A Welcome Change for Travellers
Sri Lanka has simplified its visa rules, replacing potential stress with a straightforward online system. As of May 2026, the country rolled out a free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme for tourists from 40 countries, including India. This
means Indian passport holders can get a 30-day tourist visa without paying any government processing fees. While the authorisation is free, it is still mandatory to obtain this ETA online before you depart. This policy is designed to boost tourism by making the country more accessible, removing the anxiety and cost often associated with visa applications.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the ETA
Getting your travel authorisation is a simple, three-step process that can be completed from home. First, visit the official Sri Lanka ETA website at eta.gov.lk. Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge unnecessary service fees. Second, fill out the online application form. You will need your passport details, a digital photograph, and information about your planned trip, like your intended address in Sri Lanka. The entire process requires no physical documents or passport copies to be sent. Finally, submit the form. Although the ETA itself is free for Indians, you will receive an official confirmation notice by email once it's processed.
Understanding the Finer Details
The free tourist ETA grants a stay of up to 30 days and cleverly includes a double-entry facility. This means you can enter Sri Lanka, potentially visit another nearby country like the Maldives, and re-enter Sri Lanka within that same 30-day validity period. However, the clock on your 30 days starts from your first arrival and does not reset upon re-entry. For those who fall in love with the island and wish to stay longer, the visa can be extended. Extensions can be applied for online or in person at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo, though standard extension fees will apply.
What to Expect on Arrival
With your ETA approval in hand (or on your phone), your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo should be smooth. While the ETA is linked electronically to your passport, it is always a good idea to carry a printed or digital copy of the approval notice. At the immigration counter, you will need to present your passport, which must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival. You may also be asked to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay and a confirmed return or onward ticket. Additionally, all travellers are required to fill out an online Arrival/Departure card within three days of their flight.
Why This Makes Sri Lanka the Perfect Getaway
The simplified and free visa process makes Sri Lanka an even more compelling destination for Indian tourists. Its proximity to India means short travel times, and the variety of experiences—from the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya to the rolling tea hills of Nuwara Eliya and the surf-friendly beaches of the south—offers something for every type of traveller. The removal of visa fees and bureaucratic hurdles makes spontaneous trips and budget-friendly holidays easier to plan than ever before. It’s a clear invitation from the Emerald Isle to come and explore its treasures without the usual pre-travel hassle.
