Applying for a visa extension in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka visa extension applications can also be made at the Immigration Services Centre in Colombo or at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Battaramulla.

Extensions are usually given in blocks of 180 days , though 270-day extensions are also possible.

The following documentation is required when you apply for a visa extension in Sri Lanka:

• Original passport
• Colour passport size photo (3.5 x 2.5 cm)
• Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover the period of stay
• Proof of a return air ticket or proof of onward travel

Apply for a New Sri Lanka ETA

What happens if you overstay your visa in Sri Lanka?

Visitors should apply for a Sri Lanka visa extension before their current visa expires . Foreigners may be refused an extension if the request is made once their visa has already run out.

Staying in Sri Lanka longer than the visa allows can lead to fines. Travellers will be fined according to the length of the overstay.

Foreigners who significantly overstay a Sri Lanka visa could face issues returning to the country in the future.

To avoid these penalties , foreign visitors must request the Sri Lanka ETA extension or visa extension well before the expiry date.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to apply for Sri Lanka visa extension online – A step-by-step guide

Published: January 1, 2022 4 Comments

You can apply for a Sri Lanka visa extension from within the country from the comfort of your hotel room. The entire procedure to extend the visa is online, from application submission to payment to receiving the extension.

To prevent tourists from gathering at the immigration office in Colombo, Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration is encouraging tourists to use their online visa extension portal. 

The online visa extension portal is clean, simple and quite easy to use. It takes about 10 minutes to fill the application. About 2 working days to process the extension and another working day for the payment. 

For any reason, if you cannot extend your visa online, you will have to go to the Immigration and Emigration office in Colombo or you have to take the help of an agent. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How long is the visa extension valid for, when should you extend your visa, how long does it take to process the visa extension, how much does the visa extension cost, step 1: registration, 2a. application, 2b. group member / dependent, 2c. confirmation, 2d. success, 3a. payment details, 3b. proceed with the payment, 3c. terms and conditions, 3d. confirm payment details, 3e. card details, 3f. thank you for your payment, 3g. payment success, step 4: visa endorsement, appendix 1: how to reduce the file size to 50kb or less.

Sri Lanka ETA allows you to stay up to 30 days in Sri Lanka. You can extend your visa twice from within the country, once for 60 days and again for 90 days. 

The maximum time you can remain in Sri Lanka continuously as a tourist is 180 days. 

If you exhaust your two allowed extensions, you will have to leave the country.

You can extend your visa anytime after you have entered Sri Lanka on your ETA. You don’t have to wait till the last minute. 

I suggest extending your visa at least a week before your current visa expires as the extension procedure takes a minimum of 3 working days. 

The online Sri Lanka visa extension process takes about 3 working days. It takes 2 working days to process your visa extension application and 1 working day to process your visa extension fee payment. 

The Sri Lanka visa extension fee is $60 USD for the first extension and $90 USD for the second extension. A convenience fee of $2.5 USD will be charged if paying by a Visa/MasterCard and $1.5 USD if paying by American Express. 

STEPS FOR ONLINE SRI LANKA VISA EXTENSION

• Go to Sri Lanka Online Application for Visa Extension
• Click on the “LOGIN” button located at the top right corner of the screen

You will be taken to the “SIGN IN” page.

On the “SIGN IN” page, click on the “REGISTER” button.

You will be taken to the “REGISTRATION PAGE”.

Enter the following in the “Personal Information” section.

• Title [ Comment: Select your title depending on your gender,marital status and profession]
• Last Name [ Comment: Enter your last name as it appears in your passport]
• First Name [ Comment: Enter your given name (or first name + middle name combination) as it appears in your passport]
• Date of Birth [ Comment: Enter your date of birth as it appears on your passport]
• UNSPECIFIED

NOTE The above details DO NOT have to be the same as they appear on your passport. But I suggest keeping them the same so things are clear, clean and leave no room for confusion.

Enter the following in the “Contact Information” section.

• Email [ Comment: Enter the email where you would like to receive your visa extension approval]
• Confirm Email [ Comment: Re-enter your email to confirm]

Enter the following in the “Passport Information” section.

• Password [ Comment: Enter a new password so you can log into the account]
• Confirm Password [ Comment: Re-enter the password to confirm]

Enter the following in the “Address of Resident” section.

