About Sri Lanka

​‍​‌An Indian traveler who plans to visit Sri Lanka in 2025 must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before his/her arrival. Indian nationals are given the visa free of charge, however, the ETA is the indispensable ticket to allow the holder to enter the country and hence provides a free and legal entry.

Documents Typically Required (for Short-Term Visit)

Indians traveling to Sri Lanka should ensure that they have the correct travel documents, which are the following:

  • A legitimate Indian passport that is valid for no less than six months after the date of arrival.

  • An ETA authorization obtained through an online application and approved prior to arrival.

  • Return or onward flight reservation that is already booked and confirmed.

  • Usually hotel reservation or host invitation should be enough for accommodation proof.

  • Having enough cash or any kind of money to support the stay will be necessary.

  • The certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination might be required if the traveler is coming from a specific region with that disease.

  • Travel Insurance if purchased will definitely add to the security of the trip but it is not mandatory.

  • Passport-size photos might be asked for certain visa categories.

Eligibility Criteria & Key Conditions

  • The ETA acts as a must-have document for any Indian national who intends to enter Sri Lanka for short stay purposes such as a holiday, business, or meeting friends and family.

  • A 30-day stay will be allowed by the ETA with the permission of two entries into the country.

  • Sri Lankan authorities approve extensions up to six months for tourist ETAs and up to 12 months for business ETAs only.

  • One can be issued a visa-on-arrival but it is not certain; hence, the most secure and endorsed way is getting the ETA before leaving.

  • Indians are allowed visa-free travel for a period not exceeding 30 days with an ETA, making it possible to go to Sri Lanka.

FAQs for Indian Travelers to Sri Lanka

Yes. Indian citizens must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel. The ETA is currently free of charge for Indians.

The Sri Lanka ETA allows an initial stay of 30 days. Extensions can be requested after arrival in Sri Lanka.

You must apply online through the official Sri Lanka ETA Portal. Fill out the application, upload the required documents, and wait for approval via email.

Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended. It helps cover medical emergencies, travel disruptions, and unexpected expenses.

Yes, an ETA/visa on arrival can be obtained at Colombo Airport. However, due to long queues and unpredictable approval time, most travellers prefer completing the ETA online before travel.

Application & Entry Process (Suggested Steps)

  1. The applicant should log in to the authorized online foreign travel portal of Sri Lanka.

  2. The form is filled by the applicant with all the requested information and a document is attached to it.

  3. Once done with the submission, the applicant waits for the approval email of the ETA.

  4. Carry the printout of the approval alongside your travel document.

  5. Your passport should be valid for at least half a year, do check that out!

  6. Get your round trip tickets ready, along with your hotel reservation.

  7. Show your documents to the officer at the airport of Sri Lanka upon landing.

  8. Hold to your visa stipulations and if required ask for visa prolongation.

Summary

In order to travel to Sri Lanka in 2025, citizens of India need to procure an ETA via online application before they land. The ETA allows a 30-day stay and double-entry to Sri Lanka. However, getting an ETA at the airport will only be on a few occasions and usually not advised due to the inevitable extra waiting time. Make sure to carry a valid passport, return ticket, hotel booking proof, and have enough money. As per Sri Lanka Immigration, the duration of stay can be extended too. This new system can promote more India to Sri Lanka tours for cultural, beach, business, or hospitality purposes.

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