Sri Lanka Visa for USA Citizens

Sri Lanka is one of the most affordable countries for US tourists. You stay at luxurious resorts at reasonable rates, do whale watching in Mirissa, or dive in Hikkaduwa! 

You can even rent an auto and drive across the country. An added benefit for USA citizens is that they are eligible for an evisa to visit Sri Lanka.

Here is everything you need to know about Sri Lanka eVisa for USA citizens.

Types of Sri Lanka eVisa for USA Citizens

Here are different types of Sri Lanka eVisa validity and duration for USA tourists:

Sri Lanka eVisa Fees for USA Nationals

Visiting Sri Lanka is pocket-friendly for USA nationals. Let’s review the Sri Lanka eVisa fees for USA nationals:

The payment can be made at the Bandaranaike International Airport in designated foreign currencies equivalent to the value of US Dollars. The balance will be in Sri Lankan Rupees. 

Sri Lanka eVisa Eligibility Criteria for USA Citizens

The generic Sri Lanka eVisa eligibility for USA citizens are:

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arriving in Sri Lanka.
• Purpose: Your visit must be for tourism, business, medical treatment, or a conference.
• Duration: The maximum stay allowed on an eVisa is 30/90 days.
• Legal Port of Entry: You must enter Sri Lanka through one of the designated airports or seaports.
• Completed eVisa Application: Incomplete or partially completed eVisa applications are rejected immediately. Make sure all the sections are filled out.
• Old Passports: Include all old passports and any others for dual/multiple citizenship along with your current passport. Declare lost or retained passports from other countries in writing.
• Compulsory Visa Fee: You must pay the latest fee for Sri Lanka eVisa for USAs.

Note: Double-check application information before submitting your application to the official electronic visa portal. 

• Mistakes cannot be corrected after submission. 
• You will need to submit a new application with a new fee. 
• Incomplete/erroneous applications will be rejected.

Sri Lanka eVisa Documents for USA Tourists

Here’s a list of documents needed for Sri Lanka eVisa for USA tourists

• A passport valid for not less than 6 months from arrival.
• A confirmed return ticket.
• Sufficient funds are needed to cover the expenses during the stay.

How to Apply for a Sri Lankan eVisa for USA Citizens?

Here’s how to apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa for USA citizens:

Step 1: Visit the official portal for the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization system

Step 2: Click on Apply to get started on the application. You can apply for yourself, your group, or a third party. 

Step 3: Fill out your personal details and provide basic information about your passport. 

Step 4: Fill out the child’s information if it is a part of your passport. You must add travel information. 

Step 5: Provide your contact details and complete the declaration to process your visa. 

Step 6: Review your information before submission. 

Step 7: You can choose your payment options and get a confirmation about your Sri Lankan ETA. 

Sri Lanka eVisa Processing Time & Next Steps

The generic Sri Lanka evisa processing time for USA citizens is 48 hours. If you are facing delays, you can also check the status of your Sri Lanka tourist eVisa for USA tourists through the official portal. 

Here’s a short guide:

• Visit the portal and go to check the visa status option
• Enter the following details
• Confirmation code or tick the box if you don’t know it.
• Passport number
• Nationality

• Continue to check your evisa status for USA citizens.
• If approved, print out a copy of your evisa and present it to Immigration at the time of entry. 
• If your visa is denied, you can reapply after consulting the Embassy.

Remember: You cannot enter Sri Lanka without an ETA confirmation.

Sri Lanka eVisa Rejection Reasons for USA Citizens

These are the top reasons for a Sri Lanka eVisa rejection for USA citizens:

• Providing inaccurate or missing details in the application form. 
• Submitting multiple or unnecessary visa applications. 
• If your passport validity is less than 6 months. 
• Your visa can be rejected if you have a criminal record.

Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka for USA Citizens 

Here are some top reasons that make Sri Lanka a fantastic destination for your next holiday:

Climate 

Sri Lanka, a tropical paradise with lush rainforests, golden beaches, and ancient ruins, provides a captivating escape for USA travelers seeking warmth and cultural immersion.

Sri Lanka also has a fantastic hill station with beautiful tea gardens that are a must-visit for travelers who love cold weather. 

Flight

Flying to Sri Lanka from the USA is highly convenient for US tourists. There are multiple airlines at affordable costs. 