• Address of Resident [ Comment: Enter your address from your country of residence or home country]
• Contact Number (Foreign) [ Comment: Enter your phone number from your country or residence or home country]

Enter the following in the “Address in Sri Lanka” section.

• Address in Sri Lanka [ Comment:   Enter your current hotel or apartment address in Sri Lanka]
• Contact Number (Sri Lankan) [ Comment: Enter your Sri Lanka mobile phone number]

Click on the “SAVE AND CONTINUE” button.

You will be taken back to the SIGN IN page. You will see a “Please check your email for the Account Verification Code” popup. 

Click on the “OK” button to close the popup.

Check your email inbox for an email with the subject “Welcome to Online Visa Extension”. It will have a verification code in it. You need this verification code to sign in.

Enter the following on the “SIGN IN” page.

• Email Address [ Comment: The email address used to register your account earlier]
• Password [ Comment: The password you have created during registration earlier]
• Verification Code [ Comment: The verification code from the welcome email]
• Remember me [ Comment: Check this box so your browser will remember your info for the next time]

Click on the “LOGIN” button. 

You will be taken to the home page again. You should see your email as the logged-in user.

STEP 2: APPLY

Enter the following information on the home page.

• Passport No [ Comment: Enter the number of your passport that you have used to enter Sri Lanka]
• Nationality [ Comment: Enter your passport nationality]

Click on the “APPLY>” button.

You will be taken to the “APPLICATION” page.

The online visa extension portal automatically pulls your Sri Lanka entry details from their immigration database using your passport number and nationality. 

Review the following information in the “Personal Details” section.

• Your Current ETA
• Will Expires On
• Reason for visiting
• Nationality
• Visa Issue Date
• Passport Exp. Date

Upload the supporting documents in the “Please Upload Supports Documents For Your Visa” section.

Documents need to be uploaded

• Passport size photograph [ Comment: MANDATORY. Upload your passport size digital color photo]
• Copy of the passport [ Comment: MANDATORY. Upload a scan of your passport ID page]
• Return air ticket (if available) [ Comment: OPTIONAL. Flight ticket is not required for the first extension, but maybe required for the second extension]
• Company request letter (if available) [ Comment: NOT REQUIRED]
• Other document [ Comment: NOT REQUIRED]

Document file format

The two mandatory documents (a) passport size photo and (b) passport ID page must be in “JPG” format only. 

Document file size

Each file must be less than 50kb in size. If the file size is larger than 50kb, the system will not accept the file upload.

50kb is ridiculously small, so it can be quite challenging to compress your documents that small. But there are quite a few online tools that do a good job. I have provided you with a tool that I used and the steps to compress your files to 50kb or less in APPENDIX 1 [ GO TO APPENDIX 1 ].

Follow the below steps to upload your passport size photo

• From the dropdown, select “Passport size photograph”
• Click on “Choose a file” button
• Select the your 50kb or less passport size digital photo in JPG format
• Click on “Upload File”
• You will see a “File uploaded successfully” popup
• Click on “OK” button to close the popup
• You should see your uploaded file renamed as “photograph.jpeg” under “Uploaded Files”

Follow the below steps to upload your passport ID page

• From the dropdown, select “Copy of the Passport – jpg format”
• Select the your 50kb or less passport ID page in JPG format
• You should see your uploaded file renamed as “passport.jpeg” under “Uploaded Files”

Enter the following in Address of Resident (Overseas Address)

• Address of Resident (Overseas Address) [ Comment: Enter your current address in your country of residence or home country]
• Contact Number (Foreign) [ Comment: Enter your mobile phone number in your country of residence]

Enter the following in Address in Sri Lanka

• Address in Sri Lanka [ Comment: Enter your current hotel or apartment address in Sri Lanka]
• Contact Number (Sri Lankan) [ Comment: Enter your Sri Lankan mobile phone number]

Enter the following information in the rest of the page.

• Details of previous visit to Sri Lanka within immediate six months if any [ Comment: If you have visited Sri Lanka earlier in the last 6 months, enter the details here]
• Email [ Comment: Enter the email where you would like to received your extension approval]
• Reason for Extension [ Comment: Select “TOURIST” or “HOLIDAY”]
• Extend Until [ Comment: You are allowed to extend until “Allowed Max Date”, so enter any date on or before “Allowed Max Date”]

The following dates will be displayed at the bottom of the form to give you an idea of when you’ve entered, how long you are allowed to extend and also the longest extension date possible. 

