Sri Lanka Visa For Indians – E-Visa Requirements, Eligibility & How To Apply

A visit to Sri Lanka is filled with promise, and you can start that journey by securing a Sri Lanka visa for Indians. If you’re excited to explore the island’s rich culture and beautiful sights, knowing everything you need for a smooth visa application is essential. 

In this guide, we will discuss the necessary steps and requirements so you can be well-prepared for your journey to this beautiful country.

Do Indians Need a Sri Lanka Visa? 

Yes, Indian passport holders must have a valid Sri Lanka visa to enter the island. Depending on your travel purpose, Indians can choose from:

• Visa-Free Travel for Indians: Indian citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Sri Lanka from October 1, 2024, until April 2025, for stays up to 30 days with a valid passport. After this period, a mandatory but free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required, which can be obtained online and extended beyond the initial 30-day validity if needed.
• Visa on Arrival: While there is no traditional visa on arrival for Indians without prior ETA approval, it is possible to obtain a visa at the airport if you have secured an ETA beforehand.

Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

Visa Type	Entry Type	Stay Duration	Validity	Fees (USD/INR)
Tourist Visa	Double Entry	30 days	30 days (can be extended up to 6 months)	$20/ ₹1,711
Tourist Visa	Single/Double Entry	90 days	90 days (can be extended up to 6 months)	$20/ ₹1,711
Transit Visa	Single Entry	Up to 48 hours	Up to 48 hours	Free

Sri Lanka Visa Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens

Let us have a look at the eligibility criteria that Indian travelers must meet when applying for a Sri Lanka tourist visa:

• You must hold a valid Indian passport with at least six months’ validity from your intended date of entry in Sri Lanka.
• Your passport should have a minimum of two blank pages to meet the Sri Lanka visa requirements for Indians.
• A recent passport-sized photograph with a plain white background is required as part of the Sri Lanka visa documents for Indians.
• You need to provide a confirmed return or onward flight ticket to support your travel plans.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host, is mandatory.
• Bank statements for the last three months are necessary to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds for your stay.
• Applicants must have no history of immigration violations or criminal records to satisfy the Sri Lanka visa eligibility for Indians.
• While a formal medical certificate is not typically required for a tourist visa, you should be in good health.
• Minors can apply with appropriate parental consent and the necessary supporting documents.
• All information provided must be accurate and in line with the Sri Lanka visa application process India guidelines to ensure smooth approval.

Sri Lanka Visa Fees for Indians 

Type of Visa	Entry Type	Visa Duration	Validity	Govt Visa Fees (USD/INR)	OneVasco Service Fees (USD/INR)
Tourist Visa	Double Entry	30 days	30 days	$20/₹1,711	$15/INR 1,281
Tourist Visa	Single/Double Entry	90 days	90 days	$20/₹1,711	$15/INR 1,281
Transit Visa	Single Entry	Up to 48 hours	Up to 48 hours	Free	NA

The standard fee for SAARC nationals was US$20 via the official ETA portal, which converts to approximately INR 1,711 and LKR 5,867.

Please note that, from October 1, 2024, Indian travelers can enjoy a free 30‑day tourist visa under a pilot program designed to boost tourism. The program, which runs until April 2025, waives all fees, including embassy, application/service, GST, and miscellaneous charges. 

Children traveling to Sri Lanka can get a child tourist visa free of charge, with no embassy fees, application costs, or additional charges. Since the visa is valid for 30 days, families can plan their trip without worrying about extra expenses for young travelers.

Sri Lanka Visa Requirements & Documents for Indians 

Getting ready for your Sri Lankan adventure begins with understanding the Sri Lanka visa requirements for Indians.

Visa

• Visa Application Form: You must fill out the visa application form completely and attach your valid passport, recent photo, flight tickets, and hotel bookings to meet Sri Lanka’s document requirements.
• Travel Insurance Certificate: While not strictly required, having travel insurance shows you’re prepared for emergencies and strengthens your Sri Lanka visa application.
• Medical Certificate: You usually don’t need a medical certificate for a Sri Lanka tourist visa unless you have health issues or the consulate asks for extra information.

