As a United Kingdom citizen looking to explore this enchanting island nation, obtaining a Sri Lanka evisa is straightforward.
Here is everything you need to know about Sri Lanka eVisa for United Kingdom citizens: the application process, fees, validity, and more!
- Types of Sri Lanka eVisas for UK Citizens
- Sri Lanka eVisa Fees for United Kingdom Tourists
- Sri Lanka eVisa Eligibility Criteria for United Kingdom Citizens
- Sri Lanka eVisa Document Requirements for United Kingdom Tourists
- How to Apply For Sri Lanka eVisa for United Kingdom Citizens?
- Visa Processing Time and Next Steps
- Sri Lanka eVisa Rejection Reasons for United Kingdom Citizens
- Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka for United Kingdom Tourists
- FAQs
Types of Sri Lanka eVisas for UK Citizens
Sri Lanka offers several types of eVisas for United Kingdom tourists, catering to different travel purposes and durations:
| eVisa Name | Entry | Stay Duration | Validity | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA | Double | 30 Days | 180 Days | 1-2 Days |
Sri Lanka eVisa Fees for United Kingdom Tourists
Applying for a Sri Lanka visa for the United Kingdom is easy and affordable.
| eVisa Name | Fees (in Destination Currency) | Fees (in Source Currency) |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist ETA | USD 50 | GBP 40 |
An additional service fee of 3.5% is applicable for payments made via PayPal.
Sri Lanka eVisa Eligibility Criteria for United Kingdom Citizens
To be eligible for a Sri Lanka visa to the United Kingdom, you must meet the following criteria:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arriving in Sri Lanka.
- Purpose of Visit: Tourism and sightseeing, business meetings and conferences or transit through Sri Lanka
- Financial Stability: You must have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Sri Lanka.
- Return/Onward Journey: You must have a confirmed return ticket or onward journey ticket from Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka eVisa Document Requirements for United Kingdom Tourists
When applying for a Sri Lanka eVisa for the United Kingdom, keep the following documents ready:
- Passport: A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from arriving in Sri Lanka. The passport must have at least two blank pages for stamping.
- Digital Photograph:
- A recent color photograph with a white background.
- The photograph should be in JPEG format, with 35mm x 45mm dimensions.
- Travel Itinerary:
- Confirmed flight tickets (return or onward journey).
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or reservation confirmations).
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements or other financial documents proving sufficient funds for your stay.
How to Apply For Sri Lanka eVisa for United Kingdom Citizens?
Follow these simple steps to apply for a Sri Lanka visa for the United Kingdom:
Step 1: Visit the official Sri Lanka ETA website.
Step 2: Click on the “Apply” button and select your language preference.
Step 3: Choose the appropriate visa type (Tourist ETA, Business ETA, or Transit ETA).
Step 4: Fill out the online application form with accurate personal, passport, and travel details. Double-check all information before submitting.
Step 5: Upload the required documents:
- Digital photograph
- Passport bio-data page
- Proof of funds
- Travel itinerary
- Business documents (if applicable)
Step 6: Make the payment using a valid credit or debit card. Refer to the Sri Lanka ETA fees page for current rates.
Step 7: Apply and note down the application reference number.
Visa Processing Time and Next Steps
- Processing Time: Sri Lanka eVisa applications are usually processed within 1-2 working days.
- Application Status: Check your Sri Lanka eVisa application status online using your application reference number.
- ETA Approval: Once approved, your ETA will be sent to your registered email address.
- Print ETA: Take a printout of the ETA and carry it with you when traveling to Sri Lanka.
- Immigration Check: Present your ETA and passport at the Sri Lankan immigration counter upon arrival.
Sri Lanka eVisa Rejection Reasons for United Kingdom Citizens
A Sri Lanka visa application may be rejected due to the following reasons:
- Incomplete or inaccurate information in the application form.
- Unclear or inappropriate digital photograph.
- Insufficient funds to cover the stay in Sri Lanka.
- Passport validity is less than 6 months from the date of arrival.
