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Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

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Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

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Sri Lanka offers travellers the opportunity to experience festivities, wildlife, serene nature and delicacies all in one place, creating the perfect travel experience.

It is mandatory to have a visa to travel to Sri Lanka. Depending on the purpose of your visit, there are various visas of Sri Lanka for Indians. Thus, it is important to understand the categories and sort your travel documents before visiting the country.

If travelling to Sri Lanka is on your bucket list, this blog will tell you everything you need to know about Sri Lanka visas for Indians. To make the most of your trip, get Reliance travel insurance for Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Visa Requirements for​ Indian Citizens

Yes, you need a Sri Lanka visa for Indians to enter the country.​​

The process is straightforward, and there are multiple options available. You can apply for a Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indians as an e-Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which allows for short-term visits.

The ETA can be easily obtained online for purposes like tourism, business or transit and is valid for a stay of up to 30 days, extendable up to 6 months, depending on the purpose.

Indian travellers must apply for the ETA before travelling to Sri Lanka. However, some categories of Indian travellers, such as diplomats or government officials, may qualify for visa exemptions under special agreements between India and Sri Lanka.

Is There a Sri Lanka Visa on Arr​​ival for Indians?

Currently, there is no facility for on-arrival visa in Sri Lanka for Indians. However, starting on 1 October 2024, the Sri Lankan government will grant 30-day visa-free entry to Indians for a period of six months to boost the country's tourism.

Disclaimer: Please note the status of the visa-free regime is subject to change. To know the latest updates about the India Sri Lanka visa on arrival or visa-free regime, you will need to confirm with either the Sri Lankan Embassy in India or visit the official ETA website before applying.

Types of Sri Lanka Visas for I​ndian Citizens

Types of Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

Description

Sri Lanka Visa Duration for Indian Citizens

Allowed Activities

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa for Indian

For Indian citizens visiting Sri Lanka for tourism purposes.

Up to 30 days (extendable)

Tourism, sightseeing and visiting friends/relatives.

No work or business activities allowed

Business Visa

For Indians travelling for business meetings or investment purposes.

Up to 30 days (extendable)

Attending business meetings, conferences and short-term professional engagements.

No long-term employment allowed

Residence Visa (Student)

For students accepted into recognised educational institutions.

Duration of study program

Attending academic courses or research programs at approved Sri Lankan institutions

Transit Visa

For short layovers in Sri Lanka before travelling to another destination

Up to 2 days

Transit through Sri Lanka Sea/Airports and to enter the country

Residence Visa

For long-term stay, applicable to employees, investors or family reunification

Varies based on sub-type

Engaging only in the specific visa sub-type allows you to

Why is Travel Insurance for Sri ​​Lanka Visa for Indian Citizens Important?

Coverage for Medical Emergencies

Trip Cancellations

Coverage for Dental Treatment

Our travel insurance for Sri Lanka is essential to protect against unexpected medical emergencies. Sri Lankan healthcare is almost like India. So, having insurance ensures access to quality care without financial strain. We offer maximum coverage of up to USD 500,000 for medical expenses.

Unforeseen circumstances like flight delays, cancellations or sudden illness can lead to major disruptions. Our Sri Lanka visa insurance for Indians can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses of up to USD 600, safeguarding your journey.

The Reliance Sri Lanka Travel Insurance offers dental treatment in case of accidental damages of up to USD 500. It ensures that you receive overall protection and comprehensive coverage.

Lost Baggage

Personal Liability Cover

Cashless Hospitalisation

Losing your baggage can cause major inconveniences during your trip. Therefore, our travel insurance for Sri Lanka visa policy provides compensation for lost, delayed or damaged luggage. To help you recover from the loss, we offer up to USD 1,500 in case of total loss and USD 100 in case of delay.

Incurring expenses due to personal liabilities can be tricky to manage, especially when in a foreign land. Thus, to help you recover from such liabilities arising out of injury or damage to a third-party person or property, we offer coverage of up to USD 250,000.

