Sri Lanka ETA Visa for Indians 2026: Cost, Process & Documents

Sri Lanka remains one of the most popular destinations for Indian travelers, offering pristine beaches, ancient temples, tea plantations, and wildlife safaris just a short flight away. Since 25 May 2026, Indian passport holders get a 30-day tourist visa for Sri Lanka free of charge. It is still issued as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), and you must obtain it online before you travel.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Sri Lanka ETA visa for Indians, including the application process, costs, required documents, processing time, and important tips to ensure a smooth application.

Do Indian Passport Holders Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?

Yes. Every foreign visitor, Indians included, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka. From 25 May 2026 the tourist ETA is free for Indian passport holders (India is one of 40 countries on the government's free list), valid for 30 days with double entry. Do not plan on sorting out a visa at the airport: the official ETA website says the ETA must be obtained prior to arrival.

The ETA system is entirely online and allows travelers to apply from the comfort of their homes without visiting an embassy or consulate. The approved ETA is electronically linked to your passport, and you'll need to present the approval notice at immigration upon arrival in Sri Lanka.

Types of Sri Lanka ETA for Indian Citizens

Tourist ETA

The Tourist ETA is the most common visa type for Indian travelers visiting Sri Lanka for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. For Indian passport holders it is free since 25 May 2026, valid for 30 days, and allows double entry from the date of first arrival.

Business ETA

If you're traveling for business meetings, conferences, or professional purposes, you'll need to apply for a Business ETA. This also allows a 30-day stay and can be extended once you're in Sri Lanka if needed.

Transit ETA

For travelers transiting through Sri Lanka's Bandaranaike International Airport for less than 48 hours without leaving the airport, a Transit ETA may be required depending on your nationality and circumstances. However, most Indians transiting typically opt for the standard tourist ETA if they wish to explore Colombo briefly.

Sri Lanka ETA Visa Cost for Indians in 2026

Since 25 May 2026 the tourist ETA is free of charge for Indian passport holders (30 days, double entry), according to the official ETA website, eta.gov.lk. Older guides, including an earlier version of this one, quote USD 50 or ₹4,200; that is out of date. If a site asks you to pay for a standard tourist ETA, check that you are on eta.gov.lk. The free list covers tourist visits; the official announcement does not give a fee for the Business ETA, so check the site if you are travelling for work.

Additional costs to consider:

• Agency or "processing" fees if you use a third party. You do not need one: the official application is free
• Extension fee if you stay beyond 30 days: the official site says an extension needs the applicable visa fee but does not state the amount, so confirm it with the Department of Immigration and Emigration

Important: Always apply through the official Sri Lankan ETA website (www.eta.gov.lk) to avoid inflated prices charged by unauthorized agents.

Documents Required for Sri Lanka ETA from India

The document requirements for Sri Lanka ETA are straightforward. Keep the following ready before starting your application:

• Valid passport: Must have at least 6 months validity from your intended date of arrival in Sri Lanka
• Passport bio-data page scan: Clear, colored scan or photograph of your passport's first page
• Return/onward ticket: Confirmed flight booking showing your departure from Sri Lanka (may be asked at immigration)
• Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings or invitation letter if staying with friends/family
• Proof of funds: Recent bank statements or a card showing you can pay for your stay (officers can ask; we could not find an official daily amount)
• Email address: Valid email to receive your ETA approval
• Payment method: Not needed for the free tourist ETA; keep a card handy in case a fee applies to your visa type

For Business ETA applicants, you'll additionally need:

• Business invitation letter from Sri Lankan company
• Company registration documents
• Purpose of visit details

Step-by-Step Sri Lanka ETA Application Process for Indians

Follow these detailed steps to apply for your Sri Lanka ETA online:

Step 1: Visit the Official ETA Website

Go to the official Sri Lanka ETA website at www.eta.gov.lk. Avoid third-party websites that charge excessive fees. Click on "Apply for Individual" if you're traveling alone, or "Apply for Group/Family" if applying for multiple people together.

Step 2: Select Visa Type

Choose your visa type:

• Tourist ETA (for leisure travel)
• Business ETA (for business purposes)
• Transit ETA (for airport transit)

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Complete the online form with accurate information including:

• Personal details (name as per passport, date of birth, nationality)
• Passport information (number, issue date, expiry date)
• Contact details (email, phone number, address in India)
• Travel details (intended date of arrival, purpose of visit, accommodation address)
• Previous travel history to Sri Lanka (if any)

Important: Double-check all information, especially your passport number and personal details. Errors can lead to rejection or denial of entry.

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload a clear scan or photograph of your passport's bio-data page. Ensure the image is in JPEG or PNG format and doesn't exceed the specified file size (usually 2MB).

Step 5: Check the Fee

For a standard tourist ETA from India the fee is zero, so you should not be asked for a card payment. If the site asks you to pay, check that the address is eta.gov.lk and that you picked the right visa type before you enter any card details.

Step 6: Submit Application

Review all entered information one final time, then submit your application. You'll receive an application reference number immediately. Save this number for tracking purposes.

