Sri Lanka Visa FAQs - Answers to Common Visa Questions

You can apply for a Sri Lanka visa online or at a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in your home country.

The official website for online visa applications is the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) website: www.eta.gov.lk.

Visa on arrival is no longer available. You must obtain a visa before arriving in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka offers various types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, transit visas, and student visas.

Tourist visas are typically issued for a maximum stay of 30 days, with the possibility of extending it for up to 90 days.

Yes, tourist visas can be extended by visiting the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo or the relevant regional office.

The processing time for a Sri Lanka visa application is usually around 24-72 hours.

Yes, there is a visa fee that varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay.

Yes, multiple-entry visas are available for certain categories, such as business visas.

If you have a transit stay of less than 48 hours and do not leave the transit area, you may not require a transit visa.

No, working on a tourist visa is not permitted. You would need an appropriate work visa or permit.

The processing time for a work visa in Sri Lanka can vary, but it generally takes several weeks.

The required documents can vary based on the type of visa, but commonly requested documents include a passport, application form, and proof of travel arrangements.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Sri Lanka. Check your passport's validity before traveling.

Sri Lanka has specific entry requirements for individuals with criminal records. It is best to consult with a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate for guidance.

Sri Lanka has a growing medical tourism industry, and you can visit for medical treatment. Consult the relevant medical authorities and apply for a medical visa if required.

Yes, you can bring your pet to Sri Lanka, but it requires a pet import permit and compliance with certain regulations. Contact the Department of Animal Production and Health for details.

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. However, it's advisable to carry cash in remote areas.

Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists, but it's always recommended to exercise caution and stay informed about the local situation.

Yes, you can drive in Sri Lanka with a valid international driving permit (IDP) or a foreign driver's license in English.

Generally, photography is allowed in most places, but it's advisable to respect local customs and seek permission in sensitive areas.

The main international airports in Sri Lanka are Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo) and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (Hambantota).

Visa application fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.

In some cases, it may be possible to change your visa status while in Sri Lanka. Consult the Department of Immigration and Emigration for guidance.

Yes, children also require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. They must have their own passport and visa.

Yes, you can apply for a Sri Lanka visa using the passport of your choice, as long as it is valid.

While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have adequate coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Yes, you can visit Sri Lanka for religious purposes, but it's advisable to obtain the appropriate visa and follow any specific guidelines.

No, the visa fee is non-refundable, regardless of the duration of your stay.

There is no specific maximum age limit for obtaining a Sri Lanka visa.

No, visa extensions must be applied for in person at the Department of Immigration and Emigration or the relevant regional office.

Yes, you can apply for a Sri Lanka visa from any country as long as you have the necessary documents and meet the eligibility criteria.

Yes, you can visit Sri Lanka for volunteer work, but you may need to obtain a volunteer visa or work permit depending on the nature and duration of your volunteering activities.

In most cases, you cannot change or apply for a new visa while in Sri Lanka on a different visa. You will typically need to exit the country and apply from your home country or another location.

It is generally recommended to have a return or onward ticket when entering Sri Lanka, as immigration authorities may request proof of your intention to leave the country.

In some cases, it may be possible to apply for a visa extension multiple times, but it is subject to the discretion of the Department of Immigration and Emigration.

Overstaying your visa in Sri Lanka is not recommended. It can result in fines, detention, and potential difficulties when re-entering the country in the future.

Yes, you can visit Sri Lanka for business conferences or seminars by obtaining a business visa or conference visa.

If you have a travel ban or restriction imposed on you, you may not be eligible to apply for a visa to Sri Lanka.
Consult with the relevant authorities for further guidance.

Marrying a Sri Lankan citizen does not automatically grant you a visa. You would still need to apply for the appropriate visa based on your purpose of visit.

Yes, there are certain prohibited items, including narcotics, weapons, and counterfeit goods. Check with the Sri Lankan customs regulations for a comprehensive list.

Being pregnant does not typically affect your eligibility for a Sri Lanka visa, but it's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before traveling.

Depending on the contagious disease, you may be required to provide a medical clearance or undergo specific health screenings before applying for a Sri Lanka visa.

In certain circumstances, such as being hospitalized or medically unfit to travel, you may be able to extend your visa. Consult with the Department of Immigration and Emigration for guidance.

Yes, you can visit Sri Lanka for a destination wedding. Ensure you have the appropriate visa and comply with the necessary requirements for getting married in Sri Lanka.

If you have previously been denied entry to Sri Lanka, you may face challenges when applying for a visa. It is advisable to seek guidance from a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.

If you have a refugee status, you may have specific procedures for applying for a visa to Sri Lanka. Contact the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate for further information