This is one of the most important reasons why you need travel insurance for visas of Sri Lanka for Indians. With our travel insurance for Sri Lanka, you can benefit from cashless treatments without worrying about spending from your pockets.

Also Read:Make your Wrongs Right with Travel Insurance

Features of Sri Lanka Visa for In​dians

Application Process

Indian citizens can apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) through the Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration website. The process is quick and can be done before travelling.

Sri Lanka Visa Requirements for Indians (For Entry)

A valid passport (with at least six months of validity), confirmed return tickets and proof of sufficient funds for your stay are mandatory for all types of Indian visa for Sri Lanka.

Number of Entries

Depending on the visa type, single-entry or multiple-entry visas are available. For short-term visitors, such as the Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indians, the ETA generally allows for a double-entry visa valid for 30 days.

Visa Extensions

Most Sri Lanka visas for Indians are extendable if you apply before your current visa expires. Extensions are subject to approval by the Department of Immigration.

Special Conditions

In certain cases, diplomatic or official visa holders may qualify for exemptions from standard visa requirements. Tourists should also follow local laws and be mindful of visa overstay rules to avoid penalties.

Who Needs a Sri Lanka Visa in​ India?

Tourists:

Business Travellers:

Family Members:

Those visiting Sri Lanka for leisure, sightseeing and vacations need a tourist visa for Sri Lanka for Indians.

Indian professionals travelling for business purposes, such as to attend a meeting, business conferences or engagement must apply for a business visa of Sri Lanka for Indians.

Individuals visiting family or residing long-term will require the appropriate visa based on the purpose of their visit.

Students:

Transit Passengers:

Students enrolling in long-term academic programs must apply for a student visa.

Travellers with layovers in Sri Lanka need a transit visa for Indians for Sri Lanka if their stay exceeds 48 hours.

Sri Lanka Visa for Indians: Fact​​ors You Must Know When Applying for a Visa

Processing Time

Typically, the processing time for a Sri Lanka visa for Indians is between 24 to 72 hours for an eVisa. For offline applications, it may take 5-7 working days. Urgent processing is also available for an additional fee.

Required Documents

The essential documents for a Sri Lanka visa include your passport (with at least 6 months validity), recently taken passport-sized photographs, flight bookings, hotel reservations and proof of finances, such as bank statements.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must have a valid Indian passport and travel itinerary, along with clear plans for accommodation and return travel. Applicants must also comply with Sri Lanka’s entry requirements and not hold a criminal record.

Financial Proof

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds for your trip. These must also be shown through bank statements or a letter from your employer. This proof is necessary to ensure you can cover your travel expenses during your stay in Sri Lanka.

Visa Type

Depending on your purpose of visit — tourism, business or education — the type of visa of Sri Lanka for Indians will differ. Ensure you apply for the correct visa category to avoid rejection.

Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka

While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Sri Lanka Visa Eligibility for Ind​ian Citizens

The specific Sri Lanka visa eligibility for Indians for different types of visas include:

Tourist Sri Lanka Visa to Indians

  • Individuals travelling for leisure, holiday or short-term personal visits.
  • Those attending cultural events or family functions.

Business Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens to Sri Lanka

  • Professionals whose services are needed for projects approved by the Sri Lankan government.
  • Expatriate personnel employed in Board of Investment (BOI) projects, including their dependents.
  • Business people attending conferences, workshops or business negotiations.

Work Visa

  • Individuals employed in Sri Lanka on professional or project-based work contracts.
  • Specialised workers engaged in government-endorsed projects or BOI enterprises.

Student Visa

  • International students accepted by Sri Lankan educational institutions.
  • Researchers or academics attending recognised study programs.

Transit Visa

  • Individuals with layovers or transiting through Sri Lanka for a short period before travelling onward to their final destination.

