Sri Lanka
General visa requirements for travelling to Sri Lanka. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.
Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.
Tourist visa (Tourist Visa-Free Entry (40 Countries))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 24-48 hours
- Fee
- Free (ETA fee waived)
- Validity
- 30 days from arrival
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Starting January 2026, citizens of 40 countries can obtain a free ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for tourist visits. While the fee is waived, travelers must still apply online for the ETA before travel. Double entry permitted during the 30-day validity period. Extensions possible up to 270 days total (in stages: +60, +90, +90 days) by applying at the Department of Immigration in Colombo.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to nationals of 40 designated countries including major markets such as UK, USA, Canada, Australia, EU countries, and Asian nations.
Eligible countries: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea (Republic of), Kuwait, Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America
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Purpose of visit
For tourism, sightseeing, holidaying, visiting friends and relatives, medical treatments, sports events, and cultural performances only.
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Financial
Must demonstrate adequate funds for maintenance during stay in Sri Lanka and for return passage.
Minimum funds: Not specified - adequate for stay duration
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statement, credit cards, cash; Minimum amount: Adequate funds for stay and return passage
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA); Form url: https://eta.gov.lk
How to apply
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Online application
Apply online for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) through the official portal at least 24-48 hours before travel.
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Processing wait
Wait for ETA approval which typically takes 24-48 hours. The approved ETA will be sent via email.
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Visa collection
No physical visa collection required. Present approved ETA email and passport at port of entry in Sri Lanka.
Student visa (Student Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 6-12 weeks
- Fee
- Rs. 20,000 per year (standard) or Rs. 10,000 per year (government universities)
- Validity
- Duration of course (renewable annually)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For foreign students pursuing regular, full-time academic study at a recognized institution in Sri Lanka. Cannot enter on tourist or business visa - student visa must be obtained before travel. Change of visa types NOT permitted after arrival. Students under 16 can apply for parent/guardian visa to accompany them. Lower fee applies for government university students.
Eligibility
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Purpose of visit
For pursuing regular, full-time academic study at a recognized educational institution in Sri Lanka.
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Financial
Must demonstrate adequate funds for tuition fees, living expenses, and return passage for duration of study.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for course fees and living expenses
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor letters; Minimum amount: Adequate funds for tuition, living expenses, and return passage
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Admission letter
Must be notarized: No; Must be original: Yes; Must show program dates: Yes
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Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
How to apply
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Document gathering
First contact education provider and obtain admission to study program. Gather passport, admission letter, transcripts, and proof of funds.
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Document submission
Educational institution applies to Department of Immigration for entry visa approval on behalf of student.
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Processing wait
Wait for Department of Immigration to process application and notify nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission. Processing takes 6-12 weeks.
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Fee payment
Pay student visa fee: Rs. 20,000 per year for standard institutions or Rs. 10,000 per year for government universities.
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Visa collection
Collect entry visa endorsed on passport from the diplomatic mission.
Work / Immigration visa (Employment Visa (Residence - Work))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 4-8 weeks
- Fee
- Varies (annual renewal required)
- Validity
- Maximum 1 year (renewable annually)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For foreign nationals intending to work in Sri Lanka. All sectors and job roles require work permit. Must obtain entry visa for employment before travel, then apply for residence visa (employment category) within 30 days of arrival at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. Requires confirmed job offer from registered Sri Lankan company.
Eligibility
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Employment
Must have confirmed job offer from registered Sri Lankan company. Employer must demonstrate that local recruitment was not suitable or possible.
Required status: Confirmed employment with Sri Lankan registered company
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Purpose of visit
For engaging in paid employment in Sri Lanka across all sectors and job roles.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
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Academic transcript
Provide academic records for the course, qualification or training route.
Must be notarized: Yes; Must be translated: Yes
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Company registration
Provide company registration evidence for the inviting, sponsoring or employing organisation.
