Tourist Visa
Planning your next vacation? We simplify the tourist visa application process, helping you explore new destinations with ease.
Whether you're traveling for leisure, visiting family, or exploring cultural experiences, our visa experts ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey from application to approval.
Eligibility
A Tourist Visa is given to those visiting Sri Lanka for:
- Holidaying
- Visiting friends and relatives
- Medical treatment including Ayurvedic and yoga
- Participate in sporting events, competitions, and activities relating to cultural performance
Sri Lankan tourist visas are normally issued through Sri Lankan Diplomatic Missions overseas, which will be endorsed on passports and usually valid for three months. After arrival, visitors could seek an extension for the tourist visa for up to six months.
However, for promotion of tourism and to facilitate entry of tourists to Sri Lanka, the Department of Immigration and Emigration has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. The ETA allows tourists to apply for authorization online to travel and remain in Sri Lanka for one month. No passport copies, documents, or photographs are required. There is no requirement to endorse the ETA on the passport.
After arrival, tourists who may wish to stay longer than one month may apply for an extension to the ETA for up to six months.
Application Procedures
Tourists can now use one of the following methods at their convenience:
- ETA via online services - Click Here
- ETA at Immigration Services Center in Colombo - Click Here
Immigration Services Center in Colombo
You can now apply for an ETA at our Immigration Services Center in Colombo. The center works closely with the Department of Immigration Sri Lanka.
Applying at our Immigration Services Center is highly recommended if you are planning to invite foreign nationals to Sri Lanka. We also offer additional services such as document collection from doorsteps and delivering back ETA.
Document Requirement For ETA
- Completed application form
- Copy of the data page of the applicant’s passport
- ETA fees and our service fees
Processing Time And Fees
If you apply for ETA through our Immigration Services Center, we guarantee your ETA on the same day.
Government ETA fee for tourists is:
- 15 USD for nationals of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Countries
- 35 USD for other nationalities
As circumstances of every case are different, our service fee depends on several factors, including the selection of additional services, and can only be determined after all information is available to us.
However, as part of our policy to provide transparent and responsible service, our service fee will be clearly notified before we accept your application.
How To Apply
Please visit our Immigration Services Center located in Colombo.
Call our helpdesk at +94 777 777 777 or email your request to [email protected].
Applying via Sri Lanka Diplomatic Missions Overseas
You can apply for tourist visas valid for three months at Sri Lanka Diplomatic Missions overseas. This method is recommended for those who are not able to apply online or need to have a visa endorsement on their passport before traveling to Sri Lanka.
We advise you to contact your nearest Sri Lankan Diplomatic Mission or Consulate. Click Here to check the document requirements and applicable fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about tourist visas
The documents needed for a tourist visa vary by country, but typically include:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Travel itinerary or return flight ticket
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, pay slips, etc.)
- Travel insurance (in some cases)
Check the official embassy website of your destination country for specific requirements.
The processing time for a tourist visa can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on:
- The country of destination
- The time of year and application volume
- Your application completeness
- Your travel history and background
Most tourist visas are processed within 5 to 15 working days. Some embassies also offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
No, tourist visas are strictly for leisure, family visits, or short business meetings. They do not permit employment or long-term studies. Working on a tourist visa is considered a violation of immigration rules and can lead to penalties or bans.
If you wish to work abroad, you must apply for an appropriate work visa or permit.
The allowed stay varies by country and the visa type. Common durations include:
- 30 days
- 60 days
- 90 days
Some visas are single-entry, while others may be multiple-entry valid for 6 months or more. Always check the visa stamp or approval letter for exact validity and stay limits.
In some countries, tourist visas can be extended under specific conditions. Extensions usually require:
- A valid reason (e.g., illness, canceled flights, family emergencies)
- Application before visa expiry
- Payment of extension fees
Overstaying your visa without an approved extension can result in fines, future visa denials, or deportation. Always consult with local immigration authorities or legal advisors regarding extension options.
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