How to Apply for a Sri Lanka Visa​​​ for Indian Citizens?

Online ETA/Sri Lanka Visa Application for Indians

  1. Visit the official ETAonline application website.
  2. Review the instructions and terms of the application process thoroughly before proceeding. Then, click on “I Agree” to proceed.
  3. Depending on your visa type, select the appropriate option from the left-hand panel.
  4. Fill out the application form accurately.
  5. Review the information entered and verify it for accuracy before submitting the form.
  6. Complete the online payment process. Note that the fees paid are non-transferable and non-refundable.
  7. Receive the ETA confirmation and print it for future reference.

Sri Lanka Visa Procedure for Indians – Submitting ETA/ Sri Lanka Visa Application for Indians at Port of Entry in Sri Lanka

Those who do not have an ETA approval letter before travelling to Sri Lanka can follow these steps for getting Sri Lanka visa for Indians:

  1. Upon arrival at the BIA, report to the ETA issuing counter and fill in the ETA application form.
  2. Pay the appropriate ETA processing fee only in US$.

Note that only electronic payment cards (credit card/e-commerce enabled debit cards) and cash in USD are accepted.

  1. If your application is approved, the ETA will be issued for up to 30 days.
  2. Receive your ETA approval notice or referral notice.
  3. If you receive the referral notice, then you will be refused entry and asked to return to your original destination.
  4. Once you have received your ETA, please proceed to the Immigration Counter and submit your passport.

Sri Lanka Visa Fees for ​​Indians

Visa Type

Sri Lanka High Commission in New Delhi Fees

(in INR)

Visa Charges for Sri Lanka from India - Online (USD)

Visa Processing Time for Indians for Sri Lanka - On-Arrival (USD)

Sri Lanka Visit Visa for Indian (with Single/Double entry up to 30 days)

1300

20

25

Sri Lanka Visitor Visa for Indians (with Single Entry up to 90 days)

1495

Not Available

Not Available

Tourist Visa (with Double entry up to 90 days)

1690

Not Available

Not Available

Business Visa (with Single/Double/ Multiple entry up to 30 days)

1950

30

40

Business (with multiple entry up to 90 days)

2535

Not Available

Not Available

Transit Visa (Single Entry up to 2 days)

Free

Free

Free

Children of any nationality under 12 years of age

Free

Free

Free

Sri Lanka Visa Price for Indians — For Resident Visa:

Types of Applicants

Visa Fees (in USD)

For:

● Employees,

● Students,

● Investors,

● People seeking medical treatment,

● Non-government institution representatives,

● Their spouses and children

200.00

Indian citizens recognised under the the Indo- Ceylon Agreement (Implementation)

Act of 1967

100.00

For a non-Sri Lankan dependent of a Sri

Lankan citizen (including widows who did not remarry)

100

Previous citizens of Sri Lanka

100.00

*Note that the Sri Lanka visa cost for Indian citizens is subject to change based on policy updates. Ensure to verify at the official immigration website.

Starting from October 1, 2024 the Sri Lanka government has issued a free visa scheme for a stay of up to 30 days in Sri Lanka for many countries, including India. This scheme is valid for six months to boost tourism. Find more information on the official website.

Documents Required for Sri ​​Lanka Visa for Indians

Type of Visa Sri Lanka For Indians

Sri Lanka Visa Documents for Indian Citizens

Tourist Visa

● Return air ticket.

● Address and telephone number of the place of accommodation.

● The application along with a photograph of the applicant.

● Valid Passport

Business Visa

● Invitation/ Request letter from relevant institutions

Transit Visa

● Proof of air ticket/sea passage

Residence Visa

● A copy of the Bio Data Page of the applicant’s passport

● Health Protection plan (can get through the www.health.gov.lk/IHU)

● Passport(s)

● Bank Encashment receipts

● A copy of the Bio Data Page of the applicant’s passport

● Other documents specific to your visa sub-type.

Find more information about each visa sub-type details here.

