Sri Lanka eVisa

Introduction of Sri Lanka ETA/eVisa

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for short visits to Sri Lanka, issued electronically. It is a system introduced by the government of Sri Lanka to provide a more efficient, reliable, and simplified service to visitors to the country. ETA holders will be granted a 30-day short visit visa at the port of entry in Sri Lanka. This system was first introduced on 1st January 2012 and has since been the standard method for obtaining a short-term visa to Sri Lanka.

The ETA is an online system that eliminates the need for passport copies, documents, or photographs. Visitors can easily apply for their ETA online, providing all the necessary information such as passport details, travel plans, and personal information. The application process is simple, and applicants can expect a quick response time. Once approved, the ETA is sent electronically to the applicant's email address.

One of the significant advantages of the ETA system is that there is no need to endorse the ETA on the passport. This makes the process more convenient for visitors, as they do not need to visit an embassy or consulate to obtain a visa. Additionally, the ETA is valid for six months from the date of approval, providing visitors with ample time to plan their trip.

The ETA system has made travel to Sri Lanka more accessible for visitors, resulting in an increase in the number of tourists visiting the country. The system has made it easier for travelers to obtain a visa and has reduced the time and effort involved in the application process. Additionally, the ETA has reduced the burden on the embassies and consulates, freeing up resources to handle other tasks.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system has been a welcome addition to Sri Lanka's visa process. It has made travel to the country more accessible, more efficient, and more convenient. The online application process has simplified the visa application process for visitors, and the absence of an endorsement on the passport has made it even more convenient. The ETA system has played a crucial role in increasing the number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka, contributing to the country's economy and tourism industry.

What is an ETA?

Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is an online system that enables travelers to apply for and receive their visa authorization electronically, without the need for physical paperwork. As you mentioned, the ETA is a digital authorization that allows foreign nationals to visit Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to 30 days. Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, the ETA holder's passport will be stamped with the short visit visa. This system provides a convenient and streamlined process for travelers, and also helps to reduce the environmental impact of visa processing.

On arrival at the port of entry in Sri Lanka

Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, travelers with an approved ETA should present their passport and ETA approval notice to the immigration officer at the port of entry. The immigration officer will then verify the details and issue a short visit visa, allowing the traveler to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days. It is advisable for travelers to carry a printed or digital copy of their ETA approval notice with them when they travel to Sri Lanka, as it may be requested by immigration officials. This can help to expedite the immigration clearance process and avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.

What is a Sri Lanka evisa?

Sri Lanka eVisa is an electronic visa that allows foreign nationals to visit Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit purposes. It is a simpler and more convenient way to obtain a visa for Sri Lanka, as it eliminates the need for applicants to visit an embassy or consulate in person to apply for a visa.

The Sri Lanka eVisa can be applied for online through the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. Applicants need to fill out an online application form and provide their personal and travel details, passport information, and a few other required documents. Once the application is submitted and approved, the eVisa will be sent to the applicant's email.

Types of Sri Lanka evisa 

There are three types of Sri Lanka eVisa available for foreign travelers:-

• ETA for Tourist purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days

  • Sightseeing, holidaying

  • Visiting friends and relatives

  • Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and yoga

  • Participate in sporting events, competitions and activities relating to cultural performance

• ETA for Business purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days

  • Participate in business meetings and negotiations         

  • Participate in Conferences, workshops and seminar         

  • To take part in Short term training programs (less than one month)        

  • Participate in art, music and dance events        

  • Participating in religious events        

  • Participate in Symposium

• ETA for Transit up to 02 days Free of Charge basis (Documentary proof needed)    

  • Transiting through Sri Lanka

ETA for Tourist purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days

Sri Lanka eVisa for tourist purposes with double entry allows travelers to enter Sri Lanka for a maximum stay of 30 days per entry, and allows for a total of two entries within a validity period of 180 days from the date of issue. This means that the traveler can enter Sri Lanka twice within the 180-day period, with each stay not exceeding 30 days. The eVisa is suitable for travelers who plan to visit Sri Lanka for tourism or leisure purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting friends or family, or engaging in recreational activities.

ETA for Business purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days

Sri Lanka eVisa for business purposes with double entry allows travelers to enter Sri Lanka for a maximum stay of 30 days per entry, and allows for a total of two entries within a validity period of 180 days from the date of issue. This means that the traveler can enter Sri Lanka twice within the 180-day period, with each stay not exceeding 30 days. The eVisa is suitable for travelers who are visiting Sri Lanka for business-related activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, or engaging in trade or commerce. It is important to note that the eVisa is not suitable for those who plan to work in Sri Lanka or engage in any form of employment or paid activities.

ETA for Transit up to 02 days Free of Charge basis (Documentary proof needed)

Sri Lanka eVisa for transit purposes allows travelers to transit through Sri Lanka for up to 2 days free of charge, provided that they have a confirmed onward ticket and other required documentation. This eVisa is suitable for travelers who are transiting through Sri Lanka on their way to another destination, and who plan to spend less than 48 hours in the country. It is important to note that travelers must provide documentary proof of their onward travel arrangements, such as a confirmed flight ticket, to be eligible for the free transit eVisa. Additionally, if the traveler plans to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 2 days or engage in any activities beyond transit, they will need to apply for the appropriate type of eVisa.

Required documents for a Sri Lanka evisa application

The required documents for a Sri Lanka eVisa application may vary depending on the purpose of your visit. However, in general, the following documents are usually required:

• A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.

• A scanned color copy of the passport bio page.

• Proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or itinerary.

• For business visits, a letter from the inviting organization in Sri Lanka, outlining the purpose of the visit and the details of the business activities to be conducted.

• For transit visits, a confirmed ticket for the onward journey and a visa for the next destination (if required).
  To enter Sri Lanka, travelers are required to provide proof of adequate financial resources to cover their expenses during their stay in the country. This is to ensure that the traveler has the means to support themselves and their dependents (if applicable) without requiring assistance from the Sri Lankan government or other entities, and to prevent any potential violations of immigration laws.

It is important to note that the Sri Lanka eVisa application process may require additional supporting documents, depending on the purpose of your visit. Therefore, it is recommended that you check the requirements and guidelines on the Sri Lanka ETA website before submitting your application.

How to apply for a Sri Lanka evisa

ETA application can be submitted using one of the following options:

• By the applicant

• By Third party

• At Sri Lanka Overseas Missions

• At the head office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DI&E), Colombo

• On arrival at the port of entry in Sri Lanka

To apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa, follow these steps:

• Go to the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) website: 

• Click on the "Apply" button and fill out the online application form with your personal and travel details, passport information, and a few other required documents.

• Review the application form to ensure that all the information is accurate and complete.

• Pay the eVisa fee using a valid credit or debit card.

• Submit the application and wait for the eVisa to be processed. Most applications are processed within 24-72 hours, but it may take longer in some cases.

• Once the eVisa is approved, it will be sent to the email address provided in the application form.

• Print out a copy of the eVisa and carry it with you when you travel to Sri Lanka, along with your passport.

It is important to note that the Sri Lanka eVisa application process may require additional supporting documents, depending on the purpose of your visit. Therefore, it is recommended that you check the requirements and guidelines on the ETA website before submitting your application.

Sri Lanka evisa processing time

The Sri Lanka eVisa processing time is generally 24-72 hours from the time of submission of the application. However, in some cases, it may take longer, particularly if additional verification is required. Therefore, it is recommended that applicants apply for the eVisa well in advance of their intended travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time. It is also important to ensure that all the information provided in the application is accurate and complete, as any errors or omissions may delay the processing of the eVisa. Additionally, applicants should check their email regularly, as the eVisa will be sent to the email address provided in the application form

Sri Lanka evisa fees and payment methods

The fees for Sri Lanka eVisa vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. Here are the current fees : 

• Tourist eVisa with double entry for 30 days: US$35

• Business eVisa with double entry for 30 days: US$40

• Transit eVisa for up to 2 days: Free of charge

Payment for the eVisa can be made online using a valid credit or debit card. The payment gateway accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover cards. It is important to note that the payment is non-refundable, even if the eVisa application is rejected or if the traveler decides not to travel to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka evisa validity and extension

The validity of the Sri Lanka eVisa depends on the type of visa and the duration of stay. Here are the general guidelines:

• Tourist eVisa with double entry for 30 days: Valid for 180 days from the date of issue, allows for two entries, and each stay not exceeding 30 days.

• Business eVisa with double entry for 30 days: Valid for 180 days from the date of issue, allows for two entries, and each stay not exceeding 30 days.

• Transit eVisa for up to 2 days: Valid for a single entry for up to 2 days.

It is important to note that the Sri Lanka eVisa cannot be extended beyond its original validity period. If a traveler wishes to stay in Sri Lanka beyond the eVisa's expiration date, they must apply for a new eVisa

Tips for a successful Sri Lanka evisa application

Here are some tips to help ensure a successful Sri Lanka eVisa application:

Apply in advance: Apply for the eVisa well in advance of your intended travel date, as processing times may vary and there could be unexpected delays.

Provide accurate information: Fill out the eVisa application form carefully and accurately, providing all required information. Any mistakes or omissions may result in delays or even rejection of the application.

Check validity of passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.

Show sufficient funds: Ensure that you can provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Sri Lanka, as this is a requirement for entry.

Follow the instructions: Follow all instructions provided by the Sri Lankan government and the eVisa application portal carefully, to avoid any issues with the application process.

Keep a copy of the approval notice: Once you receive the eVisa approval notice, print a copy and carry it with you along with your passport for presentation at the port of entry.

Be honest: Finally, be honest in your application and during any interviews with immigration officials. Any false information or misrepresentations can lead to rejection of the eVisa or even deportation from Sri Lanka.

Benefits of applying for a Sri Lanka evisa

There are several benefits of applying for a Sri Lanka eVisa:

• Convenience: The eVisa can be applied for online from anywhere in the world, eliminating the need for applicants to visit an embassy or consulate in person to apply for a visa.

• Time-saving: The online application process is straightforward and quick, with most applicants receiving their eVisa within 24-72 hours of submitting their application.

• Cost-effective: The eVisa is generally more affordable than a traditional visa, as there are no additional fees for submitting the application in person or through a visa processing agency.

• Flexibility: The eVisa is valid for a maximum of 30 days and can be used for a single entry into Sri Lanka, allowing travelers to plan their trip according to their preferred schedule.

• Secure: The Sri Lanka eVisa system is highly secure, with robust data protection and encryption measures in place to protect applicants' personal and financial information.

• Environmentally friendly: The eVisa system is paperless, which reduces the environmental impact of visa processing and eliminates the need for physical paperwork.

Overall, the Sri Lanka eVisa offers a convenient, cost-effective, and secure way for travelers to obtain a visa for their visit to Sri Lanka.

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