Sri Lanka Visa and Entry Procedures: Understanding the eVisa Policy

Hey there, planning a trip to Lanka? That place is amazing! Don't worry about the visa; it's all electronic now, much easier than before. Let me break it down for you, so you'll understand it instantly.

Core: Say Goodbye to ETA, Embrace E-Visa

Previously, the document for visiting Sri Lanka was called ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). It has now been upgraded and replaced by the brand-new E-Visa (Electronic Visa) system.

In essence, it's a new website with optimized processes and interface, but the core idea remains the same: apply online, pay, receive the approval letter before departure, and then you're good to fly. No need to visit an embassy at all, which is super convenient.

How to Apply? A Step-by-Step Guide

The entire process is as simple as online shopping. Just follow these steps:

Step One: Find the "Official Website"!

This is the most crucial step! Make sure to use the official application website: srilankaevisa.lk

Do NOT just search on Baidu or Google; you'll find many agency websites that not only charge more but might also risk your personal information. Bookmark this official address and access it from there; you can't go wrong.

Step Two: Prepare Your Documents

Have these items ready when you apply to avoid any last-minute rush:

Scanned copy or clear photo of your passport's bio-page: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned departure date from Sri Lanka.
A digital passport-sized photo: White background, similar to the one for your passport.
A credit card capable of USD payments: Visa or Mastercard will work, for online visa fee payment.
Your travel itinerary information: Such as your approximate entry date, and the name and address of your first accommodation in Sri Lanka (you can just pick one from a booking website; it doesn't need to be exact).

Step Three: Fill Out the Online Form

Once on the official website, find the "Apply" button and start filling out the form. These are basic details, to be filled in English:

Name, nationality, passport number, date of birth... just copy them exactly from your passport, and be careful not to make any mistakes.
Upload your prepared passport bio-page photo and personal digital photo.
Enter your contact address in Sri Lanka (use the hotel address).
Select the visa type; for most tourists, choose the 30 Days Tourist Visa.

Step Four: Pay the Fee

After filling out the information, double-check everything. Once confirmed, you'll be redirected to the payment page. Currently, the tourist visa fee is around 50 USD (fees may change, so refer to the official website for the latest). Just pay with your credit card.

Step Five: Receive the Email, Print it Out

After payment, you'll quickly receive a confirmation email in your inbox, informing you that your application has been submitted. Usually within minutes to a few hours, you'll receive a second email with a PDF attachment, typically titled "E-VISA APPROVAL NOTICE." This is your electronic visa approval letter!

It's highly recommended that you print it out and also save a digital copy on your phone.

What to Do Upon Arrival?

When you fly into Colombo airport and go through immigration, the process is as follows:

Present Documents: Hand over your passport and the printed E-Visa approval letter together to the immigration officer. They will verify your information, stamp your passport, and you're good to go. Although officers sometimes might not look at the printed paper, you must have it ready, just in case.
Fill out the Arrival Card (now also electronic!): Previously, paper cards were distributed on the plane. Now, it's advanced, and you can fill out the electronic Arrival Card online in advance. You can find the link on the official Sri Lanka Immigration website, usually available for completion up to 3 days prior. After filling it out, a QR code will be generated; screenshot and save it. Immigration officers might ask to see it. Filling it out in advance can save a lot of time queuing at the airport, highly recommended!

A Few Tips from Experienced Travelers:

Apply in Advance: Don't wait until one or two days before departure. It's best to apply one to two weeks in advance to give yourself ample time to handle any minor issues.
Don't Make Mistakes with Information: Especially your passport number and name spelling. Even one wrong letter can invalidate your visa and waste your money. Always double-check before submitting.
Hotels and Flights: Although you don't need to provide flight and hotel bookings when applying for the visa, immigration officers might randomly check upon arrival. It's advisable to carry printed copies of your round-trip flight itinerary and hotel bookings.
Regarding Free Visas: Sri Lanka sometimes offers temporary free visa policies for certain countries, but this policy changes quickly. Currently, it is chargeable, so it's best to confirm the latest policy on the official website before your trip.

Overall, Sri Lanka's electronic visa policy offers great convenience to tourists, and the entire process is very smooth. As long as you find the correct official website and fill out the form carefully, you'll have no problems at all.

Wishing you a fantastic time in Lanka! The Ceylon tea, coastal train rides, and warm smiles there are absolutely worth it!