Sri Lanka includes additional 33 countries in its upcoming expansion of ETA fee waivers
Starting October 15, 2025, the US will join Finland, Canada, Belarus, Austria, Denmark, Qatar, Poland, and more in Sri Lanka’s updated visa policy, which mandates all tourists to obtain their Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before departure. This initiative also intends to mitigate crowding at airports reduce the administrative burden at airports, and enhance the overall visitor experience. The shift to a fully online application system may also allow the government to gather more detailed data on visitors, helping to improve services and infrastructure in the long run.
All tourists, regardless of their nationality, will need to obtain their Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before departing for the island.
Key Changes for Tourists
- On-Arrival Visas no more: Tourists can no longer opt to get their ETA at Sri Lanka’s airports upon arrival. This means every traveller must secure approval before boarding their flight to Sri Lanka.
- Online Application Requirement: Starting from mid-October, all tourists must apply for their ETA through Sri Lanka’s official government website, eta.gov.lk. The online application process is designed to streamline travel and reduce wait times at the airport.
- Impact on All Foreign Nationals: The new rule applies to all foreign nationals, irrespective of their country of origin. Even travellers from countries that are typically exempt from ETA fees—such as India, China, Russia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan—will need to complete the online application before departure.
How to Apply for a Sri Lanka ETA
Obtaining an ETA is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what travellers need to know:
- Where to Apply: Applications should be made exclusively on the official Sri Lankan government website, gov.lk.
- ETA Fee: A double-entry ETA costs $50 USD. This fee applies regardless of the traveler’s nationality, unless there are future updates regarding fee waivers.
- Processing Time: Approval is typically emailed within minutes to a few hours after submitting the online application. However, travellers are advised to apply well in advance to avoid any issues.
- Validity: The ETA is valid for six months from the date of issue, with each visit allowing a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions are possible, and the process to extend stays can be handled at Sri Lankan immigration offices once the traveller has arrived in the country.
- Required Documents: In addition to completing the online application form, applicants need to have a passport valid for at least six months from their intended arrival date.
The Expansion of Sri Lanka’s ETA Fee Waiver Plan
Sri Lanka has been working on expanding its ETA fee waiver plan, which is designed to attract more tourists to the island nation. The waiver, however, is still in the process of being finalized.
- Current ETA Fee Waiver Countries: As of now, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand are the only countries whose citizens qualify for a fee waiver for their ETAs.
- Future ETA Fee Waiver Plan: In July 2025, Sri Lanka’s government announced plans to extend the fee waiver to an additional 33 countries. These countries include major tourist sources like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many European nations. This expansion, though still pending, could significantly impact travel to Sri Lanka by reducing the cost for many visitors.
Implications of the Fee Waiver:
- This change will help simplify the visa process for millions of potential tourists, especially those from countries with high tourism potential like the US, UK, and EU nations.
- While the waiver plan has not been officially confirmed or implemented yet, travellers should continue to expect the $50 fee until an official announcement is made.
What about Other Visa Types?
For travellers who need to stay longer than 30 days or who have specific purposes for visiting Sri Lanka, other visa options will still be available. The standard tourist visa can be extended in-country at the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration.
- Tourist Visa Extension: Tourists who arrive on an ETA and wish to stay longer can apply for an extension through the Sri Lankan immigration office, allowing them to stay beyond the initial 30-day period.
- Business and Other Visas: Business travellers and those seeking to stay for purposes beyond tourism will still need to apply for the appropriate visa type.
What This Means for Travelers
For travellers planning to visit Sri Lanka, the message is clear: apply for your ETA before you travel. Gone are the days of sorting out your visa at Colombo airport. Instead, ensure that your ETA is approved online and that you have the confirmation handy when you board your flight.
- Prepare in Advance: It’s important to give yourself enough time to complete the ETA application. Although processing can be quick, applying ahead of time reduces the risk of any delays.
- Double-Check Details: Make sure all the details you provide on the application match those in your passport to avoid any discrepancies that might cause issues upon arrival.
- Travel with Confidence: While the new rule removes the flexibility of getting an ETA upon arrival, it also makes the entry process much more predictable for all visitors. Having your ETA approved before departure means fewer complications when you arrive in Sri Lanka.
For now, tourists planning to visit Sri Lanka should ensure they apply for their ETA well in advance, keeping the confirmation handy and ensuring their details match their passport information. This change may require a bit more preparation, but it ultimately promises a smoother and more efficient entry process.
Source: External
|
|