Personal Documents

• Original Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after you plan to enter Sri Lanka and must have empty stamp pages.
• Passport Scanned Copy: You must submit a clear scan of your passport’s data page to help officials check your information electronically.
• Original Previous Passport: Your old passport with travel stamps can help support your application by showing your travel history.
• 2 Photographs: You must provide two photos, with at least one recent passport-sized picture that clearly shows your face against a plain background.
• Sri Lanka Photo Requirements for Indians: The photo must be 35×45 mm with a white background and taken recently to meet Sri Lanka’s visa requirements.
• Residence Proof: You need a valid document like a utility bill or bank statement to confirm your current address in India.

Finance

• Proof of Funds (Bank Statements [3-6 months]): You need to show bank statements from the last three to six months to prove you have enough money to pay for your trip to Sri Lanka.
• Proof of Employment (Employment Letter or Business Registration): A letter from your job or business document helps show officials that you have steady work and income, strengthening your visa application.

Travel

• Proof of Hotel Reservation: Show evidence that you’ve booked a hotel or other place to stay during your visit to Sri Lanka.
• Flight Tickets: You must include a copy of your travel plan with all your flight details to Sri Lanka.
• Return Flight Tickets: You must also show that you’ve booked a flight to leave Sri Lanka, which helps meet entry rules.
• Invitation Letter (If Staying with Friends or Family): If you’re staying with people you know in Sri Lanka, you should include a letter from them with their address and phone number.

Sri Lanka Visa Process for Indians

1. Begin by visiting the official Sri Lanka ETA website, the leading portal to apply for a Sri Lanka visa for Indian travelers.



2. Complete the online visa application form with accurate personal and travel details as specified in the Sri Lanka visa requirements for Indians.



3. Gather and upload all required documents, including your valid passport, flight tickets, etc. to meet the Sri Lanka visa application process.



4. Pay the applicable visa fee (or check if any fee waivers are available) and note that the Sri Lanka visa processing time for Indians usually takes 1 to 3 working days.
5. Upon approval, you will receive an electronic travel authorization via email, which confirms the validity of the Sri Lanka visa for Indians for your intended stay.
6. Prepare for any brief checks at the border by reviewing common Sri Lanka visa interview questions for Indians and keeping a printed copy of your approval along with all supporting documents.
7. Finally, ensure you have all documents organized before your journey and enjoy a smooth travel experience.

Must Read: Sri Lanka Visa Appeal Process for Indians

Sri Lanka Visa Processing Time for Indians

Time is a valuable factor to consider when planning your trip to Sri Lanka. Here’s how long you’ll wait for your Sri Lanka visa:

Type of Visa	Entry Type	Processing Time
Tourist Visa	Single Entry/Double Entry	3-5 working days
Transit Visa	Single Entry	2-4 working days

Sri Lanka Stay Duration, Validity, and Extension for Indians

If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka for a trip, find out how long Indians can stay in Sri Lanka, when visas expire, and what extension options are available to travelers.

Type of Visa	Stay Duration	Validity Period
Tourist Visa (Double Entry)	30 days	30 days
Tourist Visa (Single/Double Entry)	Up to 90 days	90 days
Transit Visa (Single Entry)	Up to 48 hours	Valid for the duration of transit (typically up to 48 hours)

Top Mistakes While Applying for a Sri Lanka Visa

Remember to avoid the common mistakes mentioned below while planning a trip to Sri Lanka, and your journey will be smooth and hassle-free. 

1. Not reviewing the latest Sri Lanka visa requirements for Indians often leads to missing critical documents like a valid passport with six months’ validity or the necessary financial proof.
2. Submitting an incomplete or inaccurately filled application disrupts the Sri Lanka visa application process in India and can delay approval.
3. Poor-quality or outdated photographs that do not meet the standard specifications can cause your Sri Lanka visa documents for Indians to be rejected.
4. Failing to provide clear bank statements or adequate proof of funds may result in not meeting the financial criteria required for a Sri Lanka visa for Indian travelers.
5. Omitting confirmed flight tickets and hotel reservations weakens your travel itinerary, which is essential for satisfying the entry conditions.

