Do Cruise Passengers Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?

Yes, most cruise passengers require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. The specific visa type depends on the duration and nature of your stay.

Visa Requirements for Cruise Passengers

Landing Permit for Organized Shore Excursions (Typically Under 48 Hours)

In most cases, cruise passengers participating in organized shore excursions arranged by the cruise line are issued a landing permit upon arrival, subject to immigration approval at ports like Colombo, Galle, or Trincomalee. This permit allows short visits (typically under 48 hours) without the need to apply for a Transit Visa in advance. The cruise operator coordinates with immigration authorities to provide these permits, requiring only a valid passport and cruise itinerary. Confirm with your cruise line to ensure a landing permit is arranged for your excursion, even if you are visa-exempt.

Transit Visa - Short Independent Stays (Under 48 Hours)

If you plan to leave the port area independently for less than 48 hours and your cruise line does not arrange a landing permit, a Transit Visa is required. This visa is suitable for passengers who plan to leave the port area independently for short visits (under 48 hours). However, it's important to note that this visa must be obtained prior to arrival through the official Sri Lanka e-Visa portal.

Tourist e-Visa - Longer Stays or Independent Travel (Up to 30 Days)

A Tourist Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for stays exceeding 48 hours, independent travel beyond port areas, or disembarkation to end the cruise.

The Tourist ETA permits stays of up to 30 days (double entry).

Who Is Exempt from a Visa?

- Passengers who remain onboard the cruise without disembarking or who participate in organized excursions under a landing permit are generally exempt from needing to apply for a separate visa.

- Citizens of the Maldives (visa-free for up to 90 days), Singapore (visa-free for up to 30 days), and Seychelles (visa-free for up to 90 days) are exempt from visa requirements for short-term tourism visits when arriving by cruise. These exemptions apply whether passengers stay with the cruise, engage in shore excursions, or travel independently within the permitted duration.

Important Notes

Some cruise lines arrange group landing permits for organized shore excursions. Confirm with your cruise operator if an individual ETA is needed.

If your cruise docks at multiple ports in Sri Lanka, ensure your visa allows multiple entries. Contact the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate if needed.

A double-entry Tourist ETA is sufficient for itineraries visiting multiple Sri Lankan ports (e.g., Colombo and Galle) within one trip.

Overstaying or failing to comply with visa conditions can lead to fines or detention.

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