Sri Lanka — the teardrop island of the Indian Ocean — is one of the most accessible and rewarding travel destinations for Indian citizens. From the ancient temples of Sigiriya and the colonial charm of Galle Fort to the misty tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya and the pristine beaches of Mirissa, Sri Lanka packs extraordinary diversity into a compact island. And here is fantastic news for Indian travellers in 2026: Sri Lanka offers a FREE Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Indian citizens, making it one of the most affordable international destinations from India. In this complete guide, we cover everything you need to know about the Sri Lanka visa for Indians — the free ETA process, required documents, step-by-step application, visa on arrival, and expert travel tips to make your Sri Lanka trip memorable.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes, Indian passport holders need an authorisation to enter Sri Lanka — but the great news is that the Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is completely free for Indian citizens as of 2026. This applies to short-stay tourist visits of up to 30 days.
The ETA is an electronic visa that is linked to your passport digitally — you do not get a sticker in your passport. It allows Indian citizens to enter Sri Lanka for tourism, visiting friends and family, and short-duration business trips, with double entry permitted within the 30-day validity.
While a visa on arrival is available at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, applying online in advance is strongly recommended to avoid queuing at immigration. The online ETA process takes just a few minutes and approval typically arrives within 24 to 48 hours.
Types of Sri Lanka Visa for Indians
- Tourist ETA (Free): The most popular option for Indian travellers. Completely free, 30-day stay, double entry. Applied online at eta.gov.lk. Approved within 24 to 48 hours.
- Business ETA: For Indians visiting Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as meetings, conferences, or trade visits. Also available online at eta.gov.lk.
- Visa on Arrival: Available at Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo) and a few other entry points. A fee applies for visa on arrival (approximately USD 35 to USD 40). Applying online in advance is more convenient and avoids airport queues.
- Long-Stay Visa (Residence Visa): For Indians planning to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days. Applied through the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo after arrival.
- Student Visa: For Indians enrolled in Sri Lankan educational institutions. Applied through the Sri Lanka High Commission in New Delhi or Chennai.
- Employment Visa: For Indians with a confirmed job offer from a Sri Lankan employer. Requires approval from the Sri Lanka Board of Investment or relevant ministry.
For the vast majority of Indian tourists, the free Tourist ETA is the perfect and only option needed.
Sri Lanka Visa Fees for Indians 2026
| Visa Type | Fee | Validity | Stay Permitted | Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA (Online) | FREE | 6 months from issue | 30 days | Double entry |
| Business ETA (Online) | FREE | 6 months from issue | 30 days | Double entry |
| Visa on Arrival (Airport) | USD 35 to USD 40 (approx. Rs. 3,000) | 30 days | 30 days | Single entry |
| Long-Stay / Residence Visa | Varies (applied in Sri Lanka) | Extendable | Beyond 30 days | As approved |
| Student Visa | Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 8,000 | Duration of course | As approved | Single/multiple |
Key Takeaway: The online Tourist ETA is completely free for Indian citizens. The only cost is if you choose visa on arrival at the airport — so always apply online in advance at eta.gov.lk to save money and time.
Sri Lanka Visa Documents Required for Indians
For Tourist ETA (Online — Free):
- Valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry into Sri Lanka
- Passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp
- Confirmed return or onward flight tickets
- Hotel booking or confirmed accommodation details for your stay in Sri Lanka
- Valid email address (your ETA approval will be sent here)
- Credit or debit card for payment (only needed if visa on arrival fee applies — the online ETA is free)
For Visa on Arrival (at Airport):
- Valid Indian passport (6+ months validity, 1+ blank page)
- Completed arrival card (provided on the plane)
- USD 35 to USD 40 in cash (US dollars preferred, though Indian rupees may be accepted at some counters)
- Confirmed return flight ticket
- Hotel booking or accommodation details
Note: No document uploads are required for the online ETA application — you simply fill in your details online. However, carry printed copies of your ETA approval and all supporting documents when you travel, as Sri Lankan immigration officers may request them.
How to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the free Sri Lanka Tourist ETA online is quick, simple, and takes just 5 to 10 minutes. Here is exactly how to do it:
- Visit the official ETA portal: Go to eta.gov.lk — the official Sri Lanka government ETA website. Do not use any third-party sites that may charge fees for this free service.
- Select Individual Application: Click on “Apply ETA” and choose “Individual” application. Select “Tourist” as your visit category.
- Enter your passport details: Fill in your passport number, date of issue, date of expiry, and your personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality — India). All information must match your passport exactly.
- Enter your travel information: Provide your planned arrival date in Sri Lanka, the port of entry (usually Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo), and your accommodation address in Sri Lanka.
- Review and submit: Double-check all the information you have entered. Even a small error in your passport number or name can cause issues at immigration. Once satisfied, submit the application.
- Receive your ETA approval: The system will either approve your ETA immediately (on-the-spot approval is common) or within 24 to 48 hours via email. You will receive an ETA reference number.
- Download and print your ETA: Save your ETA approval email and print a copy to carry with you. While Sri Lankan immigration can verify your ETA electronically, carrying a printed copy is strongly recommended as a backup.
Pro Tip: Apply for your Sri Lanka ETA at least 3 to 5 days before travel, even though approval is usually quick. This gives you a buffer in case of any technical issues with the portal.