Accepted documents: Business registration documents of Sri Lankan employer
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Professional license
Accepted licenses: Relevant professional qualifications and certifications; Must be translated: Yes
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Work permit notification
Provide work permit approval, notification or authorisation evidence from the relevant authority.
Issuing authority: As required by issuing authority; Permit number: Visa recommendation letter required
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain job offer from Sri Lankan employer and gather employment letter, company registration, qualifications, and sponsorship letter from relevant Ministry/BOI.
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Document submission
Submit application for entry visa to nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission with employment documents and visa recommendation letter from line Ministry or BOI.
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Processing wait
Wait for entry visa processing which typically takes 4-8 weeks depending on verification of employment credentials.
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Visa collection
Collect entry visa from diplomatic mission once approved.
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Fee payment
Pay applicable residence visa fees at Department of Immigration. Visa granted for maximum 1 year, renewable annually with continued sponsorship.
Business visa (Business e-Visa (ETA) - Short Stay (up to 30 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
e-Visa
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 24-48 hours
- Fee
- $35 USD (non-SAARC countries)
- Validity
- 30 days from arrival
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka for business purposes for less than 30 days. Multiple entry permitted. Can be applied online via the ETA system. SAARC nationals pay $15 USD. Not for employment - strictly business visits, meetings, conferences, etc.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
For business meetings, conferences, negotiations, market research, and other commercial activities. Not for employment or paid work.
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Financial
Must show bank statement proving adequate funds for stay and return passage.
Minimum funds: Adequate for duration of stay
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Bank statement
Minimum balance: Adequate funds for stay and return passage; Months required: 3
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter from Sri Lankan business partner or organization confirming purpose of visit
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) - Business; Form url: https://eta.gov.lk
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather required documents including passport, bank statements, and invitation letter from business partner in Sri Lanka.
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Online application
Apply online for Business ETA through the official portal, selecting 'Business' as the visa type.
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Fee payment
Pay business ETA fee online: $35 USD for most countries, $15 USD for SAARC countries.
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Processing wait
Wait for approval which typically takes 24-48 hours. Receive ETA via email.
Business visa (Business Visa - Medium Stay (30-90 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks
- Fee
- Varies by duration and entries
- Validity
- Up to 90 days
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For business visits between 30-90 days. Must apply through Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission or Consular Division. Can be issued as single, double, or multiple entry. Online ETA system not available for this category - must submit application to nearest Sri Lankan mission.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
For extended business activities including negotiations, training, consultations, and business development requiring more than 30 days.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Bank statement
Minimum balance: Adequate funds for stay and return passage; Months required: 3
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Detailed letter from Sri Lankan business partner stating purpose, duration, and nature of business activities
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Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
How to apply
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Document gathering
Prepare all required documents including passport, bank statements, invitation letter, and cover letter explaining business purpose.
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Document submission
Submit application to the Consular Division of nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission with all supporting documents.
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Fee payment
Pay applicable visa fee at the diplomatic mission based on duration and number of entries requested.
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Processing wait
Wait for visa processing which typically takes 2-4 weeks depending on the mission workload.
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Visa collection
Collect visa from the diplomatic mission or receive via courier if available.
Transit visa (Transit Visa - Short Stopover (up to 2 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Visa free
- Maximum stay
- 2 days
- Processing time
- On arrival
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- 2 days
- Entry
- Single entry
Free transit visa available for passengers transiting through Sri Lanka with documentary proof of onward travel. Valid for up to 2 days (48 hours). If staying only in the airport transit lounge without entering Sri Lanka, no visa is required at all. Not required if flying out on the same aircraft.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
For passengers making a short stopover while transiting to another destination.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
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Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
How to apply
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Document gathering
Have confirmed onward flight ticket and valid passport ready for immigration.
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Visa collection
Obtain free transit visa stamp on arrival at Colombo Airport by presenting onward travel documents.
