Sri Lanka Visa Requirements 2026
Complete guide to Sri Lanka tourist visa, e-Visa (ETA), visa on arrival, and application process for US, UK, Canadian, and international travelers
Quick Facts: Sri Lanka Visa Requirements 2026
Understanding Sri Lanka Visa Requirements in 2026
Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia known for its ancient cities, tea plantations, and beautiful beaches, requires visas for most visitors. In 2026, Sri Lanka offers convenient e-Visa (Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA) applications online, making it easy to visit this tropical paradise.
Most nationalities, including US, UK, Canada, EU, and Australia, need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. The e-Visa (ETA) system allows you to apply online, pay the $50 USD fee, and receive your visa via email within 24-48 hours. The tourist ETA allows a 30-day stay, which can be extended for an additional 30 days at local immigration offices.
Visa on arrival is also available for most nationalities at major airports (Colombo), but the e-Visa (ETA) is recommended as it's faster at immigration and can be obtained before traveling. The ETA is valid for entry at major airports and seaports.
Types of Sri Lanka Visas Available in 2026
e-Visa (ETA) - Online
Apply online before traveling. Fastest option at immigration. Valid for 30 days, can be extended. Available for entry at major airports and seaports.
- Fee: $50 USD
- 30 days (extendable to 60 days)
- Processing: 24-48 hours
Visa on Arrival
Get visa at major airports (Colombo). Requires passport photo and cash payment. Processing takes 30-60 minutes.
- Fee: $50 USD (cash)
- 30 days (extendable to 60 days)
- Available at major airports only
Visa Extension
Extend your 30-day visa for an additional 30 days at local immigration offices. Total stay can be up to 60 days.
- Fee: $50 USD
- 30 days extension
- Processing: 1-3 business days
Business Visa
For business travelers. Can be extended for longer stays. Requires business invitation or company registration.
- Fee: $50 USD
- 30 days (extendable)
- Requires business documents
Sri Lanka Visa Requirements by Nationality
🇺🇸 US Citizens
US citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. You can apply for an e-Visa (ETA) online ($50 USD) or get visa on arrival ($50 USD) at major airports. Both allow 30-day stay, extendable to 60 days.
- e-Visa (ETA): $50 USD (recommended)
- Visa on arrival: $50 USD
- 30 days (extendable to 60 days)
- Valid passport (6+ months validity) required
🇬🇧 UK Citizens
UK citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. Same options as US citizens - e-Visa (ETA) ($50 USD) or visa on arrival ($50 USD).
- e-Visa (ETA): $50 USD (recommended)
- Visa on arrival: $50 USD
- 30 days (extendable to 60 days)
- Valid passport required
🇨🇦 Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. e-Visa (ETA) ($50 USD) or visa on arrival ($50 USD) available. Both allow 30-day stay.
- e-Visa (ETA): $50 USD (recommended)
- Visa on arrival: $50 USD
- 30 days (extendable to 60 days)
- Multiple entry options available
Required Documents for Sri Lanka Visa Application
Essential Documents
- ✓Valid passport (6+ months validity, 1 blank page)
- ✓Passport photo (for e-Visa upload or VOA)
- ✓Completed visa application form (for e-Visa online)
- ✓Round-trip flight itinerary
Supporting Documents
- ✓Hotel reservations or accommodation proof
- ✓Bank statements (showing sufficient funds)
- ✓Cash for visa on arrival ($50 USD)
- ✓Credit card for e-Visa payment ($50 USD)
Step-by-Step Sri Lanka Visa Application Process
Apply for e-Visa (ETA) Online
Visit the official Sri Lanka ETA website. Fill application form, upload passport photo, and pay $50 USD fee.
Wait for Processing
ETA processing takes 24-48 hours. You'll receive approval email with your ETA document.
Print ETA
Print your ETA approval letter and carry it with your passport. You'll need to show it at immigration.
Gather Required Documents
Prepare passport (6+ months validity), printed ETA, flight itinerary, hotel reservations, and return ticket.
Enter Sri Lanka
Present passport, printed ETA, and return ticket at immigration. ETA is valid for entry at major airports and seaports.
Extend Your Stay (if needed)
Visit local immigration office before visa expires. Pay $50 USD to extend for 30 more days (total 60 days). Processing takes 1-3 days.
Sri Lanka Visa Fees and Processing Times 2026
| Visa Type | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| e-Visa (ETA) - 30 days | $50 USD | 24-48 hours |
| Visa on Arrival - 30 days | $50 USD (cash) | 30-60 minutes at airport |
| Visa Extension - 30 days | $50 USD | 1-3 business days |
| Business Visa - 30 days | $50 USD | 24-48 hours |
| Multiple Entry Visa | $100-200 USD | 3-5 business days |
Frequently Asked Questions About Sri Lanka Visa
Do US citizens need a visa for Sri Lanka?
US citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. You can apply for an e-Visa online before traveling, which costs $50 USD for a 30-day tourist visa. Processing takes 24-48 hours. Alternatively, you can get visa on arrival at the airport for $50 USD.
What is Sri Lanka e-Visa (ETA)?
Sri Lanka e-Visa (Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA) is an online visa application system that allows you to apply, pay, and receive your visa via email. It costs $50 USD for a 30-day tourist visa, processing takes 24-48 hours, and it's valid for entry at major airports and seaports.
How long can I stay in Sri Lanka with a tourist visa?
Tourist e-Visa (ETA) allows a 30-day stay in Sri Lanka. This can be extended for an additional 30 days (total 60 days) at local immigration offices. Extension costs approximately $50 USD.
How much does a Sri Lanka visa cost?
Sri Lanka tourist e-Visa (ETA) costs $50 USD. Visa on arrival is also available at major airports for $50 USD. Visa extension costs approximately $50 USD for 30 additional days.
Can I get Sri Lanka visa on arrival?
Yes, visa on arrival is available for most nationalities at major airports (Colombo). It costs $50 USD, requires a passport photo, and takes about 30-60 minutes to process. e-Visa (ETA) is recommended as it's faster at immigration.
How long does Sri Lanka e-Visa processing take?
Sri Lanka e-Visa (ETA) processing takes 24-48 hours. You'll receive your visa via email once approved. It's recommended to apply at least 3 days before your travel date to allow for any delays.