Travel by Indian passport holders to Sri Lanka has become much easier recently. Here’s everything you need to know: ETA, visa-free regimes, required documents, duration of stay, entry ports, and things to watch out for.
Current Status: Indian Citizens & Sri Lanka Visa / ETA
- Sri Lanka has introduced a free visa regime for Indian passport holders under certain conditions. Indians are eligible for a free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for tourism purposes.
- The free ETA allows Indians to stay up to 30 days. Double entry is permitted under this regime.
- However, the free visa arrangement has time‐limits / pilot periods; check if the period is still valid at the time of your travel. Some announcements say until 31 March 2025 the free ETA / visa scheme is in place.
What You Need: Documents & Eligibility
To apply for the ETA (or visa via the ETA process), Indian travellers will typically need:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport validity | Passport should be valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival in Sri Lanka. |
| ETA application | Must be applied online (official government ETA / visa site). Prior ETA approval is required before travel. The process is done via the official portal (e.g. “eta.gov.lk” or Sri Lankan Department of Immigration & Emigration) |
| Return ticket / Onward journey | Proof of return or onward flight booking is usually required. |
| Proof of funds | Sometimes required to show you can support yourself during your stay. |
| Printed ETA approval | It’s recommended to have a printed or digital copy of the approved ETA to show at immigration. |
Duration & Types of Stay
- Under the free ETA regime, stay is up to 30 days, possible with double entry in many cases.
- For tourism or business purposes. The ETA is not valid for employment, long-term stay, or residence.
- Transit ETAs are possible, generally valid for short stays if you are passing through to another country. Some sources say up to 48 hours for transit.
Entry Points & Immigration
- Entry through major international airports such as Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo). Also through authorized ports such as Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, Colombo Port, Galle Port, Trincomalee Port, depending on your mode of arrival.
- At the immigration checkpoint, you may be asked for:
- Passport + ETA approval
- Return or onward journey ticket
- Possibly proof of accommodation and funds
Important Updates, Caveats, & Things to Double Check
- Validity of free ETA regime: Some free‐visa or free ETA arrangements are pilot or temporary. After their expiry, normal ETA fees might apply. Ensure you check current government websites.
- Visa on arrival: Traditional visa on arrival without an ETA is generally not available for Indian citizens. You must apply for ETA ahead of travel.
- ETA application delays: Processing time can vary. Sometimes approvals may take 24-48 hours or more, so apply a few days in advance.
Sample Checklist Before Departure
Here’s a quick “ready-to-go” checklist for Indian travellers to Sri Lanka:
- Passport valid for ≥ 6 months.
- Apply ETA online through official site, get approval.
- Print or save ETA approval.
- Confirm return ticket (or onward journey).
- Proof of sufficient funds (carry bank statement / cards).
- Accommodation booking details.
- Check if the free ETA or visa scheme is still active for your travel dates.
- Make sure you enter through a recognized entry point.
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