Hello, fellow travellers! If you’re planning a trip to the enchanting island of Sri Lanka, you’re in the right place. I’m here to guide you through obtaining a Sri Lanka on-arrival visa. This document is crucial for your journey and will ensure a smooth, hassle-free entry into this tropical paradise.
The thought of paperwork might seem daunting but fear not. I’ve been through this process and am here to share my experiences and insights, simplifying it for you. So, buckle up as we embark on this step-by-step guide to securing your Sri Lanka on-arrival visa.
Check if your country supports Sri Lanka Evisa or Visa or Visa on Arrival
| Afghanistan | visa required |
| Albania | visa required |
| Algeria | visa required |
| Angola | visa on arrival |
| Antigua and Barbuda | e-visa |
| Armenia | visa required |
| Australia | e-visa |
| Bahrain | e-visa |
| Belarus | visa required |
| Belize | visa required |
| Benin | e-visa |
| Bhutan | visa required |
| Bolivia | visa on arrival |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | visa required |
| Botswana | visa required |
| Brazil | visa required |
| Burkina Faso | visa required |
| Burundi | visa required |
| Cambodia | visa on arrival |
| Cape Verde | visa on arrival |
| Central African Republic | visa required |
| Chad | visa required |
| China | visa required |
| Colombia | e-visa |
| Comoros | visa on arrival |
| Congo | visa required |
| Costa Rica | visa required |
| Croatia | visa required |
| Cuba | visa required |
| Djibouti | e-visa |
| Dominican Republic | visa required |
| DR Congo | visa required |
| Ecuador | e-visa |
| Egypt | visa required |
| El Salvador | visa required |
| Equatorial Guinea | visa required |
| Eritrea | visa required |
| Ethiopia | e-visa |
| Gabon | e-visa |
| Ghana | visa required |
| Guatemala | visa required |
| Guinea | e-visa |
| Guinea-Bissau | visa on arrival |
| Guyana | visa required |
| Honduras | visa required |
| India | e-visa |
| Iran | e-visa |
| Iraq | visa required |
| Ireland | visa required |
| Ivory Coast | e-visa |
| Jamaica | visa required |
| Jordan | visa required |
| Kazakhstan | e-visa |
| Kenya | visa on arrival |
| Kiribati | visa required |
| Kosovo | visa required |
| Kuwait | visa required |
| Kyrgyzstan | e-visa |
| Lebanon | visa required |
| Lesotho | visa free |
| Liberia | visa required |
| Libya | visa required |
| Madagascar | visa on arrival |
| Malawi | e-visa |
| Malaysia | e-visa |
| Maldives | visa on arrival |
| Mali | visa required |
| Mauritania | visa on arrival |
| Mexico | visa required |
| Moldova | e-visa |
| Morocco | visa required |
| Mozambique | visa required |
| Myanmar | e-visa |
| Namibia | visa required |
| Nauru | visa required |
| Nepal | visa on arrival |
| Nicaragua | visa required |
| Niger | visa required |
| Nigeria | visa on arrival |
| North Korea | visa required |
| North Macedonia | visa required |
| Pakistan | visa on arrival |
| Palau | visa on arrival |
| Palestine | visa required |
| Panama | visa required |
| Paraguay | visa required |
| Peru | visa required |
| Qatar | e-visa |
| Rwanda | visa on arrival |
| Saint Lucia | visa required |
| Samoa | visa on arrival |
| Sao Tome and Principe | e-visa |
| Saudi Arabia | visa required |
| Senegal | visa on arrival |
| Serbia | visa required |
| Sierra Leone | visa on arrival |
| Slovakia | visa required |
| Slovenia | visa required |
| Somalia | visa on arrival |
| South Africa | visa required |
| South Sudan | e-visa |
| Sudan | visa required |
| Suriname | e-visa |
| Swaziland | visa required |
| Syria | visa required |
| Tajikistan | e-visa |
| Tanzania | e-visa |
| Togo | visa on arrival |
| Tonga | visa required |
| Trinidad and Tobago | visa required |
| Tunisia | visa required |
| Turkey | visa required |
| Tuvalu | visa on arrival |
| Uganda | visa on arrival |
| Ukraine | visa required |
| United Arab Emirates | e-visa |
| United Kingdom | visa required |
| Uzbekistan | e-visa |
| Venezuela | visa required |
| Yemen | visa required |
| Zambia | e-visa |
| Zimbabwe | e-visa |
What is a Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa?
