Sri Lanka ETA: fee, stay & how to apply in 2026
Last reviewed 12 July 2026 · Source: Sri Lanka ETA (official portal)The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is Sri Lanka’s online pre-approval for short tourist and business visits. Most visitors need one before arriving at Colombo (Bandaranaike) or other ports. The fee and rules have been revised several times in recent years, so this guide focuses on how the system works and stresses confirming the current fee on the official portal.
At a glance
- Document
- ETA (tourist / business)
- Official fee
- Set online (confirm on portal)
- Maximum stay
- Up to 30 days
- Entries
- Double (tourist)
- Processing
- Usually within 24–72 hours
- Extension
- Possible in Sri Lanka
- Passport validity
- 6 months on entry
- Apply at
- Official Sri Lanka ETA portal
Who needs an ETA
Most nationalities require an ETA for tourism or business. A short list of countries is exempt or has special arrangements. Because Sri Lanka has adjusted its visa handling — including which authority runs the portal — always start from the official government ETA site rather than a search-engine advert.
Fee
Because the tourist ETA fee has been changed more than once recently, we deliberately don’t print a fixed number here. The portal shows the current government fee for your category and nationality at checkout.
| Category | Government fee | Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA | See official portal | Up to 30 days, double entry |
| Business ETA | See official portal | Up to 30 days |
| Transit | Typically free | Up to 2 days |
Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months from entry.
- A return or onward ticket and proof of funds (may be checked).
- A valid email address and a payment card.
How to apply
- Open the official Sri Lanka ETA portal.
- Select the tourist (or business/transit) category.
- Enter your passport and travel details exactly as printed.
- Pay the government fee shown at checkout.
- Receive the ETA approval notice by email; carry a printout with your passport.
Extending your stay
The 30-day tourist ETA can usually be extended inside Sri Lanka through the Department of Immigration and Emigration, up to a longer total. If you already know you want a longer trip, ask about the extension process on arrival or check the official portal.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Sri Lanka ETA?
The fee has changed recently, so check the current figure on the official portal at checkout. It is paid online and non-refundable if refused.
How long can I stay?
Up to 30 days on the tourist ETA, with double entry, and extensions are available in-country.
Is transit free?
A short transit ETA is typically free, but confirm on the official portal for your route.
How soon should I apply?
Apply a few days before travel; approvals usually come within one to three days.
Which site is official?
Start from the government ETA portal directly rather than an advert — many paid intermediaries rank highly in search results.
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