Visa policy of Sri Lanka

Visa policy of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka requires most foreign visitors to obtain a visa either in advance or on arrival, except for nationals of certain visa-exempt countries. Here’s a breakdown of the visa requirements, exemptions, and procedures for traveling to Sri Lanka.


Visa Exemptions

Citizens of the following countries can visit Sri Lanka without a visa for the specified durations:

  • Maldives: 90 days
  • Seychelles: 60 days (90 days within any 1 year)
  • Hong Kong, Singapore, Czech Republic: 30 days

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) & e-Visa

Sri Lanka provides an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or e-Visa for tourists and business travelers. Most visitors can apply online for a 30-day e-Visa, which can be extended.

  • Tourism e-Visa: Valid for 30 days, single-entry. Multiple entries available for business travelers.
  • Free e-Visa: Citizens of China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand can apply for a gratis (free) e-Visa for 30 days.

Visa on Arrival

Citizens from countries not visa-exempt and without e-Visa access can obtain a visa on arrival at Sri Lankan entry points. This visa is valid for up to 30 days for tourists and can be extended.

Note: Visa on arrival is generally discouraged as approval is not guaranteed.


Planned Visa-Free Travel Program (October 2024)

A pilot program was proposed to offer visa-free travel to 35 countries including the USA, UK, Canada, Russia, Thailand, and Indonesia starting in October 2024. However, the plan is awaiting parliamentary approval and has not been implemented yet.


Visa Requirements in Advance

Citizens of the following countries must obtain a visa in advance before entering Sri Lanka:

  • Cameroon
  • Côte d’Ivoire
  • Ghana
  • Nigeria
  • North Korea
  • Syria

These travelers must submit additional documents such as police clearance reports and proof of accommodation.


Gratis Visa on Arrival (for 7 Countries)

Due to changes in the e-Visa system, citizens of the following 7 countries can get a gratis visa on arrival for tourism purposes, valid for 30 days:

  • China
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Malaysia
  • Russia
  • Thailand

Non-Ordinary Passport Holders

Diplomatic, official, and service passport holders from certain countries such as India, China, Brazil, and Russia can enter Sri Lanka without a visa for short stays of 30 to 90 days.


Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement

Travelers from yellow fever-endemic countries (e.g., Brazil, Ghana, Nigeria) must present a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate upon arrival.


Visa Fees and Application

Visa fees for tourism and business e-Visas vary based on nationality and visa duration:

  • 30-day single-entry: Free for specific countries like China, India, Indonesia, etc.
  • 6-month double-entry: $35 for SAARC countries and $75 for non-SAARC countries.
  • Longer durations (up to 10 years): $200 to $1,000 depending on the visa type and number of entries.

Recent Changes and Updates

  • August 2024: The Supreme Court temporarily suspended the new e-Visa system, requiring travelers to obtain visas on arrival.
  • September 2024: Sri Lanka reinstated its e-Visa system, and planned to offer visa-free access to tourists from 38 countries to reduce overcrowding at visa counters.

FAQs About Sri Lanka Visa Policy

1. Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes, unless you’re from a visa-exempt country like Maldives, Singapore, or Seychelles, or if you’re eligible for a gratis e-Visa.

2. Can I get a visa on arrival?
Yes, but it’s generally discouraged. It’s better to apply for an e-Visa in advance if possible.

3. Which countries can visit Sri Lanka without a visa?
Countries like Maldives, Seychelles, Singapore, and Hong Kong enjoy visa-free entry for short stays.

4. How long does an e-Visa last?
The standard e-Visa lasts 30 days, and you can apply for an extension.

5. Is there a visa-free travel program coming up?
A visa-free program for 35 countries was proposed for October 2024, but it hasn’t been implemented yet.

6. Are there any vaccination requirements?
Yes, travelers from yellow fever-endemic countries must present a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.