Common Visa For Indians For Sri Lanka Documents:

  • Passport with at least six months' validity from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • Filled visa application form, available online for e-visa or offline at the consulate.
  • Two recent colour passport-size photographs, 35x45mm, with a white background.
  • Latest six-month bank statement showing sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.
  • Confirmed return or onward flight tickets.
  • Hotel bookings or a letter from a host if staying with family or friends.

Covid-19 Guidelines for Sri Lanka ​Visa for Indians

As of 2024, the Sri Lanka visa COVID rules for Indian citizens have been relaxed, but there are still important guidelines for travellers:

Vaccination Certificates

Travellers are not required to undergo quarantine or present a negative PCR test as per the updated Sri Lanka Visa for Indians COVID rules. Proof of vaccination is also no longer mandatory upon arrival.

Unvaccinated Travellers

While the vaccination certificates are no longer mandatory, we still recommend that unvaccinated travellers take extra precautions. Follow general safety guidelines, such as wearing masks in crowded areas, sanitising your hands and monitoring your health.

Health Declaration

Travellers must fill out a health declaration form before departure, which includes vaccination and health status with the Sri Lanka to India visa application.

Travel Insurance

Medical emergencies are unprecedented events, and with the COVID-19 pandemic the need for insurance has been more profound. To protect yourself and your loved ones from unexpected medical expenses and securing adequate treatment coverage, invest in our travel insurance for Sri Lanka.

Processing Time for Sri Lanka Visa f​or Indians

The Sri Lanka visa processing time for Indians varies depending on the type of visa you apply for. If you are applying for a short visa for tourism purposes, it usually takes around 3 days to receive your ETA. However, other visa types may take longer, at least 7 working days.

How to Track Sri Lanka Visa for In​dians?

Here are the easy steps for tracking Sri Lanka visa applications from India online.

  1. Go to the official ETA application websiteand select your preferred language.
  2. Click on the “Check Status” tab from the main menu on the home page.
  3. You can either enter the confirmation code or enter your passport number and select your nationality.
  4. Proceed by clicking on “Check Status”.
  5. You will be displayed with the Sri Lanka visa status for Indian citizens.

*Note that you cannot enter the country without a valid ETA Approval Notice. Thus, ensure that you receive it before entering the country.

Common Reasons for Sri Lanka Visa ​​Rejections for Indians and How to Avoid Them

Incomplete Applications

Failing to fill out the visa application properly or leaving sections blank is one of the most common visa related Sri Lanka rejection reasons for Indian citizens. Ensure every required field is completed and double-check for accuracy.

Incorrect Documentation

Providing wrong or outdated documents can lead to Sri Lanka visa rejection for Indians. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended travel date and all required documents are in order (e.g., financial proof, flight tickets).

Insufficient Financial Proof

Visa applications often get rejected if you cannot show that you have enough funds to support yourself throughout your stay. Check the minimum financial requirements for each visa type and prepare according to your visa requirements.

Mismatched Travel Itinerary

Ensure that your travel itinerary matches the details in your application. No discrepancies between the flight dates and visa duration are important for avoiding Sri Lanka visa rejections for Indians.

Previous Visa Violations

Any history of overstaying or violations on a previous visit to Sri Lanka can affect your application. Avoid Sri Lanka visa for Indians violations to ensure smooth future applications.

Thus, to avoid facing rejections, ensure that you submit a complete, accurate application. Also, ensure that you verify all documentation to avoid mistakes and also invest in travel insurance for Sri Lanka for a stress-free trip.

What is the Sri Lanka Visa Valid​ity for Indians?

Visa Type

Validity of Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

Sri Lanka Visit Visa for Indians

30 days or 90 days

Business Visa

30 or 90 days

Transit Visa

48 hours

Residence Visa

1 year/2 years

How to Renew Sri Lanka Visas fo​r Indians?