Must Read: Sri Lanka Rejection Reasons

Sri Lanka Visa Consulates/Embassy in India

High Commission for the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

• City: New Delhi
• Address: 27, Kautilya Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, Delhi 110021
• Google Maps: High Commission Sri Lanka New Delhi
• Phone: 01123010201
• Email Id: [email protected]
• Website: www.slhcindia.org

Consulate General for the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Mumbai

• City: Mumbai
• Address: Mulla House, 34, Homi Modi St, Opposite Central Bank Head Office, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
• Google Maps: Sri Lanka Consulate Mumbai
• Phone: 02222045861
• Email Id: [email protected]
• Website: www.slhcindia.org

Consulate General of Sri Lanka

• City: Chennai
• Address: 56, Sterling Rd, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600034
• Google Maps: Sri Lanka Consulate Chennai
• Phone: 04428241896
• Email Id: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.sldhcchennai.org/

Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka

Climate & Top Season

Sri Lanka’s warm tropical climate appeals to Indian travelers. Average temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C throughout the year. 

The best weather is typically experienced from December to April, when rainfall averages less than 50 mm per month and humidity levels are around 70–80%. 

Culture

The island is rich in heritage, blending ancient Buddhist traditions with colonial influences. Visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant festivals, traditional dance, and centuries-old customs that reveal Sri Lanka’s soul. 

Attractions

Sri Lanka is home to an array of iconic landmarks, from the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the serene Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy. These historical sites, along with lush national parks and beaches, offer diverse attractions for every traveler. 

Activities

For adventure and leisure alike, the island offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests. Whether it’s wildlife safaris in Yala National Park, exploring verdant tea plantations, or simply unwinding on golden sands at Bentota or Mirissa, there is something for everyone. 

Budget Breakdown

Sri Lanka’s affordability is a standout feature, making it a top choice for Indian travelers. Budget accommodation can start from around LKR 2,000 per night (approximately INR 1,000), while mid-range hotels typically cost about LKR 8,000 (roughly INR 4,000) per night. 

Meals at local eateries range from LKR 500 to LKR 1,000 (around INR 250 to INR 500), and regional transport, including tuk-tuks and buses, can cost as little as LKR 50 (about INR 25) per ride. 

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FAQs

Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka?

Indians need a visa to visit Sri Lanka as the visa-free period ended after March 31, 2025. Indian travelers must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization, with options including a Single Entry Tourist Visa or Double Entry Tourist Visa for those planning multiple entries during their stay.

Is there a Visa on Arrival for Indians in Sri Lanka?

No, Indian nationals are not eligible for a visa on arrival and must apply in advance.

Is a Sri Lanka visa easy to get for Indians?

It is relatively straightforward if you meet the Sri Lanka visa requirements for Indians and submit all the necessary documents accurately.

What are the Sri Lanka visa fees for Indians?

Typically, the fees are around USD 20 (or its equivalent in local currency), though special promotions or pilot programmes may offer fee waivers.

What is the eligibility for a Sri Lanka visa for Indians?

Eligibility criteria include a valid Indian passport with at least six months’ validity, enough financial proof, and confirmed travel and accommodation proof.

What are the general requirements for a Sri Lanka visa for Indians?

You need a valid passport, recent photographs, confirmed flight tickets, proof of accommodation, bank statements, and other supporting documents as outlined in the Sri Lanka visa documents for Indians.

Are children eligible to apply for a Sri Lanka visa?

Yes, children can apply for a Sri Lanka visa, and in many cases, the visa fee for minors is waived.

How much bank balance is required for a Sri Lanka tourist visa?

There is no fixed amount; however, you must show sufficient funds to cover your stay, typically evidenced by bank statements for the last three to six months.

How long does a Sri Lanka tourist visa take to process?

Processing usually takes between 1 and 3 working days through the online ETA system, assuming all documents are in order.

What’s the process for obtaining a Sri Lanka visa for Indians?

The process involves completing an online application via the official ETA portal, uploading required documents, paying the applicable fee, and receiving an electronic visa approval via 

Email.

What documents are needed for a Sri Lanka visa for Indians?

Essential documents include your original passport, a scanned copy of the passport, two recent passport-sized photographs, bank statements, flight and hotel booking confirmations, and, if applicable, an invitation letter.