Sri Lanka visa for Indian passport holders

Indian nationals apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before flying to Sri Lanka.

e-VisaUp to 30 days, extendable

Sources Documents How to apply Good to know FAQs Plan your trip

Authority first

Verify the rule with the destination government

Deal4Flight turns published requirements into a planning checklist. The official immigration or embassy source remains authoritative and should be checked again before booking and departure.

Open official portal

Passport validity

At least 6 months from date of entry

Stay duration

Up to 30 days, extendable

Government fee

Free ETA for Indian passport holders under the current 40-country scheme

Processing

Usually within 24 hours; often instant for straightforward applications

Official information and traveller support

Official portal

Sri Lanka Immigration — free tourist ETA scheme

Documents required

Passport valid for 6+ months
Recent digital passport-size photograph
Confirmed return or onward travel ticket
Valid email address to receive the ETA approval

Step-by-step: how to apply

1
Apply online for the ETA
Fill in the Sri Lanka ETA application with passport and travel details on the official ETA portal.
2
Upload your photo
Provide a recent digital photograph as specified in the form.
3
Submit through the official ETA channel
Indian passport holders are currently eligible for the free 30-day tourist ETA; avoid paying a third-party service fee unless you knowingly choose an agent.
4
Receive ETA approval by email
Approval is typically emailed within a day; print or save it on your phone.
5
Travel and present ETA at immigration
Show your ETA approval and passport at Bandaranaike International Airport immigration.

Entry readiness

What to verify before booking and boarding

Entry eligibility is broader than the visa itself. Use these checks alongside the destination's official portal and your airline's travel-document guidance.

Trip purpose and duration

Confirm that e-visa conditions cover your real reason for visiting Sri Lanka and your complete intended stay.

Names and passport details

Match the booking, application and passport exactly. Check expiry, blank pages and physical condition.

Onward travel and accommodation

Keep return or onward tickets, stay details and host information accessible offline when required.

Transit and arrival formalities

Check every connection for transit permission, baggage recheck, terminal change, health or digital arrival forms.

Avoid delays and refusal

Common issues travellers can prevent

Using an unofficial application site that adds fees or captures personal data.
Submitting an unclear scan, unsuitable photograph or inconsistent passport details.
Assuming a valid visa removes the need for onward travel, funds or accommodation evidence.
Ignoring transit rules because the traveller does not plan to leave the airport.

Good to know

• From 25 May 2026, Indian passport holders are among 40 nationalities eligible for a free 30-day tourist ETA with double entry; an ETA is still required before arrival.
• ETA is tied to your passport number, so double-check details before submitting.
• A short-stay extension can be requested from the Department of Immigration in Colombo if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Sri Lanka ETA free for Indians?

Yes. Indian passport holders are currently eligible for a free 30-day tourist ETA under Sri Lanka's 40-country scheme. The ETA application is still required before arrival.

How soon before travel should I apply?

Apply at least a few days before departure, though many approvals come through within 24 hours.

Does a Sri Lanka visa or entry exemption guarantee admission?

No. The airline checks whether you appear eligible to travel, while Sri Lanka immigration makes the final entry decision. Keep your passport, onward travel, accommodation and any requested supporting evidence ready.

Should I book non-refundable flights before confirming Sri Lanka entry requirements?

Avoid non-refundable commitments until you understand the applicable entry route, document requirements and processing time, unless you accept the risk or an application specifically requires a reservation.

This guide is general information for Indian passport holders, not legal or immigration advice. Visa rules, fees, documents and processing times change often — always confirm current requirements on the Sri Lanka government's official immigration or embassy website, or through a licensed visa agent, before applying or booking non-refundable travel.