Sri Lanka Passport & Visa Information

What passport and visa do I need to visit Sri Lanka?

Passports
It is a requirement of the Sri Lankan Government that British visitors to Sri Lanka possess a valid 10 year passport and that the passport has at least six months validity from your date of entry. Please check that your passport complies with this decree well in advance of travel.

Visas
The government of Sri Lanka requires British passport holders to acquire a visa. This can be done in advance of travel or on arrival in Sri Lanka.

Online applications
We recommend applying for your visa online at least 2-3 weeks before departure, via the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system: eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. The approval notice is usually issued within 24 hours, which needs to be presented on arrival in order to obtain your visa once in Sri Lanka.

On arrival
It is possible to acquire a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka without the online authorisation letter, however please note that visa costs are often higher. We also recommend obtaining the visa confirmation letter in advance, which should avoid any major delays on your arrival in Sri Lanka.

Tourist visas are usually issued for 30 days. For further information on visa extensions and requirements please visit: immigration.gov.lk/index_e.php or contact the Sri Lankan High Commission in London srilankahc.uk/visa/. The latter is open for consular service on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Appointments are usually not necessary but it is best to check prior to arrival by sending an email to consular.london@mfa.gov.lk. Visas fees range from US$50 - US$75 for single and multiple entry options.            

You do not need a visa if you are travelling through Sri Lanka by air, as long as the connecting flight is within 24 hours of your arrival.

How to book
See our selection of holidays to Sri Lanka, plus when to visit and suggested tours. To discuss your travel needs, complete an enquiry form or call our Asia experts on 020 7720 9285.