Sri Lanka Visa Guide for Europeans
Everything you need to know about navigating the online entry process.
Honest Local Warning: Do not leave your application until you are sitting at the boarding gate in Frankfurt or London. If the server goes down or your payment card flags a security alert, you will miss your flight. Furthermore, if you plan to stay past 30 days without extensions or think you can work remotely on a standard entry without proper clearance, skip this pathway entirely.
Do Europeans Need a Visa?
Yes. Citizens of all European countries, including the UK, Germany, France, and all EU/EEA states, require a visa to enter Sri Lanka.
The process is straightforward, entirely online, and takes most applicants less than 10 minutes to complete. The system is called the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation).
Important Portal Alert
Only apply through the official government site: eta.gov.lk. Third-party sites often charge 3 to 5 times the official 20 USD fee.
ETA Key Facts
- Cost: 20 USD (Approx 18-19 EUR)
- Processing: 24-48 hours
- Stay: Up to 30 days (initial)
- Entries: Double-entry within 6 months
- Validity: 6 months from approval
How to Apply: Step by Step
Go to the Official Website
Open eta.gov.lk. This is the only official government portal. Check the URL carefully before entering any payment details.
Select Your Application Type
Choose "Individual" and select "Tourist" as the purpose of visit. Most European holiday visitors fit this category.
Enter Personal Details
Provide your name exactly as it appears on your passport. You will need your passport number, expiry date, and the address of your first hotel in Sri Lanka.
Pay the Fee
Payment of 20 USD is made by credit or debit card. You will receive an immediate email confirmation of payment.
Wait for Approval
Approval usually arrives within 24-48 hours. The approval letter will be sent as a PDF attachment to your email.
Print or Save Your ETA
Keep a digital copy on your phone. A printed backup is recommended for check-in and arrival immigration points.
Passport Requirements
6 Months Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. Refusal of entry is common for those who ignore this rule.
Blank Pages
You must have at least one completely blank page for the entry stamp. Stamping over existing visas is not allowed under local regulations.
Name Match
The name on your ETA must match your passport exactly. This includes any middle names listed on your official documentation. Consistency is key.
What to Expect on Arrival
Follow Signs to Immigration
Follow signs for "Passport Control". The walk takes about 10 minutes. Baggage is collected after you pass immigration checks.
Complete Arrival Card
Fill out the disembarkation card given on the plane. You will need your flight number and first hotel address ready.
Join Foreign Nationals Queue
Join the "Foreign Nationals" queue line. Peak season wait times can be 45 to 90 minutes.
Present Documents
Hand over your passport, ETA (digital or print), and arrival card. Processing is usually completed under two minutes.
Arriving in Colombo?
Always use the official pre-paid taxi desk inside the arrivals hall or a pre-booked transfer option. Avoid unofficial touts operating outside the airport gates.
Common Questions
While technically possible, it is discouraged. On-arrival processing is slower, more expensive, and can cause lengthy delays. The online ETA is simpler and standard.
Yes. Every traveller, including infants and children, requires their own individual ETA regardless of age.
The ETA is valid for 6 months from its approval date. As long as you enter within that 6-month window, your ETA remains valid.
Visa Sorted? Plan Your Route
Discover how to make the most of your stay with our complete 7 and 14-day itineraries.