An intended traveller visiting Sri Lanka for a short stay for following purposes, must obtain ETA prior approval for their arrival.

Visit Categories

TOURIST

• Sightseeing, holidaying
• Visiting friends and relatives
• Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and Yoga
• Participate in sporting events, competitions and activities relating to cultural performance

BUSINESS

• Participate in business meetings and negotiations
• Participate in Conferences, workshops and seminars
• To take part in Short term training programs (less than one month)
• Participate in art, music and dance events
• Participating in religious events
• Participate in Symposium

TRANSIT

• A transit visa is necessary for Transiting through Sri Lanka up to 02 days Free of Charge on the basis of Documentary proof  (Transit permitted ONLY for 48 hours)

The types of ETA:

• ETA for Tourist purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days
• ETA for Business purpose with double entry for 30 (thirty) days

At the arrival applicant may be granted 30 days ETA with double entry facility and double entries can be made from the date of initial arrival (Within given 30 days). The balance period of the 30 days of the initial entry will be granted for the second visit to Sri Lanka.

Business Purposes ETA

Business ETA can only be obtained from;

• Sri Lanka Overseas Missions;
• The head office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DI&E), Colombo;

Multiple, Double or single entry business ETA can be obtained from Sri Lanka Overseas Missions and the Visa Section of the Department of Immigration and Emigration , Colombo.

The traveler should produce relevant documentary proof of his/her intent of Business purpose visit to Sri Lanka.

How to obtain ETA for Media/Journalist activities

On line ETA facility is not available for under mentioned purposes: 

• To participate in Media/Journalist conferences, workshops or seminars etc.,
• To engage in Meetings, Seminars, Conferences etc., with Political parties and/or groups;
• To engage in the activities carried out by the NGO or INGO. 

Approval of the appropriate authorities of the Government of Sri Lanka should be obtained by those who intend to engage in above purposes in Sri Lanka.

Potential applicants may obtain the relevant visa by submitting proof of evidence from Sri Lanka Overseas Missions and from the Visa Section of the Department of Immigration & Emigration, Colombo for the above purposes.

All foreign nationals intending to visit Sri Lanka for the purposes other than Short Visit must obtain necessary visas prior to their arrival.