Planning an international holiday just got significantly easier and more affordable for Indian travellers. Sri Lanka has officially rolled out its free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) facility for Indian passport
holders, allowing tourists to visit the island nation for up to 30 days without paying any visa application or processing fees.
The updated policy, which officially came into effect on May 25, 2026, completely waives the previously applicable $50 (approx. ₹4,150) tourist visa fee. The move is part of the country’s larger tourism revival strategy aimed at attracting more visitors from key global markets, with India remaining its top source market. Under this expanded initiative, India is among 40 countries—including Australia, the UK, the US, and China—granted the zero-cost travel benefit.
What The New Policy Update Says
Under the latest framework, eligible Indian tourists can apply for the free ETA online before their departure. The digital authorization allows a 30-day stay and includes a highly convenient double-entry facility within that period. This makes it an ideal option for travellers planning multi-city South Asian itineraries or short stopovers.
Sri Lankan authorities have clarified that while the fee has been entirely scrapped, obtaining the ETA prior to arrival remains strictly mandatory. The waiver applies to the processing charges, not the removal of entry formalities themselves. For travellers who want to stay longer than the permitted month, extensions up to 270 days can still be requested from within the country upon paying the standard extension fees.
Smooth Border Clearance: Document Checklist
For travellers, the application process remains completely digital and straightforward. To ensure a seamless entry process through immigration, authorities recommend carrying the following documents:
A passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
A printed copy of the approved, free ETA confirmation.
Confirmed return or onward flight tickets.
Proof of sufficient funds and accommodation details (hotel reservations).
The decision is expected to trigger a massive surge in spontaneous international trips, especially during peak holiday seasons. With hefty visa processing costs removed, budget-conscious backpackers and families alike are finding Sri Lanka an increasingly competitive alternative to other popular short-haul destinations like Thailand and Vietnam.
