Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? You’re in for a tropical treat — with golden beaches, lush tea gardens, ancient temples, wildlife safaris and cultural marvels at every turn. But before you pack your bags and book that scenic train ride to Ella, there’s one important thing to take care of — your visa.
This complete Sri Lanka Visa Guide for Indians is designed to give you complete information you need in one place: how to apply, visa types, costs, documents required, common mistakes to avoid and even tips for first-time visitors. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymoon couple or family tourist, this guide will ensure your Sri Lanka travel is smooth, legal and stress-free.
Let’s simplify the process and get you one step closer to paradise!
Do Indians Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes. Indian citizens must apply for an e-Visa (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka for tourism.
Types of Sri Lanka Visas for Indians
Depending on your purpose of travel, Sri Lanka offers various visa categories for Indian citizens. Below are the main types explained clearly with key highlights for each:
1. Tourist ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
The Tourist ETA is the most commonly used visa by Indian travelers visiting Sri Lanka for tourism, leisure or visiting friends and family. It allows double entry and a stay of up to 30 days, which can be extended further after arrival.
Key Points:
- Apply online via www.eta.gov.lk
- Valid for 6 months (you must enter within this period)
- Extension possible up to 180 days
- No embassy visit required
- Ideal for families, couples and solo tourists
2. Business ETA
If you’re traveling to Sri Lanka for professional reasons, the Business ETA is the right visa. It allows Indians to attend meetings, conferences, short trainings or engage in business discussions without taking up employment.
Key Points:
- Valid for 30 days with multiple entries
- Must carry business invitation or supporting documents
- Cannot be used for any paid work or local employment
- Apply online just like the tourist ETA
- Best for entrepreneurs, consultants and trade delegates
3. Transit Visa
The Transit Visa is intended for Indian travelers with a layover in Sri Lanka exceeding 48 hours. It is ideal for those traveling to a third country and wishing to stop briefly in Colombo.
Key Points:
- Valid for up to 2 days only
- Free of charge or minimal fee
- Apply online or get it on arrival
- No visa required if transit is under 48 hours
- Great for short layovers and quick city tours
What is the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?
The ETA is an online travel permit that allows Indian tourists to enter Sri Lanka without visiting an embassy.
- Type: Tourist ETA
- Stay Duration: 30 days (Double Entry)
- Extendable: Yes, up to 180 days in total
- Processing Time: 24–48 hours
How to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA
Apply online through the official portal:
🌐 https://www.eta.gov.lk
Or via:
- Travel agents
- Airline services (like SriLankan Airlines)
- Mobile-friendly apps or authorized visa platforms
Documents Required
- Valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Confirmed return ticket
- Proof of hotel booking
- Sufficient funds (not always checked)
- A working email ID for confirmation
No need to upload passport scan or photo — just fill in your details and pay.
Also Read: International Travel Guide for Indians
Sri Lanka Transit Visa for Indians
- Needed only for stopovers exceeding 48 hours.
- Short layovers don’t need a visa.
- Transit visa is free or costs up to USD 10.
- Apply online or get it on arrival.
Sri Lanka Visa Fees for Indians (Tourist ETA)
- Tourist ETA Fees (30 Days): USD 20 (Rs 1,700)
- Children Under 12: Free
- Express Processing: Extra USD 5–10 may apply
Visa-Free or Discounted Visa Periods
- Sri Lanka occasionally offers visa-free entry for Indians during tourism drives.
- Always check official portal: www.eta.gov.lk
- These are limited-time offers and often seasonal.
Can You Extend the Visa?
Yes! Tourist visa can be extended up to 180 days.
- First extension: additional 60 days
- Second extension: further 90 days
- Apply at Department of Immigration & Emigration – Colombo
- Extension Fee: LKR 10,000–15,000 (~₹2,500–₹4,000)
Visa on Arrival for Indians — Is it Available?
Yes, but it’s highly recommended to apply for ETA online in advance. Visa on arrival is available at Bandaranaike International Airport but may involve longer queues and scrutiny.
Travel Insurance – Is it Mandatory?
- Not compulsory, but highly recommended.
- Covers hospital bills, delays or emergencies.
- Recommended insurers: TATA AIG, HDFC Ergo, ICICI Lombard.
Best Time to Apply For Sri Lanka Visa
- Apply 7–10 days before travel
- ETA is valid for 180 days from approval, for stays up to 30 days
- You can apply even 3 months in advance
ETA Status Check
Track your status at: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visastatus.jsp
You’ll also receive an email confirmation. No print is needed, but carry it as backup.
Entry Points for ETA Holders
You can enter through:
- Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo)
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA)
- Seaports and Land borders (via ferry or cruise)
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Inaccurate passport number or expiry
- Mismatched personal details
- Applying with less than 6 months passport validity
- Previous overstays in Sri Lanka
Things Indian Tourists Should Avoid
- Don’t touch or take selfies with Buddha statues.
- Don’t wear clothing with Buddha images.
- Avoid discussing civil war, politics or religion.
- Overstay = heavy fines.
- Drones require prior approval.
Important Contacts for Indian Tourists
- Sri Lanka Immigration Dept.: +94 11 532 9300
- Indian High Commission (Colombo): +94-773727832
- ETA Support Email: eta@immigration.gov.lk
- Colombo Airport Info: +94 11 225 2861
First-Time Travel Tips for Indians
- Carry modest clothing for temples.