Sri Lanka Visa on Arrival for Indians
Visa on arrival is available for Indian citizens at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo, as well as at some land border crossings and the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. However, visa on arrival comes with a fee of approximately USD 35 to USD 40 — whereas the online ETA is completely free.
Visa on arrival queues at Colombo airport can be long, especially during peak season (December to April). Obtaining your free ETA online before travel saves both money and time at immigration. We strongly recommend the online ETA route for all Indian travellers.
Sri Lanka ETA Processing Time for Indians
- Online Tourist ETA: Typically approved within 24 to 48 hours. Many applicants receive immediate approval. Some applications may take up to 72 hours in rare cases.
- Visa on Arrival (Airport): Processed at the airport immigration counter on arrival. Expect 15 to 45 minutes depending on the queue length.
- Long-Stay / Residence Visa: Applied after arrival in Sri Lanka — typically takes 2 to 4 weeks through the Department of Immigration in Colombo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Sri Lanka ETA
- Using third-party websites: Many unofficial websites charge fees for the Sri Lanka ETA that is actually free on eta.gov.lk. Always use the official government portal.
- Entering incorrect passport details: Any error in your passport number, name, or date of birth will cause a mismatch at immigration. Cross-check every detail carefully.
- Forgetting to print the ETA approval: Although Sri Lankan immigration can verify ETAs electronically, carrying a printout saves hassle and avoids any technical issues at the border.
- Not checking passport validity: Your Indian passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival date in Sri Lanka. Expired or near-expiry passports will be denied entry.
- Assuming automatic extension: The 30-day ETA is not automatically extendable. If you want to stay longer, visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo well before your ETA expires.
- Ignoring the double-entry feature: Indians on the free Tourist ETA can leave Sri Lanka and re-enter once within the 30-day validity — useful if you plan a day trip to the Maldives or southern India and want to return.
Expert Tips for Your Sri Lanka Trip from India
- Book flights early: Multiple Indian airlines and Sri Lankan Airlines operate direct routes from major Indian cities — Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Hyderabad — to Colombo. Prices are very competitive during the shoulder season (May to September).
- Best time to visit: November to April is the ideal time for the western and southern coasts (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa). The east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) is best visited from May to September.
- Currency: The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the local currency. Exchange Indian rupees at Colombo airport or use ATMs — USD is also widely accepted at hotels and tourist spots.
- Transport: Sri Lanka’s scenic train routes (Kandy to Ella is world-famous) book up fast. Reserve train seats online through Sri Lanka Railways well in advance.
- Travel insurance: While not mandatory for the Sri Lanka ETA, travel insurance covering medical emergencies is strongly recommended for all international trips.
Apply for Your Sri Lanka ETA with VisaForTrip
While the Sri Lanka ETA is straightforward to apply for on your own, VisaForTrip can guide you through the process and ensure everything is correct — especially useful if you are planning a complex itinerary or need help with additional documentation.
Questions? Chat with our WhatsApp visa expert for instant, free guidance on your Sri Lanka trip planning.
Also check our guides on Thailand Visa for Indians, Malaysia Visa for Indians, and Singapore Visa for Indians for more South and Southeast Asia trip planning.
Frequently Asked Questions — Sri Lanka Visa for Indians
1. Is Sri Lanka visa free for Indians in 2026?
Yes! Sri Lanka offers a completely free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Indian citizens in 2026. The Tourist ETA allows a 30-day stay with double entry and costs nothing when applied online at eta.gov.lk. A paid visa on arrival is available at Colombo airport (approximately USD 35 to USD 40), but applying online in advance is free and recommended.
2. How do I apply for Sri Lanka ETA from India?
Visit the official government portal at eta.gov.lk and select “Apply ETA.” Choose the Tourist category, fill in your passport details and travel information, and submit. No document uploads are needed. Approval typically arrives via email within 24 to 48 hours. The entire online application takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
3. How long can Indians stay in Sri Lanka?
The free Tourist ETA allows Indian citizens to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days with double entry. You can leave and re-enter Sri Lanka once within this 30-day period. For longer stays, you need to extend your visa through the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo before your ETA expires.
4. What documents do Indians need for Sri Lanka ETA?
You need a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity from your arrival date, a confirmed return flight ticket, and your accommodation details. No document uploads are required for the online ETA application. Carry printed copies of your ETA approval and supporting documents when you travel.
5. Is visa on arrival available for Indians in Sri Lanka?
Yes, visa on arrival is available for Indians at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and some other entry points, but it costs approximately USD 35 to USD 40. Since the online ETA is completely free, applying at eta.gov.lk before travel is strongly recommended to save money and avoid airport queues.
6. How long does Sri Lanka ETA approval take?
The Sri Lanka ETA for Indians is typically approved within 24 to 48 hours of online submission. Many applications are approved instantly. Apply at least 3 to 5 days before travel as a safe buffer. In rare cases, processing may take up to 72 hours.
7. Can I extend my Sri Lanka ETA after arrival?
Yes, the 30-day Tourist ETA can be extended after arrival in Sri Lanka. Visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Battaramulla, Colombo before your ETA expires. Extensions are typically granted in 30-day increments. You can generally extend your stay up to a total of 6 months. Extension fees apply.