Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

Indian passport holders generally need an approved Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization, or another valid entry permission, before they travel. The ETA is applied for online through the official Sri Lanka ETA portal. Rules and fee status can change, so this page explains the general steps and what to check, and it points you to the official portal for the current position. Visa assistance is included in our Sri Lanka packages, and flights are booked separately.

Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka?

In most cases, yes. Indian citizens generally need an approved Sri Lanka ETA or other valid entry permission before they fly. Check the current official exemption and eligibility rules for your passport type, because these can change. Do not assume you can enter without an approval, and do not book non-refundable flights until your entry status is clear.

What is the Sri Lanka ETA?

The Electronic Travel Authorization is an online entry approval for visitors to Sri Lanka. You apply through the official Sri Lanka ETA portal, and the approval is linked to your passport. Keep a copy of the approval with you when you travel. Use only the official portal, because unofficial sites may charge more or collect your details without providing an approval.

Is the ETA free?

The official portal states that eligible nationals can receive a 30-day tourist ETA free of charge from 25 May 2026. Confirm Indian eligibility and the current fee status immediately before you pay, because rules can change. If a fee applies to your application, pay it only on the official portal. Any visa or ETA charge is separate from our package price.

How long does processing take?

Typical processing is often within 24 to 72 hours, but travellers should not rely on that. Apply several days before departure, and leave more time during busy travel periods, such as December to March. If your approval does not arrive in time, your flights and hotels could be affected, so an early application protects your plans.

What do you need to apply?

Have these details ready before you start the online form:

• A passport valid for at least six months from the date you arrive in Sri Lanka.
• Your passport details, entered exactly as printed on the data page.
• Your travel dates, with onward or return travel details.
• Your accommodation details for the first night and the rest of your stay.
• A way to pay, if a charge applies to your eligibility.

Keep copies of your passport and approval, and carry them with you when you fly.

What do you need on arrival?

Carry your passport, your ETA approval, your return or onward travel details and your accommodation details. Immigration officers may ask to see them. Keep the documents together in your hand luggage, so you can show them quickly at the check-in desk and at arrival.

How should you apply?

1. Check the current eligibility and fee status on the official Sri Lanka ETA portal.
2. Prepare your passport details, travel dates and accommodation information.
3. Enter the details exactly as they appear in your passport, including any spelling and date format.
4. Submit the application and wait for the approval, which is usually sent by email.
5. Save a copy of the approval, and print it if you can, before you travel.

What mistakes should you avoid?

• Using an unofficial website, which may charge more or fail to issue an approval.
• Entering passport details that do not match the data page.
• Arriving with a passport valid for less than six months from arrival.
• Applying at the last minute, when processing delays can disrupt a flight.
• Assuming old information still applies, because entry rules can change.
• Not carrying a copy of the approval, the onward ticket and your accommodation details.

Visa charges and fees

Any visa or ETA charge is separate from our Sri Lanka package price, and the amount depends on eligibility and the rules in force when you apply. We do not list a fee here, because it can change. The official portal shows the current position, so check it before you pay. Your planner can tell you what help is available with your application.

Does a Tripstor package include visa help?

Yes. Visa assistance is included in our Sri Lanka packages, such as the Sri Lanka Classic 6N and the Sri Lanka Honeymoon 6N. Our packages are land-only, so flights, travel insurance and any visa or ETA charge are arranged and paid separately. Ask your planner what support you will get for your application before you book.

Plan your Sri Lanka trip

Once your entry is sorted, see how to get there in how to reach Sri Lanka, pick your dates in the best time to visit Sri Lanka, and browse our Sri Lanka tour packages. For the full picture of the destination, return to the Sri Lanka travel guide.