Arrival Date This is the date on which you arrived in Sri Lanka.

Allowed Max Date This is the date until which you are allowed to extend your current visa. 

Max Date This is the date until which you are allowed to stay in Sri Lanka if a second extension is requested and approved. 

You will be taken to the “GROUP MEMBER / DEPENDENT” page.

If you are extending the visa just for yourself, you can skip this section. If you are traveling as a couple, family or group, you can use this section to extend the visas for your group members as well. 

Some travelers have expressed issues when extending visas as a group. I suggest extending each visa individually to avoid any troubles.

Review the information displayed on this page, especially your passport number and Visa Extend Date.

Check the box for declaration.

Click on the “CONFIRM” button.

You will be taken to the “SUCCESS” screen.

On this page, your application reference number will be displayed. 

Check your email inbox, you will receive an email confirming the application submission.

STEP 3: VISA PAYMENT

After about two working days, once your visa extension is approved, you will receive an email with payment instructions. 

The email will contain a PDF attachment with payment instructions. 

Open the PDF attachment.

The PDF attachment will have a link for online visa payment specific to your visa.

Click on the link.

You will be taken to the “PAYMENT DETAILS” page.

On the “PAYMENT DETAILS” page, you will see your visa extension details along with the green “PAY ONLINE” button.

Click on the green “PAY ONLINE” button.

You will be taken to the “PROCEED WITH THE PAYMENT” page.

On this page, you will see the two payment options and the convenience fee for each option. 

If you use an American Express card, you will be charged a convenience fee of $1.5 USD.

If you use a Visa or MasterCard, you will be charged a convenience fee of $2.5 USD.

Click on the green “Proceed” button.

You will be taken to the “Terms and Conditions” page.

NOTE Occasionally, you will see an error when you click on the “Proceed” button. In such a case, try clearing your cookies or use the Chrome Incognito browser.

Enter the following details on the “TERMS AND CONDITIONS” page.

• I Accept [ Comment: Read through the terms and conditions and check this box]
• AMEX/Diners
• Any Visa/MasterCard (Paycorp/AutoSettle – USD)

Click on the blue “Proceed” button.

You will be taken to the “CONFIRM PAYMENT DETAILS” page.

NOTE From this step onwards, you will have only 10 minutes to complete the payment. Else, it will time out and you will have to start over from step “3a. PAYMENT DETAILS”.

On this screen, you will see the total amount you need to pay including the convenience fee. 

Click on the blue “Pay Now” button.

You will be taken to the credit card form.

Enter the following information in the credit card form.

• Card Number [ Comment: Enter your credit or debit card number]
• Expiry [ Comment: Enter the expiry date as it appears on your card]
• CVC [ Comment: Enter the CVC number as it appears on your card]
• Name on Card [ Comment: Enter your name as it appears on your card]
• Amount($) [ Comment: No need to enter anything here as the total amount will be shown here by default]

Click on the orange “Submit” button.

Your payment will be processed and then you will be taken to the “THANK YOU FOR YOUR PAYMENT” page.

On this page, a payment receipt will be displayed with details such as your payment result, reference number, amount, etc. 

You can print your payment receipt by clicking on the green “Print” button.

Check your email inbox. You will also receive an email confirmation of your payment. 

Now you can go back to the “PAYMENT DETAILS” page and refresh it to see if your payment status is updated.

Usually, it takes a few hours for the payment status to get updated. 

Once your payment status is updated, the green “PAY ONLINE” button will be replaced with a yellow “✓Paid” status.

Also, you will see a statement at the bottom of the page indicating your payment was successful. 

After one working day, you will receive a visa endorsement email notifying you that your visa has been successfully extended.

The email contains a PDF attachment of your visa endorsement. 

Open the PDF attachment and check the details. Make sure your full name, passport number, visa number and extension date are all correct.

Print or save this visa endorsement PDF as you may need it to present at the passport control when leaving Sri Lanka. 

Follow the below steps to reduce your file size to 50kb or less.