Journalist visa (Journalist/Media Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 2-3 weeks
- Fee
- Varies
- Validity
- Duration of assignment
- Entry
- Single entry
For media personnel visiting Sri Lanka for journalism, news coverage, documentaries, or filming. Must NOT apply with tourist or business visa. News media/print journalists can apply directly without prior approval. Documentary/film crews must obtain approval from National Film Corporation (NFC) at least 2 weeks before filming. All media personnel must obtain media accreditation from Department of Government Information upon arrival.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
For news coverage, human interest stories, editorials, documentaries, feature films, and media production in Sri Lanka.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: No
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Letter of Commission from media organization detailing program, dates, locations, and interview subjects
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Travel itinerary
Provide an itinerary showing travel dates, destinations and planned accommodation.
Must include addresses: Yes; Must include dates: Yes
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain Letter of Commission from media organization with detailed itinerary. For documentaries/films, prepare synopsis and filming locations for NFC approval.
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Document submission
Submit journalist visa application to nearest Sri Lankan Embassy/High Commission/Consulate. Film crews submit NFC application at least 2 weeks before scheduled filming.
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Processing wait
Wait for visa processing (2-3 weeks). Film crews wait for NFC approval as well.
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Visa collection
Collect journalist visa from diplomatic mission.
Work / Immigration visa (Digital Nomad Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks
- Fee
- $500 USD per year
- Validity
- 1 year
- Entry
- Multiple entry
New visa program launched in February 2026 for remote workers, freelancers, and digital entrepreneurs. Allows working remotely for companies/clients outside Sri Lanka while living in the country. Cannot work for Sri Lankan companies or conduct business registered in Sri Lanka.
Eligibility
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Employment
Must be employed by a company based in another country, be a freelancer, or own a business NOT registered in Sri Lanka.
Required status: Remote worker for non-Sri Lankan entity
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Financial
Minimum monthly income of $2,000 USD required from remote work sources.
Minimum funds: $2,000 USD per month
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Age
Applicant must be 18 years or older.
Max age: 999; Min age: 18
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, employment contracts, client invoices; Minimum amount: $2,000 USD per month
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Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.
Must include leave approval: No; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather proof of remote employment or freelance work, proof of minimum $2,000 monthly income, passport, and bank statements.
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Document submission
Submit digital nomad visa application to nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission or designated processing center.
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Fee payment
Pay digital nomad visa fee of $500 USD for one year validity.
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Processing wait
Wait for visa processing which typically takes 2-4 weeks.
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Visa collection
Collect approved digital nomad visa from the mission or receive electronically.
Diplomatic visa (Diplomatic Visa - Short Term (up to 90 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Processing time
- 1-2 weeks
- Fee
- Free
- Validity
- Up to 90 days
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For holders of Diplomatic or Official passports visiting Sri Lanka for official purposes. Must obtain prior visa before travel. No fees charged as per Line Ministry recommendation. Applications require Note Verbale from relevant mission and invitation from Sri Lankan organization.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
For official government business, diplomatic missions, and official state visits.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Invitation letter
Host requirements: Invitation from relevant Sri Lankan organization confirming official nature of visit
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No objection certificate
Provide a no-objection letter from the employer, school, sponsor or authority when the route asks for it.
Issuing authority: Issuing authority
How to apply
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Document gathering
Prepare diplomatic/official passport, Note Verbale from sending mission, and invitation from Sri Lankan organization.
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Document submission
Submit application through nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission or directly to Department of Immigration in Colombo with Note Verbale and invitation.
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Processing wait
Wait for diplomatic visa processing, typically 1-2 weeks.
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Visa collection
Collect diplomatic visa from the mission. No fee charged.
