Before traveling to Sri Lanka, we made sure to complete the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) visa process in advance to avoid any delays at the airport. Fortunately, the application is quick and easy, as it can be completed online in just a few minutes. In the article below, you will find all the steps required, along with useful tips to obtain your visa easily and without any issues.
Submitting an Online Visa Application for Sri Lanka
To apply for the ETA Visa, visit the official government website. Select the English language to navigate to the appropriate menu. Then, click on “Apply” and choose “By the applicant”. Finally, read the terms of use and click “I agree”.
Filling Out the Application
⚠️ The answers provided below are based on our personal experience at the time. You should fill in the fields according to your circumstances. Select “Apply for an Individual” and complete the required fields:
- Covid Vaccination: Select “YES” if you are vaccinated or “NO” if you are not (vaccination is not mandatory).
- Occupation: Enter your profession.
- Where you have been in the last 14 days: Select “GREECE”.
- Visa Required Days: 30 days (standard duration).
- Purpose of Visit: Sightseeing or Holidaying.
- Port of Departure: ATHENS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
- Airline / Vessel: Enter your airline, e.g., AIR ARABIA.
- Flight Number: Enter your flight number, e.g., G9502.
- Address of Stay in Sri Lanka: 51 GODAWALAYA MORRAGOLLAWA, DAMBULLA 21100, SRI LANKA.
- Security Questions: Select “NO” for all.
Payment & Confirmation
After filling in your details, double-check them and click “Confirmation”. Choose your payment method and proceed with the transaction. The total cost, including bank fees, was approximately €55.
You will receive a confirmation email immediately, and the final visa approval will be sent within 24 hours. For some members of our group, it took up to 3 business days.
Useful Tips
✔ Double-check your details before submitting to avoid mistakes.
✔ Save your reference number & confirmation email just in case.
✔ Print your visa to have it readily available upon entry to the country.
✔ If you encounter payment issues, try using a different card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) or a different bank.
✔ In case of an error, refunds are not available, and you will need to reapply and pay again.
✔ The online visa application is approximately $5 cheaper than the visa on arrival.
Additional Information
Duration of stay: The ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days in Sri Lanka for tourism purposes. If you wish to extend your stay, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.
Application timing: It is recommended to submit your application at least two weeks before departure to ensure timely processing.
Required documents at the airport: Upon arrival, you must have your visa and a passport with at least 6 months of validity. It is also advised to carry a printed copy of your visa, as it was requested both at Athens International Airport and Colombo Airport during our trip.
Now that you know everything you need to apply for your ETA visa, you’re one step closer to experiencing the magic of Sri Lanka! Apply in advance and get ready for an unforgettable journey.
💡 If you face any issues with the official website or want to avoid airport delays, you can also apply via iVisa for a faster and smoother process!
