Visa Process for Sri Lanka
Visa Types:
- Tourist Visa: For tourism purposes (valid for 30 days, extendable up to 90 days)
- Business Visa: For business activities (valid for 30 days, extendable up to 3 months)
- Transit Visa: For travelers transiting through Sri Lanka (valid for 7 days)
- Study Visa: For students pursuing education in Sri Lanka
- Work Visa: For individuals employed in Sri Lanka
- Diplomatic Visa: For diplomatic and consular officials
Required Documents:
For Tourist Visa:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Completed visa application form
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservation)
- Proof of onward travel (e.g., flight ticket)
- Financial statement showing sufficient funds
For Other Visa Types:
Additional documents may be required, such as:
- Business letter of invitation
- Student enrollment certificate
- Work contract
- Diplomatic credentials
Application Procedures:
Online Application:
- Visit the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) website: https://www.eta.gov.lk
- Fill out the online application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee
Embassy/Consulate Application:
- Visit the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in your country
- Submit a completed visa application form
- Provide required documents
- Pay the application fee
Visa Fees:
- Tourist Visa: USD 30 for 30 days, USD 40 for 90 days
- Business Visa: USD 50
- Transit Visa: USD 20
- Study Visa: Varies depending on the duration of stay
- Work Visa: Varies depending on the occupation and employer
- Diplomatic Visa: Free
Timelines:
- Online ETA applications: Processed within 24-48 hours
- Embassy/Consulate applications: May take 7-15 business days
Additional Information:
- Visas can be obtained upon arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo.
- Visa extensions can be applied for at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.
- Overstaying a visa may result in fines and other penalties.
- It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your travel date.
- Please check the official Sri Lankan embassy or consulate website for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and procedures.
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