Transit visa (Transit e-Visa (ETA) - Extended (2-7 days))
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
e-Visa
- Maximum stay
- 7 days
- Processing time
- 24-48 hours
- Fee
- $35 USD (if transit exceeds 48 hours)
- Validity
- 7 days
- Entry
- Single entry
For transit stays between 2-7 days. If transit exceeds 48 hours, the standard tourist ETA fee of $35 USD applies. Can be obtained via online ETA system or on arrival. Single entry only, cannot be extended.
Eligibility
-
Purpose of visit
For passengers requiring a longer stopover (2-7 days) while transiting to final destination.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
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Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Transit ETA Application; Form url: https://eta.gov.lk
How to apply
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Online application
Apply online for Transit ETA at least 24-48 hours before travel, or obtain on arrival at airport.
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Fee payment
Pay transit ETA fee if stay exceeds 48 hours: $35 USD charged as tourist visa rate.
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Processing wait
If applied online, receive ETA approval via email within 24-48 hours.
Medical visa (Medical Treatment Visa)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
e-Visa
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 24-48 hours
- Fee
- $35 USD (processed as Tourist ETA)
- Validity
- Up to 6 months depending on treatment duration
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Medical treatment falls under Tourist Visa category. Apply via ETA system selecting tourist visa type. For extended treatment beyond 30 days, visa can be extended up to 6 months with dual entry based on medical documentation. Extension period decided case-by-case. Cannot engage in employment during stay.
Eligibility
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Purpose of visit
For seeking medical treatment at Sri Lankan hospitals and healthcare facilities.
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Financial
Must demonstrate adequate funds to cover medical treatment costs, accommodation, and return passage.
Minimum funds: Sufficient for treatment and stay duration
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Bank statement
Minimum balance: Sufficient to cover treatment costs, stay, and return passage; Months required: 3
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Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Required tests: Letter from hospital in Sri Lanka stating illness and treatment to be provided; Validity months: 6
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Tourist ETA Application; Form url: https://eta.gov.lk
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain letter from Sri Lankan hospital confirming treatment plan, gather medical records, and prepare 3-month bank statements.
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Online application
Apply for Tourist ETA online, indicating medical treatment as purpose of visit.
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Fee payment
Pay tourist ETA fee of $35 USD (or $15 for SAARC nationals) online.
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Processing wait
Wait for ETA approval, typically within 24-48 hours.
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Document submission
If extension needed beyond 30 days, apply at Department of Immigration in Colombo with hospital documentation. Maximum 6 months possible.
Tourist visa (Tourist e-Visa (ETA) - Standard)
Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026
e-Visa
- Maximum stay
- 30 days
- Processing time
- 24-48 hours
- Fee
- $35 USD (non-SAARC countries)
- Validity
- 30 days from arrival
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For all countries not covered by the visa-free program. SAARC countries pay $15 USD. Children under 12 years are exempt from the ETA processing fee. Double entry permitted. Can be extended up to 270 days total (in stages: +60, +90, +90 days) at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from endemic countries.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Available to nationals of all countries except those in the visa-free 40-country program.
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Purpose of visit
For tourism, sightseeing, holidaying, visiting friends and relatives, medical treatments, sports events, and cultural performances.
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Financial
Must demonstrate adequate funds for maintenance during stay and return passage.
Minimum funds: Not specified - adequate for stay duration
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Age
Children under 12 years are exempt from the ETA processing fee.
Max age: 11; Min age: 0
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statement, credit cards; Minimum amount: Adequate funds for stay and return passage
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA); Form url: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/apply.jsp?locale=en_US
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Vaccination certificate
Required vaccines: Yellow fever (if arriving from endemic countries); Validity months: 120
How to apply
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Online application
Complete online ETA application form with personal details, passport information, and travel dates.
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Fee payment
Pay ETA fee online: $35 USD for most countries, $15 USD for SAARC countries, free for children under 12.
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Processing wait
Wait for ETA approval. Typically processed within 24-48 hours and sent via email.
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Visa collection
No physical collection required. Present ETA approval email and passport upon arrival at Sri Lankan immigration.