Sri Lanka has scrapped the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee for visitors from 40 countries, among them India, the UK, the US, and China. Travellers covered under the scheme will now be issued a free 30-day visa with double-entry access. Authorities, however, have made it clear that passengers must still obtain an ETA online before travelling, despite the fee being removed.
The change took effect on May 25, 2026. Citizens of the countries covered by the scheme can now enter Sri Lanka without paying visa processing fees for visits lasting up to 30 days. The visa also allows travellers to enter the country twice within that period.
Even with the fee removed, visitors are still required to secure an ETA online before arriving in Sri Lanka.
How The Free ETA Works
Under the no-fee system, travellers can complete the ETA process online before departure, a move aimed at easing arrivals and cutting queues at Sri Lankan airports.
The authorisation remains valid for stays of up to 30 days and includes a double-entry provision, allowing visitors to leave and re-enter the country once during that period. Passengers are still expected to obtain approval digitally before boarding, as visa-on-arrival facilities are largely being phased out for eligible travellers.
Applying For The ETA
Travellers must apply through Sri Lanka’s official ETA portal before departure.
Applicants are required to complete and submit the online form, with no processing fee charged under the revised system.
Once approved, the confirmation is sent by email and linked electronically to the traveller’s passport. Even so, carrying a printed or digital copy of the approval at the airport is still advised.
Visitors planning to remain in the country for longer than 30 days can apply for an extension after arrival, though the usual extension charges will continue to apply.
Some Important Rules Travellers Should Know
Visitors who paid ETA charges before the revised policy took effect on May 25, 2026, will not receive refunds for earlier applications.
The 30-day validity period does not restart after leaving the country. Travellers using the double-entry facility can return once, but only for the remaining balance of the original 30 days.
Nationals of the Maldives are covered under a separate reciprocal arrangement and are eligible for a free 90-day tourist visa instead of the standard 30-day stay.
Documents Required on Arrival
Passports must remain valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka.
Travellers may be asked to show a confirmed return or onward ticket at immigration.
Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the visit can also be requested by border officials.
Visitors are still required to complete a digital or physical disembarkation card before entering the country.
FAQs
What has Sri Lanka changed in its visa policy?
Sri Lanka has removed the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee for tourists from 40 countries.
Who is eligible for the free ETA?
Citizens of 40 countries, including India, the UK, the US, China and others, are eligible.
How long can travellers stay under the free ETA?
The ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days with a double-entry facility.
Do travellers still need to apply online?
Yes, the ETA must still be obtained online before travelling to Sri Lanka.
Can visitors extend their stay beyond 30 days?
Yes, extensions are possible, but standard extension fees apply within Sri Lanka.
