As of February 2025, Sri Lanka offers several visa options for travelers, including the Visa on Arrival (VoA) and the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Understanding the distinctions between these visas, their associated fees, and categories is essential for a smooth entry into the country.
Visa on Arrival (VoA):
The VoA is available to citizens of most countries upon arrival in Sri Lanka. This visa permits a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended for longer durations if necessary. However, obtaining a VoA can involve longer wait times at the airport, and there’s a possibility of entry denial if any requirements are not met. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to secure an ETA before traveling.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA):
The ETA is an online visa system introduced to streamline the entry process for travelers. Applying for an ETA before departure offers several benefits, including expedited processing upon arrival and a reduced likelihood of entry issues. The ETA is valid for tourism, business, and transit purposes.
Visa Categories and Fees:
- Tourist Visa:
- Duration: Valid for stays up to 30 days.
- Fee: Approximately USD 35.
- Extension: Tourist visas can be extended up to 180 days. visatraveler.com
- Business Visa:
- Duration: Valid for stays up to 30 days.
- Fee: Approximately USD 40.
- Extension: Extensions are possible for longer stays, subject to additional fees.
- Transit Visa:
- Duration: Valid for stays up to 48 hours.
- Fee: Approximately USD 20.
Recent Developments:
In an effort to boost tourism, Sri Lanka launched a six-month pilot program starting October 1, 2024, offering free 30-day tourist visas to travelers from 35 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, India, and China. This initiative, valid until April 2025, aims to attract more visitors by waiving the standard visa fees.
Application Process:
- ETA Application:
- Online: Travelers can apply through the official ETA website.
- Processing Time: Typically within 24 hours.
- Required Information: Valid passport, travel details, and payment method.
- Visa on Arrival:
- Procedure: Available at designated entry points, such as Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.
- Requirements: Valid passport, return ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and payment of the visa fee.
Important Considerations:
- Overstay Penalties: Overstaying a visa can result in significant fines. For instance, overstays exceeding 14 days incur a penalty of USD 500, in addition to the applicable visa fees. immigration.gov.lk
- Visa Extensions: Extensions must be applied for before the current visa expires and are subject to approval by Sri Lankan immigration authorities.
For the most current information and to ensure compliance with all entry requirements, travelers are advised to consult the official Sri Lankan immigration website or contact the nearest Sri Lankan consulate or embassy before planning their visit.s allow you to monitor and control energy usage, ensuring that your environmental impact remains minimal.
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