FAQs

No, you can get an E-Visa or an ETA even before making a ticket purchase. An application procedure typically takes 05 hours to 03 working days.

   

Yes. A Sri Lanka e-Visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 30 days.

Yes. Sri Lanka Immigration Services allows you to apply for a group of up to 15 applicants.

Yes. German citizens must be aware of the latest update of the Government on Covid-19 requirements when visiting Sri Lanka.

To check your eligibility for the Sri Lanka Electronic Visa (e-Visa), you can follow these steps: Visit the official website of the Sri Lanka Immigration Services. Look for check requirements for the e-Visa application process or eligibility. Find your country and check eligibility or not. If you're unsure about your eligibility or have specific questions, you can contact the Sri Lanka Immigration Services directly through their official contact channels, such as email or phone. They will be able to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information regarding your eligibility for the e-visa. It's crucial to rely on official sources and channels for checking your eligibility for the Sri Lanka e-Visa. The official website of Sri Lanka Immigration and e-visa Portal is the most reliable and accurate source of information regarding e-visa eligibility and application procedures.

When planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it is critical to grasp the distinction between an e-visa and a regular visa. In the next essay, we will look at the differences between an e-visa and a regular visa for Sri Lanka. Key Differences Between e-Visa and Traditional Visa Both options allow you to enter the country, but they differ in terms of application process, purpose, and duration of stay. Here’s a breakdown: Electronic Visa (e-Visa) The Sri Lanka e-Visa is an online permit that allows travelers to visit Sri Lanka for leisure, business, or transit. Application Process: The e-Visa application is straightforward and may be done online. Travelers must enter their personal information, passport information, and trip itinerary. Once accepted, the e-visa is linked electronically to their passport. Duration of Stay: With an e-Visa, tourists can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days. It may be valid for multiple entries during its declared validity term, which is typically 180 days from the date of issue. Traditional Visa for Sri Lanka A traditional visa is an official endorsement on a traveler's passport that allows them to enter and stay in Sri Lanka for particular reasons, such as tourism, business, work, or education. Application Process: necessitates additional documentation, which may include submitting physical forms, supporting papers, and visa costs. Applications can be submitted online or through Sri Lanka's diplomatic missions. Duration of Stay: determined by the type of visa and the purpose of the visit. It can last anything from 30 days to several months or even longer, depending on the visa category. What Should You Choose: e-Visa vs. Traditional Visa Choose an e-Visa if You are traveling to Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit. You are from a country eligible for the e-Visa. You prefer a quick and hassle-free online application process. Choose a Traditional Visa if You must apply through a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate. You are from a country not eligible for the e-Visa. You plan to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days. You are traveling for work, study, or other specific purposes. Important Notes Entry Requirements: Regardless of visa type, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Extensions: Both e-Visas and traditional visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo if required. Transit passengers: If you are passing through Sri Lanka for less than 48 hours, you may not require a visa; however, check with your airline and the Sri Lankan authorities. In conclusion, most travelers prefer e-visas for their simplicity and speed. However, a standard visa is required for extended visits or specialized objectives. For the most up-to-date information, contact us for help.

Citizens of several countries, including China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand, benefit from the temporary visa exemption policy of the Sri Lankan government as part of a pilot program aimed at boosting tourism. This means travelers holding passports from these countries can enter Sri Lanka for short visits without needing a pre-approved visa. Other countries shall follow the general rules and regulations applicable to Sri Lanka visas. Countries with Visa-Free Access to Sri Lanka Current Visa-Free Countries Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Sri Lanka, for stays up to the duration listed below: Maldives (90 days) Seychelles (60 days, up to 90 days within any one-year period) Singapore (30 days) Existing Free Visa Regime Nationals of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan are eligible for a visa-free regime, allowing a single entry for up to 30 days. Nationals of these countries holding Diplomatic, Official, Public Affairs, Service, and Ordinary passports qualify for this visa-free scheme. They must apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka, which will be granted free of charge. To stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days, travelers can apply for an extension by paying the appropriate visa fee. Important Notes Visa-free access is typically for tourism purposes only. For other purposes (e.g., business, work, or study), a visa may still be required. Travelers must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Visa policies may change, so always check the latest entry requirements before traveling. This visa-free regime applies only to the countries listed above. Nationals of other countries must follow the general Sri Lanka ETA rules and regulations. You can apply for an e-Visa online through the official Sri Lanka ETA website: Sri Lanka Immigration Official Website

To properly complete the Sri Lanka visa application process, visitors must provide essential papers such as a valid passport and a recent photograph. To avoid delays or denial of the visa application process, the submitted photo must comply with the following specifications. Sri Lanka Visa Photo Requirements Here are the photo requirements for a Sri Lanka visa application: Photo size The photograph must be 35mm x 45mm (standard passport size). Visa applicants must ensure this photo was taken within the last six months. The photo format is JPEG or PNG for online applications. Quality and Resolution The color rendition should be true to life, accurately reflecting your skin tone. Avoid any underexposure or overexposure, as these may lead to a photograph that is either excessively dark or excessively bright. Background The background should be white or off-white, with no patterns or textures. There should be no additional objects, shadows, or spots in the backdrop. Facial expressions Maintain a neutral and calm appearance by closing your mouth, opening your eyes, and looking directly at the camera. Avoid using extreme facial emotions, such as grins or frowns. Attire and Accessories You can wear casual apparel that does not resemble a uniform. Religious or cultural hats are permissible, but they should not obscure facial characteristics. Non-tinted glasses with no glare are acceptable as long as the photo shows clear visibility of the applicant's eyes. Tips for a Successful Photo Use a professional photographer or a reliable photo booth to ensure the photo meets all requirements. No filters or digital alterations are allowed Double-check the photo against the requirements before submitting your application. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure your Sri Lanka visa application process goes smoothly.

Applying for a Sri Lanka online visa is an easy and effective process. Travelers can easily submit their application through the Sri Lanka Immigration Services website, which has a user-friendly interface that collects vital information accurately and swiftly. Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the Sri Lanka Visa Application Form 1. Select Visa Type and Processing Time At "Apply visa", choose the right visa type for your trip (transit, tourist, or business). If applying for a group visa, indicate the number of candidates to speed up the procedure (up to 15). Choose your desired processing time (Standard, Urgent, or Super Urgent). 2. Provide personal and passport details Enter your entire name, making sure it matches the information in your passport. Please specify your gender, date of birth, nationality, and passport number. Double-check all information to prevent processing delays. 3. Review and submit the application To avoid errors, carefully examine all submitted details before submitting them. Proceed to pay the visa fee using your preferred method. Submit any relevant supporting papers via the email you received. 4. Processing and Approval Timeline Standard processing takes about 3 business days. Rush service is provided for urgent circumstances, allowing tourists to acquire their Sri Lanka e-Visa in as little as 5 hours. Unexpected factors such as a large number of applications or national vacations may create delays. Tips for a Smooth Application Process. Keep Documents Ready: Before beginning the application, make sure your passport and photo are ready. Use Accurate Information: Make sure that all of the facts on your passport match exactly. Check Status: Use your reference number to follow the status of your application on the official ETA website. Once your e-Visa has been accepted, download and print it. You must submit this document to immigration agents upon arrival in Sri Lanka. To ensure quick visa approval, we strongly advise tourists to submit their applications at least one week before their planned departure. Visit the Sri Lanka Immigration Services website today to start your Sri Lanka e-Visa application!