New Visa Formalities
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Foreign nationals, who intend to visit Sri Lanka for Short Stay, must obtain Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), prior to their arrival with effect from 01.01.2012. The ETA is issued through on-line system. No passport copies, documents or photograph are required. There is no requirement to endorse the ETA in the passport. | |
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Purposes considered for short visit to Sri Lanka
- Holiday visits
- Short business trips
- Transits
Validity of ETAThe ETA is initially limited to 30 days from the date of arrival and it may be extended up to six (06) months in two instances at the Department of Immigration and Emigration (head office – No 41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha, Punchi Borella, Colombo 10) of Sri Lanka.ETA holder is entitled to enter Sri Lanka within three months from the date of issue of ETA.How to applyLog on to the web www.eta.gov.lk and fill in the ETA application formOther options1. Apply through Travel agents2. Airlines3. Tour operators4. Registered agents5. Embassies6. Head office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration7. ETA counter at the airport (will apply additional fee)If the application is submitted successfully, an acknowledgement will be sent to the principle applicant or to the third party as requested in the application. In the event of ETA being rejected the system will send a referral notification to the applicant and he/she needs to contact the nearest Sri Lanka Overseas Mission for necessary assistance. If ETA is granted, the applicant will be notified accordingly. It is advisable for you to bring a copy of ETA approval notice along with you.Further, you should fulfill the following requirements at the port of entry:
- A Passport valid for not less than 6 months from the date of arrival;
- A Confirmed Return ticket;
- Sufficient funds to meet the expenses during the stay
Existing visa facilities remain valid until 31st December 2011. During this period tour operators and individuals can arrange tours and bookings valid until 31st March without going through ETA.