• Go to resizepixel.com
• Click on “UPLOAD IMAGE”

• Once the image is uploaded, at the bottom of the screen, you will see the original and current dimensions and the file size of the image uploaded

• From the left side menu options, click on the “Resize” option
• Change the longest dimension to 1000px. Keep the “Fixed aspect ratio” checked
• Click on the “Resize” button
• Once the image is resized, at the bottom of the screen, you will see the new dimensions and new file size of the image uploaded

• From the left side menu options, click on the “Compress” option
• Enter 50 kb for the compression
• Click on the “Compress” button
• Once the image is compressed, at the bottom of the screen, you will see the new file size of the image
• Click on the “Go to Download” button to download your new image.

Check the quality and size of the image. If necessary, repeat the above steps. 

That’s it, guys! Make sure to carry a print of your Sri Lanka visa extension PDF with you when leaving Sri Lanka. 

If you are having any troubles with your Sri Lanka visa extension application, let me know in the comments below.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

RELATED POSTS

melanie says

February 7, 2024 at 3:37 am

Thank you for that info. I’m trying to apply for an extension, not in country yet, but when I enter my passport number on the apply page I receive a message, visa not found, but I’m using the passport number directly from my approval letter. Unable to proceed. Any suggestions?

Thirumal Motati says

February 7, 2024 at 5:02 am

Hi Malanie! You must be inside the country to extend your visa. Your visa is not found because your visa is not generated yet. The approval letter is just an ETA and your actual visa will be generated when you clear immigration in Sri Lanka. Immigration will place a small visa sticker in your passport. After that you can extend your visa.

Stephen Dobbo says

November 24, 2023 at 2:19 pm

A very usefull article, it is very clear and well put together.

December 1, 2023 at 3:54 am

Hi Steve! Thanks for the kind words! Glad you found the article useful!

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Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Rules and Extension

In October 2023, Sri Lanka announced a new visa policy in order to increase tourism and encourage foreign investment in the country.

In this article, we will discuss new tourist visa regulations and the extension of tourist visas in Sri Lanka and provide a comprehensive guide to Sri Lanka visa photos.

Table of contents

• Sri Lanka tourist visa policy in 2024
• How to apply for Sri Lanka eTa online?
• Can you apply for Sri Lanka visa-on-arrival?
• How to extend Sri Lanka visa online?
• How to extend Sri Lanka visa at the Immigration office?
• Sri Lanka visa photo requirements
• Get a digital Sri Lanka visa photo online
• Take a Sri Lanka visa photo with phone. 7ID App
• Sri Lanka tourist visa fees

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Policy in 2024

Every traveler planning a visit to Sri Lanka is obliged to secure a visa, either upon arrival or through prior arrangements. For those embarking on a journey for tourism, the mandatory requirement is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This authorization grants a complimentary 30-day visa period and the flexibility of double entry, commencing from the initial arrival date in Sri Lanka and valid for 30 days.

In October 2023, Sri Lanka updated its tourist visa policy 2024 to offer free visas to nationals of seven countries: China, India, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This visa waiver is for a maximum stay of 30 days and can be obtained upon arrival or through an online application. The free visa waiver initiative continues until March 31, 2024, and allows for double entry from the date of first arrival in Sri Lanka after October 24, 2023.

Once in Sri Lanka, tourist can extend their stay without leaving the country. Extensions are usually provided in three-month blocks, with a maximum total extension of up to 270 days from the entry.

How to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA Online?

Any traveler planning a short visit to Sri Lanka must obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) in advance. Upon arrival, the applicant may be granted a 30-day ETA, with double entries permitted from the first entry date.

To apply for a Sri Lanka ETA online, follow these steps

• Go to the “Apply” option on the official website of Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration & Emigration .
• Fill out the form with the required details, such as personal information, passport details, and travel plans.
• Pay the processing fee with a valid credit or debit card.
• Submit the form and await a confirmation email, which usually arrives within a few hours.
• Print the received ETA approval notice to present to the immigration officer upon arrival in Sri Lanka.

As a reminder, residents of China, India, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia are exempt from the ETA until March 31, 2024, and will receive a free visa on arrival or through an online application.

The ETA is initially valid for 30 days from the date of arrival but can be extended up to six months. To do this, you will need to apply for an ETA visa extension Sri Lanka.

