Tea gardens, ancient cities, surf beaches, and leopards in the wild — Sri Lanka packs a continent’s worth of experiences into one island. And right now there is excellent news: the Sri Lanka ETA for Indians is free. Since 25 May 2026, Indians get a free 30-day tourist ETA with double entry — but approval before arrival is still mandatory. This guide explains the free-ETA rule, documents, the application steps, and travel tips.
Eligibility for Indians: Sri Lanka ETA
Indians are eligible for the Sri Lanka ETA — currently free. The verified facts:
- Since 25 May 2026, Indian nationals receive a free 30-day tourist ETA with double entry — valid for tourism, family visits, and short business trips.
- ETA approval before arrival is still mandatory — “free” does not mean “no application.” You must hold the approval when you board.
- Apply only on the official portal eta.gov.lk; ignore paid middlemen.
- If you need to stay beyond 30 days, you must apply for a paid visa extension — the free ETA cannot simply be overstayed.
- Per the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration circular — always re-check the current policy before travel, as schemes change.
Documents Required for the Sri Lanka ETA
The ETA application is light on paperwork, but keep these ready:
| Document | What to prepare |
|---|---|
| Indian passport | Valid ordinary passport, 6+ months validity beyond travel |
| Photograph | Recent digital passport-size photo, if the form asks for one |
| Travel details | Arrival date, flight details, and address of stay in Sri Lanka |
| Return ticket | Proof of onward/return travel within 30 days |
| Email address | For receiving the ETA approval notice |
| Sufficient funds | Ability to fund your stay; keep a card or statement handy |
Enter your passport number and name exactly as printed — the ETA is electronically linked to your passport.
How to Apply for the Sri Lanka ETA
- Visit the official portal eta.gov.lk and confirm it is the genuine government site.
- Select tourist ETA and start a new application.
- Fill in personal and passport details exactly as on your passport.
- Add travel details — arrival date, flight, and accommodation address.
- Submit the application — for Indians the tourist ETA is currently free; check the portal for the latest fee position.
- Receive approval by email — check current processing timelines on the portal; apply a few days before travel.
- Print the approval and carry it with your passport; keep a phone backup too.
Travel Tips for Indians Visiting Sri Lanka
- Best time to visit: the island has two monsoon zones — December to March suits the west and south coasts (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa); May to September suits the east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay).
- Money: the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Forex cards work in cities; carry cash for small towns and tuk-tuks.
- Must-see: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, Ella’s Nine Arch Bridge, Yala National Park for leopards, and Mirissa for whale watching.
- Getting around: trains (especially Kandy–Ella) are scenic and cheap — book reserved seats early; tuk-tuks for short hops with agreed fares.
- Food: Sri Lankan food will feel familiar — rice and curry, hoppers, kottu. Vegetarian options are everywhere.
- Beach safety: swim only at lifeguarded beaches; currents on the south coast can be strong.
- Connectivity: a local SIM at Colombo airport is cheap and makes everything easier.
- Respect customs: cover shoulders and knees at temples, remove shoes and hats, and never pose with your back to a Buddha statue.
More trip ideas: the Maldives 4-day tour package guide for another island escape, how to choose travel insurance before you fly, and our Schengen visa eligibility guide for Indians for Europe planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sri Lanka ETA free for Indians?
Yes — since 25 May 2026, Indians get a free 30-day tourist ETA with double entry. Confirm the current position on eta.gov.lk before travel.
Do I still need to apply if the ETA is free?
Yes. ETA approval before arrival is mandatory — free does not mean automatic. You must hold the approval when boarding.
How long can I stay in Sri Lanka on the free ETA?
30 days, with double entry. Longer stays need a paid visa extension.
Which is the official Sri Lanka ETA website?
eta.gov.lk — the official portal of the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Avoid paid third-party sites.
Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?
Yes, through a paid visa extension — apply before your ETA stay expires, not after.
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