The Sri Lanka on-arrival visa, also known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), is a document that permits you to enter the country. It’s an official document issued by the Sri Lanka Immigration Department that you obtain upon your arrival in the country.
This visa is primarily for short stays and is perfect for tourists, business visitors, or transit passengers. The beauty of this visa is that it eliminates the need to visit the embassy or consulate before your journey. You can apply online, and once approved; your visa will be ready for you when you land in Sri Lanka.
Why Choose a Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa?
You might be wondering why you should opt for a Sri Lanka on-arrival visa. Well, it’s simple, efficient, and convenient. This visa saves you the trouble of visiting an embassy or consulate in your home country, thus saving time and energy.
Moreover, the online application process is straightforward and user-friendly. You can apply from the comfort of your home or office, and the best part is you receive a notification of your visa approval via email.
Read: How to apply for Sri Lanka eVisa
Eligibility for Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa
Before you jump into the application process, you must check if you’re eligible for a Sri Lanka on-arrival visa. The criteria are straightforward: You must be a foreign national intending to visit Sri Lanka for a short period, at most 30 days.
Additionally, you must have a return or onward ticket and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. Lastly, you should avoid engaging in paid or unpaid employment during your visit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa
Now, let’s move on to the heart of the matter – the application process for the Sri Lanka on-arrival visa. It’s a simple process, and I’ll guide you through each step.
Firstly, you must visit the official website of the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka. Here, you’ll find the online application form for the on-arrival visa. Fill in the required details, such as personal information, passport details, and travel plans.
After completing the form, proceed to the payment section. The visa fee can be paid using a credit or debit card. Once payment is confirmed, you’ll receive an acknowledgement via email.
Essential Documents for Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa Application
When applying for your Sri Lanka on-arrival visa, ensure you have all the necessary documents. These include a valid passport with at least six months validity from arrival in Sri Lanka, confirmed return or onward tickets, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Also, a digital photograph is required. It should be recent, clear, and of good quality. Finally, you may need to provide a copy of your hotel booking or an invitation from a Sri Lankan host.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa
While the process is straightforward, there are common things many applicants need to correct. The most common one is providing incorrect or incomplete information. This can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.
Another common mistake is not checking the validity of the passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from arriving in Sri Lanka. Also, ensure that you fill out the application form correctly and completely.
Tips for a Successful Sri Lanka On-Arrival Visa Application
Start the process early to increase your chances of a successful application. This gives you ample time to gather all necessary documents and address any issues.
Ensure all your documents are valid and up to date. Also, double-check all the information you provide in your application for accuracy. Finally, keep a copy of your visa approval email. You’ll need to present it upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
What to Expect After Applying for a Sri Lanka On Arrival Visa
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email. This email contains your visa details and should be kept safe, as you’ll need to present them upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
Upon arrival, you’ll be directed to the Immigration counter, where your visa will be stamped into your passport. And voila, you’re ready to explore the beautiful island of Sri Lanka!
Read: How to apply and get Thailand visa on arrival
Applying for a Sri Lanka on-arrival visa might seem tedious, but it doesn’t have to be. With this step-by-step guide, you’re well on your way to a hassle-free entry into this tropical paradise.
Remember, preparation is key. Ensure you have all the necessary documents and provide accurate information in your application. And most importantly, start early.
Safe travels and I hope you have an unforgettable time exploring the wonders of Sri Lanka!