• Major Airlines: Cathay Pacific, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air Canada, China Eastern
• Flight Duration: 20-40 hours
• Non-stop Routes: There are no nonstop flights between USA and Sri Lanka. You can expect layovers in Qatar, Canada, UAE or China depending on your airline.
• Major Airports: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB); Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI)
• Median Round-Trip Ticket Price: 1,000 to 1,200 USD

Visa Requirements & Ease of Entry

While USA citizens need a Sri Lanka eVisa, the application process is easy and can be completed online. 

• Visa: Yes, required for USA citizens
• Visa Type: eVisa
• Visa Application Fee
• Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days: $50 (48.67 Euro)
• Tourist Visa Single Entry up to 90 days: $50 (48.67 Euro)
• Tourist Visa with Double Entry up to 90 days: $50 (48.67 Euro)
• Processing Time: 48 hours
• Rejection Rate: Low for tourist visas

Currency Exchange & Affordability

Sri Lanka offers a more budget-friendly experience than other European destinations. Sri Lanka is a country where you can experience luxury at affordable rates. 

• Exchange Rate: 1 United States Dollar = 293.27 Sri Lankan Rupee
• One-Week Budget in Sri Lanka: 500-1000 USD

Tourism Trends & Popularity

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is experiencing a significant rebound, with tourist arrivals surging 21.6% in November 2024 alone. This surpasses initial targets and demonstrates strong demand. India remains the top source market, followed by Russia, the UK, and USA.

Language Support

Sri Lankans are extremely helpful but not fluent in English. However, you can use Google Translate to convey your message. 

Menus are often available in Sinhalese, Tamil, and English, especially in popular tourist destinations and restaurants catering to international visitors. However, knowing a few local phrases is always a good idea, as not all establishments may have English menus.

Religious & Cultural Ties

Sri Lanka’s rich tapestry of culture is deeply intertwined with its religious diversity. Buddhism, the predominant religion, has profoundly shaped the nation’s art, architecture, and philosophy. Hinduism, prevalent among the Tamil minority, adds another layer of vibrant traditions, festivals, and beliefs. 

Islam and Christianity, while smaller in proportion, also contribute significantly to the country’s cultural mosaic, enriching it with diverse customs, cuisines, and architectural styles. This harmonious coexistence of faiths has fostered a unique blend of traditions that defines Sri Lankan identity.

Local Travel Guides & Apps

Finding local travel guides or mobile apps in English is possible. You can easily find travel guides and apps in English far more quickly. Sri Lankans understand English but are not fluent in the language.

You can easily find bilingual help desks at major tourist centers to experience Sri Lankai culture.

FAQs

What is the Sri Lanka eVisa, and who can apply?

Yes, USA citizens are eligible for a Sri Lanka eVisa. A Sri Lanka eVisa is an electronic visa for tourists who wish to visit the country. You can apply through this official portal. 

What documents are needed for a Sri Lanka eVisa?

The documents needed for Sri Lanka eVisa for USA tourists are a copy of your passport, return ticket, and sufficient funds. 

How long is the Sri Lanka eVisa valid for USA citizens?

There are 3 types of Sri Lanka tourist eVisa for USA citizens. 

• Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days
• Tourist Visa Single Entry up to 90 days
• Tourist Visa with Double Entry for up to 90 days

How much does a Sri Lanka eVisa cost?

The Sri Lanka eVisa for USA tourists costs:

• Tourist visa with Double Entry for 30 days: $50 (48.67 Euro)
• Tourist Visa Single Entry up to 90 days: $50 (48.67 Euro)
• Tourist Visa with Double Entry up to 90 days: $50 (48.67 Euro)

Can I apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa?

Yes, you can apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa as a USA citizen. Here is the Sri Lanka eVisa application process for USA citizens:

• Register yourself on the Sri Lanka eVisa online portal
• Fill out the online form (it will take 10 minutes)
• Upload a copy of your passport 
• Review the document and pay the fees online
• Receive your Sri Lanka eVisa in 48 hours

What happens if my eVisa application is rejected?

If your Sri Lanka eVisa is rejected, you can reapply for a new visa application. Review the reasons behind the rejection to prepare your new application properly. 

Is the Sri Lanka eVisa single or multiple-entry?

The Sri Lanka eVisa for USA nationals is a single and double entry visa. 

Do minors need their own Sri Lanka eVisa?

Yes, minors need their own Sri Lanka evisa to visit the country.

Is a printed copy of the eVisa required?

Yes, you need a printed copy of the Sri Lanka evisa to show at the Immigration counter.

How long does eVisa processing take?

The processing time for Sri Lanka eVisa for USA citizens is 48 hours.