Step by step guide on Is Sri Lanka Visa Free for Indians?
Introduction
When Indian travellers look for international travel that is affordable, culturally rich, and geographically close, Sri Lanka often ranks high on the list. It’s a dream destination for many people With its palm fringed beaches, ancient temples, wildlife parks, and flavourful cuisine, Sri Lanka offers a memorable experience for tourists. To get your bucket list completed. You must be planning a trip, an essential question arises: Is Sri Lanka visa-free for Indian citizens?
The short answer is no, Sri Lanka is not visa-free for Indian passport holders. However, the process of obtaining a visa is simple, inexpensive, and largely digital, making it highly accessible.
In this article, we’ll provide a detailed, structured, and step-by-step guide on what Indian travellers need to know about visiting Sri Lanka, including visa types, application steps, fees, requirements, and exceptions.
Understanding Visa-Free, Visa on Arrival, and ETA
Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand the key terms:
- Visa-Free means travelers can enter a country without a visa for a certain period.
- Visa on Arrival (VoA) means you can obtain a visa upon arrival at the destination airport.
- Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a pre-approval process done online, required before arrival.
Sri Lanka does not offer visa-free entry to Indians, but it does provide an ETA, which functions similarly to an e-visa.
Is Sri Lanka Visa-Free for Indians?
No. As of now (June 2025), Indian citizens are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Sri Lanka. The process is easy, online, and usually approved within 24 hours. In some cases, Indian travelers may also obtain a visa on arrival, but this is only valid if the ETA was obtained in advance.
However, there have been short-term promotional periods in the past when Sri Lanka waived the ETA fee for Indian tourists. These waivers were temporary and tied to efforts to boost tourism. You should always verify the current policy before traveling.
What is the ETA for Sri Lanka?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official permission to enter and stay in Sri Lanka visa for tourism, business, or transit. It is not a physical document but an online approval linked to your passport.
Key Features of ETA:
- Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival.
- Allows double entry (you can enter twice within those 30 days).
- You can extend the visa once you are in Sri Lanka (up to 6 months in total).
Types of ETA for Indian Citizens
There are three main types of ETA:
a) Tourist ETA
For travel, leisure, visiting friends or family.
- Valid for 30 days.
- Double entry allowed.
b) Business ETA
For meetings, conferences, or professional purposes.
- Valid for 30 days.
- Multiple entry.
c) Transit ETA
For travelers transiting through Sri Lanka.
- Valid for 2 days.
Free of charge.
Documents Required for ETA Application
Here is what you’ll need to apply:
Valid Indian Passport
- Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
Confirmed Return Air Ticket
- To prove you plan to leave Sri Lanka.
Proof of Accommodation
- Hotel bookings or address of a host.
Sufficient Funds
- Though not always checked, travelers must show the ability to fund their stay.
Email Address
- To receive your ETA confirmation.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA from India
Step 1: Visit the Official ETA Website
Go to https://www.eta.gov.lk – this is the official government portal.
Step 2: Choose Your Visa Type
Select “Apply for an Individual” for a single traveler and choose the correct visa type (tourist, business, or transit).
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
You will be asked to fill in details such as:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Arrival date
- Address in Sri Lanka
Step 4: Pay the ETA Fee
- Tourist ETA Fee: Approx. USD 20 (may vary depending on promotional policies)
- Business ETA Fee: USD 30
- Transit ETA: Free
Payment can be made via credit/debit card.
Step 5: Receive Confirmation
After submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgment via email. Within 24–48 hours, the approved ETA will be sent to your inbox. It’s advisable to print a copy and keep a digital version on your phone.
Visa on Arrival: Is It an Option?
Technically, Sri Lanka offers visa on arrival only to those who already have an ETA. If you arrive without an ETA, you may be allowed to apply on arrival, but it is strongly discouraged due to the risk of denial and long delays.
Hence, always apply for an ETA before your trip.
How Long Can Indians Stay in Sri Lanka?
With a standard Tourist ETA:
- Stay duration: 30 days
- Can be extended twice for up to 180 days in total (with proper justification).
To extend your stay:
- Visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.
- Submit an application for visa extension along with required documents and fees.
Travel Insurance and Other Requirements
While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended for Indian tourists. It should cover:
- Medical emergencies
- Trip cancellation
- Lost baggage
As of recent updates, some travelers may be asked to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test, especially during outbreaks. Always check the latest health advisories.
Special Cases and Exemptions
a) Children under 12
- Children under 12 traveling with parents do not need to pay the ETA fee.
b) Diplomatic or Official Passports
- Holders of these passports may be exempt from the standard ETA process.
Tips for Indian Travelers
- Currency: The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the official currency. Carry some local cash.
- Local SIM: Available at the airport. Dialog and Mobitel are popular providers.
- Transport: Tuk-tuks, buses, and trains are widely used. Uber is available in cities.
- Food: Vegetarian options are widely available, and Indian cuisine is popular.
Conclusion: Not Visa-Free, But Very Accessible
To summarize, Sri Lanka is not a visa-free destination for Indian passport holders, but the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) makes the process simple, fast, and traveler-friendly. With minimal documentation, low fees, and quick processing times, Sri Lanka remains one of the most accessible foreign travel destinations for Indian citizens.
So while it may not be visa-free in the technical sense, Sri Lanka is practically “visa-easy” for Indian tourists.
Final Checklist Before You Fly
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Approved ETA
- Printed confirmation of hotel and return ticket
- Travel insurance (optional but advised)
- Currency or international debit card
Step by step guide on Is Sri Lanka Visa Free for Indians?
No, Indian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or visa to enter Sri Lanka, even for short tourist visits.
As of 2025, Sri Lanka offers free ETA for Indian tourists under a limited-time policy, but it’s still required to apply online before travel.
No, currently the ETA is free for Indian travelers under a government initiative, but processing through third-party websites may still have service charges.
Yes, Indians can get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka, but it’s recommended to apply for a free ETA online in advance to avoid delays.
Countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives, and Indonesia offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to Indian passport holders for short stays.
Yes, Sri Lanka is generally affordable with budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transport compared to other international destinations.
Sri Lanka can be economical for Indian travelers, especially if you plan ahead. Costs depend on travel style, but budget travel is very doable.
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