Can you Apply for Sri Lanka Visa on arrival?

It is possible to apply for a visa upon arrival in Sri Lanka. However, most tourists are advised to obtain an ETA before departure for a smoother process. This way, you will avoid a separate visa payment queue on arrival and can go straight through immigration control.

How to Extend Sri Lanka Visa Online?

To apply for your visa extension from Sri Lanka online, follow these steps:

• Go to the Visa Extension Portal on the official website of the Department of Immigration & Emigration of Sri Lanka.
• Fill in all the required details on the visa extension application form for Sri Lanka. This includes personal details, passport details, and itinerary.
• Upload the scan of your passport’ bio page and a digital photo. File sizes must be 100 kb as a maximum.
• After completing the information, apply for an online visa extension in Sri Lanka and await a confirmation email, which usually arrives within a few days.
• Once your visa extension is confirmed, you will receive an approval letter with a payment link. Pay the visa fee online using an accepted credit or debit card.
• Print the ETA approval notice and have it ready to present to the immigration officer when you arrive in Sri Lanka.

Remember that the duration of a short-stay visa can be extended up to a total of 270 days from the date of arrival, with the first extension being for 60 days and the next two extensions for 90 days each.

After 180 days, no electronic visa extensions are available; you must personally visit the Immigration Office in Colombo.

How to Extend a Sri Lanka Visa at the Immigration Office?

Tourist visa extension in Sri Lanka can also be applied for at the Immigration Services Center in Colombo's central business district. Here are the steps:

• Visit the Immigration Services Center with your application and fees. They will give you an approximate time to pick up your passport.
• The center will forward your application to the Department of Immigration for processing and later collect the processed passports.
• You can either pick up your passport in person at the Service Center or have it delivered for a small additional fee.

Sri Lanka Visa Photo Requirements

The Sri Lanka visa photo specifications are as mentioned below:

• The Sri Lanka visa photo size should be 45×35 mm.
• The file size must not exceed 100 kb.
• The photo must be in color.
• Your face should fully face the camera, with a direct gaze and both ears visible.
• The background should be plain, white, and without patterns.
• Head coverings or hats are not allowed, and both sides of the face must be visible.
• Eyeglasses that alter the appearance are not acceptable. It's recommended not to wear glasses for the photo.

These rules apply to both visa and passport photographs for Sri Lanka. The photograph must accompany all fully completed residence visa applications.

Get a Digital Sri Lanka Visa Photo Online

The Visafoto.com service is convenient for getting your Sri Lanka visa photo from home. Simply take a photo with a digital camera or smartphone against a white or off-white background and upload it to the website. You will get a professional-looking passport photo instantly.

The Visafoto tool enhances your photo in moments by:

• Resizing and cropping the image to the correct size.
• Refining the background.
• Correcting a tilted head.
• Resizing for online submissions.
• You will receive a digital copy for online submissions and a print-ready version.
• Guaranteed accuracy of 99.7%. If the photo isn't accepted, Visafoto offers a 100% refund.

Take a Sri Lanka Visa Photo with a Phone

Take a Sri Lanka visa photo with your smartphone using the 7ID App, supported by Visafoto.

Available for iPhone and Android, the 7ID visa photo app provides an easy platform for capturing and editing passport photos. The app is suitable for both online and physical submissions, making the photo editing process seamless.

Simply upload your image, select the appropriate country and document type, and take advantage of 7ID's fine-tuned features:

• Automatic resizing: 7ID's app minimizes manual editing by automatically resizing your image to the required passport size, precisely positioning the head and eyes.
• Background color adjustment: A simple left drag on the slider allows you to change the background to universal colors (such as white, light gray, or blue), as required by official document guidelines.
• Printable templates: Once your passport photo editing is complete, 7ID provides a print-ready template that adheres to your specified size requirements. Suitable for standard paper sizes such as 10×15 cm, A4, A5 or B5. Print at home or your local print shop.
• Advanced Editing (Expert feature): 7ID's Advanced Passport Photo Editor uses sophisticated algorithms to improve image quality, enhance edits, and remove backgrounds flawlessly for critical documents such as passports or DV lottery applications.
• 24/7 Support and Quality Checks (Expert feature): With the Expert feature, you get uninterrupted support and image checks to ensure the best results. If the image is unsatisfactory or rejected, a photo replacement is available.

