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Sri LankaAsia · South Asia

7 visa-free · Data updated 2026-09-09

Entry overview

Electronic authorisation

Apply online for an electronic travel authorisation (ESTA, eTA, K-ETA…) before departure.

Permitted stay

30 days

Policy note：ETA required; free of charge for many nationalities

Entry overview

Sri Lanka sits in South Asia, part of Asia, and is one of the 233 countries and territories covered by VisaMap. This page summarises how to enter Sri Lanka, the visa categories available, standard document checklists, the application process and frequently asked questions. Always confirm current rules with official sources before departure.

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Visa categories available

  • Electronic travel authorisation (eTA / ESTA)

    Not a visa but a pre-screening for visa-exempt travellers. Most decisions arrive within minutes to 72 hours, the authorisation is electronically linked to your passport, and it is usually valid for 2–5 years with multiple entries. Examples: US ESTA, Canada eTA, Korea K-ETA, UK ETA, New Zealand NZeTA.

    Mandatory for visa-exempt travellers heading to countries that pre-screen arrivals electronically — without it you will be denied boarding.

  • Transit visa / transit without visa

    Needed when connecting through a third country. Some places offer 24–240 hours of transit without visa (China 240 hours, Singapore 96-hour VFTF, Japan shore pass), usually requiring onward tickets and staying within a designated area.

    Long layovers, airport changes, or a short stopover en route.

  • Work, study and residence permits

    For long-term work, study or residence. Usually requires sponsorship from an employer or school, qualifications, a police clearance certificate and a medical exam, plus residence registration after arrival.

    When staying longer than a visa-free or short-stay entry allows.

Standard documents

  • 1Passport valid at least 6 months beyond arrival with two blank pages
  • 2Recent passport photo on a white background (35×45mm or as required)
  • 3Return or onward flight booking
  • 4Proof of accommodation for the whole stay
  • 5Proof of funds covering the trip (3–6 months of bank statements, deposit certificate or payslips)
  • 6Travel medical insurance for the whole trip (Schengen requires €30,000 minimum cover)
  • 7Approved authorisation confirmation
  • 8A card to pay the application fee

Application process

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Fill in personal, passport and trip details on the official site or app.

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Pay the fee online and keep the application number.

  3. 3

    Step 3

    Wait for the decision (minutes to 72 hours) and check your email or the app.

  4. 4

    Step 4

    No printing needed — it is linked to your passport, but keep a screenshot.

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FAQ

Do United States passport holders need a visa for Sri Lanka?+

According to our policy database, United States passport holders enter Sri Lanka under “Electronic authorisation”, normally for 30 days. Rules change — always confirm with official sources before you fly.

Are visa validity and permitted stay the same thing for Sri Lanka?+

No. Validity is the window in which you may use the visa; permitted stay is how long you may remain per entry. Multi-entry visas may also cap total days (for example 90 days in any 180).

Can I extend my stay or change my status in Sri Lanka?+

Some places allow in-country extensions or a change of status, usually with a valid reason, proof of funds and an application before your current stay expires. Check with the local immigration authority before travelling.

Do I need a transit visa to connect through Sri Lanka?+

If you stay airside and do not change terminals, most countries do not require one. If you need to enter the country, collect baggage or change airports, a transit visa or transit exemption may apply.

Can I work or study long term in Sri Lanka on this basis?+

Visa-free, VOA and tourist entries normally exclude paid work and long-term study — you need a dedicated work, study or residence permit.

Entry rules by passport

Sri Lanka · 233

(233)

Visa category guide

  • Visa-free entry

    Visa free · Suited to short tourism, family visits, transit and informal business meetings — paid work is not allowed.

  • Electronic travel authorisation (eTA / ESTA)

    eTA · Mandatory for visa-exempt travellers heading to countries that pre-screen arrivals electronically — without it you will be denied boarding.

  • Visa on arrival

    Visa on arrival · A fallback for late bookings — expect queues at peak times.