Step 7: Receive ETA Approval

Your ETA approval will be sent to your registered email address, typically within 24-72 hours. The approval comes as a PDF document with a unique reference number. Print at least two copies to carry with you during travel.

Sri Lanka ETA Processing Time for Indians

The standard processing time for Sri Lanka ETA is 24 to 72 hours. However, most applications are approved within 24 hours of submission. In some cases, particularly during peak travel seasons or if additional verification is needed, it may take up to 5 working days.

Recommended timeline: Apply at least 7-10 days before your intended travel date to account for any unexpected delays or issues with your application.

If your application is taking longer than 72 hours, you can check the status on the official ETA website using your reference number and passport details.

Sri Lanka ETA Validity and Duration of Stay

The Sri Lanka Tourist ETA for Indians comes with the following validity parameters:

• Validity and stay: 30 days
• Entries allowed: Double entry, within the 30-day validity counted from your first arrival
• Before you fly: the official page does not say how long after approval you must enter the country, so apply close to your travel date rather than months ahead

If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo. The official ETA site says this needs the applicable visa fee but does not state the amount or the maximum stay, so confirm both before you rely on an extension.

Important Tips for Sri Lanka ETA Application

1. Apply Through Official Website Only

Use only the official website www.eta.gov.lk to avoid paying inflated prices to unauthorized agents. The standard tourist ETA for Indians is free; a website that charges for it is either not the official site or is an agent adding a fee.

2. Check Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Sri Lanka. Immigration officials are strict about this requirement and may deny boarding or entry if your passport expires sooner.

3. Print Your ETA Approval

While the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, it's highly recommended to carry printed copies of your approval notice. Immigration officers may request to see it, and having a physical copy speeds up the process.

4. Keep Supporting Documents Ready

Although not always requested, have your return flight tickets, hotel bookings, and proof of sufficient funds readily available. Immigration officers may ask for these at their discretion.

5. Apply Well in Advance

Don't wait until the last minute. Apply at least one week before travel to accommodate any processing delays or issues that may arise with your application.

6. Accurate Information is Crucial

Even minor errors in your name, passport number, or dates can lead to entry denial. Cross-check every detail before submitting your application.

7. COVID-19 Requirements

Sri Lanka lifted most COVID-19 travel restrictions after the pandemic. Check the latest requirements on the official Sri Lanka Tourism website before traveling, as policies can change.

Flight Costs from Major Indian Cities to Sri Lanka

Direct flights to Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport are available from major Indian cities:

• Delhi to Colombo: IndiGo, Air India, SriLankan Airlines - ₹12,000-₹25,000 return (3h 45m)
• Mumbai to Colombo: IndiGo, Air India, SriLankan Airlines - ₹10,000-₹22,000 return (2h 45m)
• Bangalore to Colombo: IndiGo, Air India, SriLankan Airlines - ₹8,500-₹18,000 return (1h 30m)
• Chennai to Colombo: IndiGo, Air India, SriLankan Airlines - ₹7,000-₹15,000 return (1h 15m)

Book flights 2-3 months in advance for better deals, especially during peak season (December to March).

What to Do If Your ETA is Rejected

ETA rejections for Indians are rare but can occur due to:

• Incomplete or incorrect information
• Issues with previous travel history
• Security concerns flagged by the system
• Criminal record or visa violations in other countries

If your ETA is rejected, you'll receive an email notification with the reason. You can either correct the errors and reapply, or contact the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration (immigration@immigration.gov.lk) for clarification. In some cases, you may need to apply for a visa through the Sri Lankan High Commission in New Delhi.

Extending Your Stay in Sri Lanka

If you decide to extend your stay beyond 30 days while in Sri Lanka, visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration at 45, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha, Colombo 10. Bring your passport, ETA approval, return ticket, hotel bookings, and proof of funds. The official ETA site says an extension needs the applicable visa fee but does not state the amount, the maximum stay or the processing time, so confirm all three with the office.

Popular Destinations in Sri Lanka for Indian Travelers

Once your ETA is approved, explore these incredible destinations:

• Colombo: Stay at Shangri-La Colombo (from ₹12,000/night) or Galle Face Hotel (from ₹15,000/night). Dine at Ministry of Crab (₹3,000-₹5,000 per person) for the famous crab curry.
• Kandy: Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (entry LKR 2,500 for SAARC nationals, which includes Indians, about ₹725, under the temple's published rates from 1 July 2026). Stay at Earl's Regency Hotel (from ₹5,500/night).
• Ella: Hike to Little Adam's Peak (free) and Nine Arch Bridge. Stay at 98 Acres Resort (from ₹9,000/night).
• Galle: Explore Galle Fort (free entry) and stay at Jetwing Lighthouse (from ₹11,000/night).
• Sigiriya: Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress (entry ₹2,500). Stay at Hotel Sigiriya (from ₹6,500/night).

A full-day safari at Yala National Park costs approximately ₹4,000-₹6,000 per person including jeep and guide.