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Fees

The cost of a tourist visa for Sri Lanka depends on both the nationality of the applicant and the location from which they are applying. Below are the details:

Nationals of SAARC countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) are charged a fee of US$20 for an ETA for a 30-day double-entry tourist visa. Other nationalities are charged US$50 for the same.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from ETA fees.

The ETA for the 30-day tourist visa with a double entry facility is US$30 for SAARC nationals and US$55 for other nationalities.

Travelers from SAARC countries pay a fee of US$25, while those from other countries pay US$60 for the 30-day double-entry tourist visa.

The 30-day double-entry tourist visa fees are US$30 for SAARC countries and US$55 for other countries.

Indian nationals can obtain a tourist visa for Sri Lanka from INR 1999.

Sri Lanka tourist visa extension fees in 2024 are as follows:

• The first extension costs $60, and the visa will be extended for 60 days.
• The second extension costs $150, with an extension period of 90 days.
• The third extension costs $200, providing an additional 90 days of extension.

Prices may vary depending on your nationality.

Note that these prices may vary from time to time, and it's recommended to check the current fees on the official ETA website .

With convenient tools like Visafoto and the 7ID app, you can take perfect and compliant visa, passport, and ID photos anytime, anywhere.

Download and install the Visafoto (7ID) app on your phone!

• Access to complete photo history
• Support for paid photos through the in-app chat
• 7ID includes free QR and barcode storage, free PIN code storage, and a free signature maker

Visit the 7ID website for more information >

• Sri Lanka Holiday Guru Magazine

Sri Lanka Survival Guide

Visa extensions in sri lanka.

You can renew a 30-day tourist visa twice, for 30 days each time. Contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Extensions are not hard to get but require jumping through some bureaucratic hoops and downloading some forms.

To complete the process in one day, arrive at the Department of Immigration and Emigration (4th Floor, Suhurupaya, Sri Subhuthipura Road, Battaramulla. Directions ) by 10 am and expect it to take at least four hours.

Can I extend the tourist visa for more than 60 days?

A further extension would be considered by the Department of Immigration and Emigration only with valid reasons.

What are the documents I need to extend the visit visa?

Filled application form

1 Passport photo

Return ticket (optional)

Cash / credit card for the visa extension

Download here Sri Lanka Visa Extension Application Form. Take the photo and paste it on the appropriate place of the application. In case you can’t find a printer the printed form is available at the venue including an instant photo booth.

Should the applicant be physically present to extend the Sri Lankan Visa?

It is compulsory for the applicant to be present to collect the visa.

Where can I get a tourist visa renewal Application Form?

Head office of the Department of Immigration & Emigration, Colombo.

Download printable versions of the Application Forms  here

What are the other conditions to renew my tourist visa?

Your intended stay in Sri Lanka should end at least two months before the expiry date of your travel document.

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Last Modified: August 24, 2024

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Travel Advisory September 12, 2024

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect upcoming presidential election. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest and terrorism.

Country Summary: Sri Lanka is set to hold presidential elections on September 21, 2024. Demonstrations could occur before, during, or after the election. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones , as such gatherings can turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the country information page for more information.

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and X/Twitter . 
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp. 

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.  

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the  Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by  e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the  Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations  in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the  Embassy of Sri Lanka website  for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies.  Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions 
• Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys ;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel. 

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited  dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port. 

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance.  If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners. 

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)  

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For Additional Travel Information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Do you need a visa to go to Sri Lanka?

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Do you need a visa to visit Sri Lanka? Probably, and we can tell you how to get one © Val Shevchenko / Shutterstock

Sri Lanka may be known as the teardrop isle (due to its distinctive shape), but the country’s refreshingly straightforward visa system shouldn’t be a source of too much anguish for travelers. 

Here’s our guide to navigating the entry requirements for visiting Sri Lanka as a tourist, with information on visa types, costs, and how to apply for one.

Who needs to apply for a visa for Sri Lanka?

With the exception of citizens from Singapore , the Republic of Maldives , and the Republic of Seychelles , all travelers will require a visa to visit Sri Lanka. Fortunately the process for acquiring one is relatively straightforward. 

Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

For trips to Sri Lanka of up to 30 days, visas (also known as ETAs) can be obtained from the government’s Department of Immigration and Emigration website . The application involves completing a simple form and making an online payment, with no need to submit passport copies, documents, or photographs. An application is also available upon arrival.

It costs US$50 for a double-entry, 30-day tourist visa (US$20 for residents of Afghanistan , Bangladesh , Bhutan , India , Nepal , and Pakistan ). Two-day transit visas are free and only necessary if you plan to leave the airport. There is also no charge for tourist visas for children under the age of 12. 

It’s possible to check the status of an ETA online. Once approved, print out a copy of the ETA approval notice to show immigration officials on arrival in Sri Lanka. For an ETA to be valid, you must arrive in Sri Lanka within three months from the date of issue. 

ETAs can also be applied for through travel agents and in person at Sri Lankan embassies or consulates ahead of a trip. Embassies can offer longer visas, such as those granting entry for 90 days. 

In addition to an ETA, visitors to Sri Lanka need to make sure they have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival, a confirmed return ticket and sufficient funds to meet their expenses during the stay.

Can I apply for a tourist visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?

A limited facility runs at Bandaranaike International Airport (Sri Lanka’s main international airport), offering ETAs on arrival. These visas cost more than those obtained before travel (US$60; or US$25 for residents of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Pakistan). It’s also worth noting if your visa application is unsuccessful for any reason, you will be returned to your original destination.

How do I extend a tourist visa in Sri Lanka?

You can renew a 30-day tourist visa up to three times once in Sri Lanka. The initial extension is usually granted for 60 days, and the maximum length of a tourist visa is 270 days. Visitors wishing to apply for an extension should make sure they do so before their current visa expires and must ensure their passport is valid for at least two months after their intended stay. 

Applications can be submitted via the online visa extension portal . The fee depends on your nationality and length of stay. Contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo should you need further advice on extending your stay.   

This article was first published Mar 26, 2021 and updated Oct 15, 2023.

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Department of Immigration and Emigration

Sri lankan identity overseas.

General Information

IMPORTANT NOTICE

With effect from 17th April 2024, all Tourist or Business travelers to Sri Lanka must have e-Visa for entering in to Sri Lanka. Please visit https://www.srilankaevisa.lk for more information.

When applying e-Visa by third parties payments are to be made through the arrangement made in website https://www.srilankaevisa.lk    Therefore, always ensure that the payments made by accessing to official e-Visa website and avoid making repayment at the port of entry to Sri Lanka.

What are the Working Hours?

• Acceptance of all physical applications at the Head Office of Department of Immigration & Emigration, Battaramulla: 8.30 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. (Token numbers are issued till 2.00 p.m. only)
• Collection of visa after submitting the applications may be collected after 2.30 hours from the time of submission of application. If any other date other than the date of submission application is assigned for collection visa, those visa can be collected from 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. on due date.
• Payment (shroff) counters close at 3.30 p.m. The office closes on Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays.

What is a Sri Lankan Visa?

A Sri Lankan visa is an endorsement on a passport or a similar document to facilitate the legal entry of non Sri Lankans into the country and to regulate the period of their stay and the conditions governing such stay.

What are the Types of Sri Lankan Visas?

There are three (03) kinds of visas which permit a person to enter and/or stay in Sri Lanka.

A Visit Visa is an entry permit signifying the consent of the Sri Lankan Government for the admission of a foreign national to the country.  The Visa contains details of the period of time and the condition/s of the stay.

There are two sub-categories which come under visit visas :-

Tourist Visa

A Tourist Visa is issued to bona-fide tourists who want to enter Sri Lanka for sightseeing or holidaying, visiting friends and relatives, medical treatments, participate in art, music and dance events, participate in sport events for a short period of time. This visa may be issued  a single, double or multiple entries.

Business Purpose Visa

A Business Purpose Visa is issued to foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka for business purposes for short period of time. This visa may be issued for single, double or multiple journeys.

Visit Visa Extension

Click here for more information.

Residence Visa

A residence visa is a permit for a non-Sri Lankan to obtain residence facilities for special purposes.

There are thirteen (13) sub-categories which come under residence visas

What Eligibility category do I belong?

