Travel to Sri Lanka for Vietnam citizenship

What are the rules for entering Sri Lanka in 2026?

Most foreign nationals traveling to Sri Lanka for short visits must obtain an electronic entry permit — ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) — before departure.

The permit is issued online and checked by airlines prior to boarding. Without a valid ETA, passengers may be denied boarding to Sri Lanka.

Some countries may have temporary simplified or fee-free conditions, but in most cases travelers still need to apply for ETA online before travel.

Sri Lanka has temporarily waived visa and ETA requirements for Indian citizens from February 14, 2026, in connection with the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which runs from February 7 to March 8, 2026. During this period, Indian tourists only need to have a valid passport and a return or onward ticket without prior online applications.

What is ETA and what is it for?

ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a preliminary digital permission that allows short-term travel to Sri Lanka for tourism or private visits.

It is not a physical visa in the passport but a mandatory travel authorization required for boarding a flight and entering the country.

Holders of ETA may:

• travel for tourism
• visit relatives or friends
• participate in short cultural or recreational activities

ETA does not allow employment or long-term professional activity.

How long is the ETA valid?

• Validity period: issued before travel and activated on entry
• Length of stay: up to 30 days
• Entries: usually double entry
• Extension: possible through the Department of Immigration and Emigration (up to several months depending on approval)

How much does ETA cost?

The standard tourist ETA fee is typically around 50 USD, paid online during the application.

For some nationalities, fee waivers or temporary promotional programs may apply, but travelers still need to obtain ETA before travel.

What documents are required to obtain ETA?

To apply online, travelers normally need:

• passport valid for at least 6 months after arrival
• accommodation address in Sri Lanka
• return or onward ticket
• payment card for fee payment
• email address for receiving approval

For certain travel purposes (business, transit), additional documents may be requested.

How to apply for ETA online: step-by-step

1. Go to the official website
2. Choose “Tourist ETA”
3. Enter passport and travel details
4. Complete the application form
5. Pay the fee online (if applicable)
6. Receive confirmation by email
7. Save or print the approval for travel

Approval usually arrives quickly, but applying in advance is recommended.

What documents may be checked on arrival?

At passport control officers may request:

• passport and ETA confirmation
• return or onward ticket
• accommodation details
• proof of sufficient funds
• yellow fever certificate (if arriving from risk regions)

Health insurance is mandatory.

Can the stay be extended?

Yes. Tourists can apply for an extension through:

• online service: https://www.immigration.gov.lk
• or in person at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.

Extensions are granted depending on approval.

Additional entry requirements

• Passport must be valid at least 6 months
• Cash above USD 10,000 must be declared
• Overstaying may result in fines or entry restrictions