- Failure to provide required documents.
Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka for United Kingdom Tourists
Climate
Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C in the coastal areas and 18°C to 26°C in the hill country. The best time to visit depends on your itinerary:
- December to March: Ideal for exploring the west and south coasts and the hill country.
- April to September: Perfect for visiting the East Coast and the Cultural Triangle.
Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Don’t forget a light jacket for cooler evenings in the hill country.
Flight
Several airlines offer direct flights from the United Kingdom to Sri Lanka, including Sri Lankan Airlines, British Airways, and TUI Airways.
The average flight from London to Colombo is 10 hours and 30 minutes. Expect to pay between £500 to £800 (LKR 200,000 to LKR 320,000) for a round-trip ticket, depending on the season and airline.
Visa Requirements
As a United Kingdom citizen, you can easily apply for a Sri Lanka visa online. The process is quick, with most applications processed within 1-2 working days. The Sri Lanka eVisa fee for United Kingdom citizens is USD 50.
Currency Exchange and Affordability
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is the official currency. As of 2023, the exchange rate is approximately 1 GBP = 400 LKR.
Sri Lanka is an affordable destination compared to other popular tourist spots in the region. A budget of £50 to £100 (LKR 20,000 to LKR 40,000) per day can cover accommodation, meals, and local transportation for a comfortable stay.
Tourism Trends and Popularity
Sri Lanka has seen a steady increase in tourist arrivals from the United Kingdom, with over 254,000 British tourists visiting the island in 2019. The country’s diverse attractions, from ancient ruins to pristine beaches, appeal to many travelers.
The island’s rich history and cultural heritage, influenced by Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonizers, create a unique blend that fascinates visitors.
Language Support
English is widely spoken in Sri Lanka, especially in tourist areas. Most road signs, restaurant menus, and public notices are in English, making navigation easy for United Kingdom tourists.
However, learning a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil, the two primary local languages, can help you connect with the friendly locals.
Religious and Cultural Ties
Sri Lanka is a multi-religious country, with Buddhism being the predominant faith, followed by Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.
The island is home to numerous ancient Buddhist temples, such as the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and the Dambulla Cave Temple.
The country also celebrates various festivals, including the Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April, Vesak (Buddha’s birthday) in May, and the Kandy Esala Perahera in July/August.
FAQs
1. What is a United Kingdom tourist eVisa and who can apply?
A United Kingdom tourist eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows United Kingdom citizens to enter Sri Lanka for tourism purposes. All United Kingdom passport holders who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa online.
2. What documents are needed for a United Kingdom eVisa?
To apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa, United Kingdom citizens need to submit a valid passport copy, a recent passport-size photograph, a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds.
3. How long is the Sri Lanka eVisa valid for United Kingdom citizens?
Tourist ETA single and double entry visas are valid for 180 days from the date of issue, while the Tourist eVisa Multiple Entry is valid for 1 year.
4. How much does a Sri Lanka eVisa cost?
The cost of a Sri Lanka eVisa for United Kingdom citizens ranges from USD 35 to USD 100 (GBP 28 to GBP 80), depending on the visa type.
5. Can I apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival?
No, United Kingdom citizens cannot apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival. You must apply online and obtain your eVisa before traveling to Sri Lanka.
6. Can I extend my stay in Sri Lanka beyond the eVisa validity?
If you want to stay in Sri Lanka beyond your eVisa validity, you’ll need to apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo before your eVisa expires.
7. What should I do if my Sri Lanka eVisa application is rejected?
If your Sri Lanka eVisa application is rejected, check the reason for rejection and ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria. You may need to provide additional documents or information before reapplying.
8. Do I need to print out my Sri Lanka eVisa?
Yes, you must print out a copy of your approved Sri Lanka eVisa and carry it with you when traveling to Sri Lanka.
9. How long does it take to process a Sri Lanka eVisa application?
The processing time for a Sri Lanka eVisa for United Kingdomcitizens is usually between 1-5 working days.