Employment Category

• Professional personnel whose services are required for projects approved by the government.
• Expatriate personnel employed in projects under Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka and their dependents.
• Personnel employed at banks and their dependents
• Personnel employed in a registered private companies / registered private institutions
• Personnel employed in Colombo Port City  
• Personnel who desire to invest monetary capital in Sri Lanka
• Personnel who engage in business activities in Sri Lanka
• Members of the Clergy
• Personnel who engage in religious activities  
• University Students
• Students in Educational Institutions approved by the government
• Volunteers  

Personnel attached to Non-Governmental Organizations or International Non-Government Organizations and their dependents

Registered Indians covered by the 1954 Indo-Lanka Agreement .-  - Extension only

Ex- Sri Lankans and their dependents

Family Members of a Sri Lankan

• Spouses and their dependents
• Children holding foreign nationality  

Diplomatic and Official visa

• Diplomats and officers who are attached to a foreign mission in Sri Lanka
• Their Spouse and dependants  

My Dream Home Visa Programme - Extension only for the current visa holders

Resident Guest Visa Programme- Extension only for the current visa holders

Medical Visa

• Personal who are under medical treatments
• Medical Assistant and dependents of the medical visa holder  
• Personal who has a pending court case in which he need to be appear before a court

Transit Visa

A Transit Visa is an entry permit granted to a foreign national for admission into Sri Lanka for a short period which is incidental and in the course of his journey to another destination.

Who are eligible for Visa Exemptions?

• Sri Lankan dual citizens.
• Children up to 21 years of age, whose birth has been registered under section 5(2) of Citizenship Act of 1948.
• Children under 21 years of age and born in Sri Lanka for Sri Lankan parents who are holding a foreign nationality.

Who are eligible for Gratis Visa?

The holder of a Diplomatic or Official Passport or a passport with a valid Diplomatic or Official endorsement. They will not be required to pay any fees for the visa as per the recommendation of the Line Ministry.

What are the countries Sri Lanka has entered into visa exemption agreements for Diplomatic/Official and Service Passport holders for their short term Diplomatic or Official visits?

Please see the list of countries and the allowed duration through the link here

What are the general eligibility requirements for Sri Lankan Visas?

Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration may grant or issue a visa to you if -

• Sri Lanka Immigration & Emigration is satisfied that you are suitable to enter Sri Lanka.
• Sri Lanka Immigration & Emigration approves the purpose for which you are entering Sri Lanka.
• You hold a passport valid for a minimum period of six months from the date you arrive in Sri Lanka.
• Sri Lanka Immigration & Emigration is satisfied that you have adequate funds for your maintenance whilst in Sri Lanka and for the payment of your return passage to the country which issued your passport.
• You are in possession of a written assurance (ticket) to return to the country of domicile or a visa to the next country of destination if you are a visit visa holder.

What are the general conditions of a Visit Visa?

• You should not engage in any form of employment, paid or unpaid, or in any trade or business other than that specified in the visa during the period of your stay in Sri Lanka.
• Your visa must be utilized before the date of expiry noted on the visa approval notice.
• Validity of your visa is subject to entry into Sri Lanka during the indicated entry period.
• It is a single, double or multiple entry for the tourist visa and single, double or multiple entry for business visa within the period mentioned in visa approval notice.
• Applications for the extension of all extendable visas should be made to the Department of Immigration and Emigration or online through the link here . The extension is single entry and it will be canceled once you leave the country.
• At present, business visa cannot be extended through online

What are the general conditions of a Residence Visa?

• You should not engage in any form of activity other than the condition of your visa
• It is a multiple entry visa

What are the general conditions of a Transit Visa?

If you are staying more than 24 hours to get your connecting flight, you have to apply for a transit visa at the port of entry on your arrival or from Sri Lankan Missions Abroad before your arrival. It is valid only for 48 hours.

Special Note:

Restricted nationals will not be able to apply tourist visa on arrival at the port of entry.

QUICK LINKS

• Citizenship
• Visa Services
• Border Management
• Image Gallery

RELATED LINKS

• President of Sri Lanka
• Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka
• Electronic Travel Authorization
• Ministry of Public Security
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• Dep. of Immigration and Emigration
• "Suhurupaya", Sri Subhuthipura Road,
• Battaramulla.
• 1962 / +94 112 101 500
• +94 011 2885 358
• controller@Immigration.gov.lk