Visa (ETA) Guide

Step-by-step Electronic Travel Authorization guide

Visa Types
Choose the right ETA for your travel purpose
Tourist ETA
For tourism and sightseeing purposes
Duration:30 days
Fee:$50
Processing:24-48 hours
Business ETA
For business meetings and conferences
Duration:30 days
Fee:$50
Processing:24-48 hours
Transit ETA
For passengers transiting through Sri Lanka
Duration:2 days
Fee:$25
Processing:24 hours
Application Steps
Follow these steps to complete your ETA application

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

30 minutescurrent

Prepare all necessary documents before starting your ETA application

  • Valid passport (6 months validity)
  • Digital passport photo
  • Email address
  • Credit/Debit card for payment

Step 2: Visit Official ETA Website

5 minutespending

Access the official Sri Lanka ETA portal

  • Official website: eta.gov.lk
  • Stable internet connection
  • Desktop/laptop recommended

Step 3: Complete Application Form

20 minutespending

Fill in personal and travel details accurately

  • Personal information
  • Travel itinerary
  • Accommodation details
  • Port of entry

Step 4: Upload Documents & Photo

10 minutespending

Upload passport copy and recent photograph

  • Passport bio page scan
  • Recent passport photo
  • File size under 1MB
  • JPG/PNG format

Step 5: Pay ETA Fee

5 minutespending

Complete payment using credit/debit card

  • Valid credit/debit card
  • Billing address
  • CVV code
  • Card expiration date

Step 6: Receive ETA Approval

24-48 hourspending

Wait for electronic approval via email

  • Email confirmation
  • ETA reference number
  • Print approval copy
Important Information

Before You Apply

  • • Apply at least 48 hours before travel
  • • Use the official website only
  • • Double-check all information
  • • Keep reference number safe

After Approval

  • • Print ETA approval
  • • Carry passport copy
  • • Show approval at immigration
  • • ETA is valid for 6 months
Required Documents
PassportRequired
Valid for at least 6 months from arrival date
PhotographRequired
Recent passport-sized photo (35x45mm)
Flight DetailsRequired
Confirmed return flight tickets
AccommodationRequired
Hotel booking or accommodation details
Sufficient FundsRequired
Proof of adequate funds for stay
Travel Insurance
Recommended but not mandatory
Quick Links
Official ETA WebsiteDownload Application GuideCheck Application Status
Processing Timeline
Application Submitted
Immediate
Under Review
24 hours
Decision Made
24-48 hours
ETA Issued
Email notification
Need Help?
Department of Immigration
Hotline: +94 11 532 9000
Email: eta@immigration.gov.lk
Working Hours
Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM