A Transit Visa is an entry permit granted to a foreign national for admission into Sri Lanka for a brief period which is incidental and during his journey to another destination.
When You Need a Transit Visa in Colombo?
A Sri Lanka Transit ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is required for most nationalities if staying more than 48 hours. depending on your nationality, the duration of your stay, and whether you plan to leave the airport.
If you stay inside the airport transit area and your layover is less than 48 hours, passengers are not required to pay the ETA processing fee.
If you plan to leave the airport or your transit is more than 48 hours, you may need a transit visa.
Visa-Free Transit for Some Countries
Some countries (like the Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore) have visa-free access to Sri Lanka and do not need a transit visa.
Transit Visa in Colombo - Rules Must Know
A transit visa allows passengers to get a single entry for 2 days. Passengers to transit through Sri Lanka Sea/Airports and to enter the destination country within such period where the visa period cannot be extended as transit further.
Here’s what you need to know:
The Sri Lanka Transit Visa is free if you’re staying for less than 48 hours.
A confirmed onward ticket and a valid passport (6 months validity) are required.
How to Apply for a Transit Visa in Colombo?
The applicants themselves or a third party on their behalf can apply for a transit visa through the following methods:
Online – Submit a visa online application via the Sri Lanka Immigration Services website.
Visa on Arrival – Available for eligible nationalities at Colombo airport.
Sri Lankan Embassy/Consulate – Apply in advance if required by your nationality.
Important note:
Check to see if your nationality is qualified for visa-free transit or if there are any extra restrictions.
If you are confused about your visa requirements, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Cost
For transit periods of up to two days, the ETA is free of charge. For longer stays (48 hours), fees apply based on nationality.
Documentation
While applying online, you may need to provide basic personal and travel details (Proof of air ticket/sea passage). For longer stays or specific circumstances, additional documentation might be required.
Activities not allowed
You cannot work in Sri Lanka, whether paid, unpaid, self-employed, or in any business activity.
You cannot extend your stay long-term by making frequent or consecutive visits.
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If your Sri Lanka visa application is denied, you must identify the cause for the refusal and take appropriate action.
1. Identify the Reason for Rejection
The first is to review your rejection notice for the exact reasons why your visa application was denied. Understanding the specific reason will allow you to address the problem more effectively.
Common reasons for Rejection include:
Incorrect or incomplete applications include errors in personal information, passport numbers, or trip dates.
Invalid or missing documentation: A lack of necessary supporting documents, such as proof of further travel or adequate financial evidence.
Passport validity issues: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your travel date.
Previous immigration breaches include overstays and visa infractions in Sri Lanka or other countries.
Security concerns: Issues raised during background checks.
2. Review and Reapply
Once you have established why you were rejected, go through your application and supporting documents meticulously to correct any errors or fill in any gaps.
If you were rejected due to small errors or omitted documents, you can correct the issue and apply again.
Ensure that everything is accurate and in accordance with your supporting documents.
Confirm the authenticity of the passport and necessary travel information.Please provide all essential financial and travel documentation.
3. Contact Sri Lanka Immigration
If your application was denied due to a background check issue or other unclear reasons, consider reaching out to the Department of Immigration & Emigration of Sri Lanka or the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy/Consulate. They can:
Provide insights into the reason for rejection.
Advise on additional documentation requirements.
Guide you through a manual review process if needed.
4. Apply for a Visa Through an Embassy
If your ETA application was refused, you may need to apply for a Sri Lanka visa in person at an embassy or consulate. This will require more paperwork and a longer processing time but offers a greater chance of approval in challenging circumstances.
5. Seek Professional Assistance
Hire a reputable visa service provider to guide the reapplication process to go smoothly. The experts can:
Validate your documents as complete and accurate.
Provide suggestions to improve your application.
Help you navigate the appeal or reapplication process successfully.
Final Thoughts
A rejected Sri Lanka visa will not prevent you from visiting the country. You can improve your chances of getting a visa acceptance by determining the reason for rejection, making the appropriate changes, and consulting professionals if needed.
If you need help with your visa application, call us for experienced advice and a hassle-free experience!
Sri Lanka's eVisa (Electronic Travel Authorization - ETA) is primarily designed for travelers arriving by air or sea. However, if you are considering entering Sri Lanka via an overland route, it is crucial to understand the available options and relevant entry requirements.
Does Sri Lanka Have Overland Entry Points?
As an island nation, Sri Lanka does not have direct overland entry points. Therefore, travelers must arrive via air or sea using the designated entry ports authorized for eVisa holders.
Overland Travel to Sri Lanka via Ferry
For travelers journeying from India, ferry services provide an alternative to air travel. The Sri Lanka eVisa is valid for entry at designated seaports linked to ferry routes from India.
Approved Ports for Overland Travelers (via Ferry):
Talaimannar Pier (Sri Lanka) – Rameswaram (India) (Planned ferry route)
Kankesanthurai Port (Sri Lanka) – Nagapattinam (India) (Upcoming ferry service)
Important: Ferry schedules and entry regulations may change. Travelers should confirm details with ferry operators and Sri Lankan immigration authorities before departure.
Entry Process for Overland Travelers
Upon arrival at a Sri Lankan seaport via ferry, travelers must present the following documents to immigration officials:
A printed copy of the approved eVisa
A valid passport
Any additional documents required by Sri Lankan immigration authorities.
Travelers should be prepared for additional questioning or verification procedures upon arrival.
Approved Ports of Entry for Sri Lanka eVisa
Airports:
Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo)
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
Jaffna International Airport
Seaports:
Colombo
Galle
Hambantota
Trincomalee
Talaimannar Pier (for ferry travelers)
Kankesanthurai Port (for ferry travelers)
How to Apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa for Overland Entry
To enter Sri Lanka via ferry, travelers must obtain an approved Sri Lanka eVisa before departure. Follow these steps to apply:
Visit the official Sri Lanka Immigration Services website
At "Apply Visa", complete the online application form with personal details, travel plans, and passport information.
Pay the required visa fee.
Once approved, the eVisa will be sent via email. Print a copy to present upon arrival at the designated port of entry.
Visa Validity and Extension
The Sri Lanka eVisa typically allows a 30-day stay for most nationalities, with the possibility of extending the duration while in Sri Lanka through the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
For the latest updates on ferry routes, entry policies, and visa extensions, travelers should consult the Sri Lanka Immigration Department or their chosen ferry operator before embarking on their journey.
With a tourist visa, French passport holders can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days in total.
Destinations have reopened in recent years, visitors have acquired security, and the necessity of travel insurance has indeed grown. Covid-19 Insurance is one of the benefits contained with Travel Insurance, which you may require if you are traveling outside your native country.
Destinations have reopened in recent years, visitors have acquired security, and the necessity of travel insurance has indeed grown.
The document required for a Sri Lanka visa application is simple and easy to obtain.
The documents required for a Sri Lanka visa application are simple and easy to obtain:
No. Swiss citizens just need a valid passport before applying for an ETA.
No, you can get an E-Visa or an ETA even before making a ticket purchase.