- Currency: 1 INR ≈ 3.6 LKR (Sri Lankan Rupee).
- Buy a local SIM (Dialog, Mobitel) at the airport.
- Use PickMe app for local transport (like Uber).
- Vegetarian food is available but confirm before ordering.
Final Checklist for Indian Travelers to Sri Lanka
- Indian passport (6+ months validity)
- Approved ETA (print optional, email enough)
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel/resort booking
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Local currency (LKR) or Forex card
- Modest clothing (for temples)
Sri Lanka Visa FAQs for Indians
Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka for tourism. It is a quick and fully online process that allows short-term stays.
What is the validity of the Sri Lanka ETA for Indians?
The tourist ETA is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka. It allows two entries during this period. You can extend the visa after arrival if you wish to stay longer, up to 180 days in total (with two extensions).
How can Indian citizens apply for the Sri Lanka ETA?
Indians can apply directly online at the official portal www.eta.gov.lk.
Steps:
Fill in personal and travel details
Pay the visa fee (USD 20) via debit/credit card
Receive ETA approval via email within 24–48 hours
Alternatively, you can apply via authorized travel agents or airlines, but it’s best to use the official site to avoid extra charges.
Is Visa on Arrival available for Indian tourists?
Yes, Sri Lanka offers Visa on Arrival for Indians. However, it’s highly recommended to apply for ETA online before travel. This avoids long queues and possible delays at immigration.
How much does a Sri Lanka tourist visa (ETA) cost for Indians?
The official fee is USD 20, which is approximately ₹1,700–1,800. Children under 12 years of age are exempt from visa fees. Be cautious of third-party websites charging extra service fees.
What documents are required for the Sri Lanka ETA application?
You don’t need to upload documents while applying online. However, you should have the following details ready:
Valid Indian passport (minimum 6 months validity from travel date)
Return or onward flight ticket
Hotel/resort confirmation
Valid email ID for communication
Credit/debit card for payment
Carry these during travel, as immigration officers may request to see them.
Can I extend my Sri Lanka tourist visa?
Yes. The tourist ETA can be extended:
First extension: +60 days
Second extension: +90 days
Maximum stay allowed: 180 days
Extension must be done in person at the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Colombo. Fees range from LKR 10,000–15,000 (~₹2,500–₹4,000). Always apply before the original visa expires.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Sri Lanka?
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but strongly recommended. It protects against:
Medical emergencies
Trip cancellation
Baggage loss
COVID-related expenses
Buy a policy with at least USD 50,000 coverage. Recommended Indian providers: Tata AIG, HDFC Ergo, ICICI Lombard.
Can I re-enter Sri Lanka using the same ETA?
Yes. The Sri Lanka tourist ETA allows double entry, meaning you can enter the country twice within the 30-day validity period. After that, you’ll need to reapply or extend.
What if my ETA is rejected? Can I reapply?
Yes, if your ETA is rejected due to errors or document mismatch, you can correct and reapply after 24 hours. Ensure your passport number, personal details and travel dates are correctly entered. If rejected repeatedly, consult the Sri Lanka High Commission.
Can first-time international travelers from India apply for Sri Lanka ETA?
Absolutely. Even if you haven’t traveled abroad before, you can apply for a Sri Lanka visa. First-time travelers should ensure:
All information is accurate
Documents like hotel booking and return ticket are ready
Sufficient funds for stay are available
Can I work in Sri Lanka on a tourist ETA?
No. Tourist visas do not allow employment or any form of paid activity. If you want to work in Sri Lanka, your employer must sponsor an Employment Visa, which is a separate category.
What happens if I overstay my Sri Lanka tourist visa?
Overstaying is a serious offense. Penalties include:
Daily fine (varies based on duration)
Deportation
Possible ban from re-entering Sri Lanka
Always renew or extend your visa before expiry to avoid legal trouble.
Can unmarried couples travel to Sri Lanka?
Yes. There are no restrictions on Indian unmarried couples visiting Sri Lanka. Hotels generally do not ask for marriage certificates and your visa application will not be affected.
Is vegetarian or Indian food easily available?
Yes. Major cities like Colombo, Kandy and Galle have many Indian restaurants and vegetarian options. Popular chains like Chana’s, Shanmugas and Indian Summer are well-known.
Is alcohol allowed for Indian tourists in Sri Lanka?
Yes, alcohol is legal and available to tourists in bars, restaurants and liquor shops. However, alcohol is not sold on Poya Days (full moon Buddhist holidays) and public drinking is discouraged.
Is my ETA valid across all parts of Sri Lanka?
Yes. Once approved, the ETA allows travel across all regions of Sri Lanka — including Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, Jaffna and more.
What currency is used in Sri Lanka? Can I use Indian Rupees (INR)?
The local currency is Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). INR is not accepted in most places. It’s recommended to exchange INR to LKR at the airport or use international debit/credit cards. 1 INR ≈ 3.5–3.7 LKR (approximate rate).
Do I need to carry a printed copy of the ETA?
It is not mandatory, as ETA is electronically linked to your passport. However, it is strongly advised to carry a printed copy or keep a PDF on your phone for reference at immigration.
Can I buy a local SIM card at the Sri Lankan airport?
Yes. SIM cards from major providers like Dialog and Mobitel are available at Colombo airport. Plans start from LKR 500–1,000 and include data + local calls — perfect for tourists.