To apply for visa extension or a Sri Lanka renewal for Indian citizens, follow these steps:

Short Visit Visa Extensions

  1. To extend/renew your non-resident visa (tourist, business or free visa), visit the official immigration website.
  2. Register on the website and create your account.
  3. Next, enter your passport number and nationality. Click on “Apply”.
  4. Upload the required documents, such as a photograph, return air ticket, accommodation details and financial documents.
  5. Verify the details and submit your application.
  6. Once the extension is approved, you will receive the updates on your registered email address.

Alternatively, for the visa renewal process for Indian citizens in Sri Lanka, you can submit the extension application offline to the head office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Battaramulla. Fill out the extension application form and attach the supporting documents.

For Resident Visa

You must submit the extension application form to the Head office of the Department of Immigration & Emigration, Colombo.

Things to Know About Sri Lanka ​​for Indian Visitors

  • Cultural Etiquette: Sri Lankans value politeness and respect for their traditions. Always greet locals with a smile and remove shoes before entering homes or temples.
  • Food: Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its spicy curries, rice dishes and seafood. Don't miss out on trying traditional dishes like kottu roti and hoppers.
  • Transportation: Tuk-tuks are a popular way to get around the cities, while buses and trains offer affordable options for long-distance travel. One of the best Sri Lanka travel tips for Indians is to always agree on a fare before hopping into a tuk-tuk.
  • Currency Exchange: The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Major cities have currency exchange counters, and credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. However, our Sri Lanka visitor tip for Indians is to carry cash for rural regions.
  • Wildlife: Sri Lanka is rich in biodiversity, with elephants, leopards and tropical birds. Consider such places to see in Sri Lanka, like the national parks, for a wildlife experience.
  • Dress Code: Modesty is key in religious sites — cover your shoulders and legs when visiting temples so you don’t miss out on one of the prime Sri Lanka sites to see during your trip.

Also Read:Must Go Through Checklist Before Your Overseas Tour

Best Places to Visit in Sri L​​anka

Places to Go in Sri Lanka

Description of Places to Explore in Sri Lanka

Season

Best Time to Visit

Sigiriya Rock

Ancient rock fortress with stunning views and historical ruins.

Dry season

December to April

Ella

A scenic hill town known for hiking and tea plantations.

Monsoon or dry

January to March

Galle Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colonial-era architecture.

Year-round

November to March

Yala National Park

A top spot for wildlife enthusiasts, home to leopards and elephants.

Dry season

February to July

Nuwara Eliya

A hill station with cool weather and lush tea gardens.

Year-round

February to May

Mirissa Beach

A serene beach for whale watching and relaxing.

Dry season

November to April

Frequently Asked Questi​ons

  • How to claim Reliance General Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka?
    • Step 1 - Initiate your by calling our Claim Helpline Numbers within 24 hours of the incident's occurrence.
    • Step 2 - Collect all the claim-related documents.
    • Step 3 - Fill and submit the claim form along with the supporting documents to us at our office address.
    • Step 4 - Wait for the status update. Your claim will be settled based on the claim type.
  • Is it mandatory for a visa of Sri Lanka with an Indian passport of 6 months validity?

    Yes, your passport must have at least 6 months of validity from the date of your intended entry into Sri Lanka to apply for a visa. This is a standard requirement for tourist, business and other types of visas.

  • If I am travelling to study further, should I apply for a Sri Lanka visitor visa for Indians?

    No, for higher education, you need to apply for a Sri Lanka residence visa for students and not a visitor visa. This visa will allow you to volunteer and study in Sri Lankan universities.

  • What are the Sri Lanka visa fees for Indians?

    Visa fees for Indians depend on the type of visa. For example, a short-term single-entry tourist visa costs around $20-$50, while a multiple-entry business visa can cost more. You can check the official Sri Lankan immigration website for updated fees.

  • Can I get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival for Indians if my passport is expiring?

    No, to qualify for a visa on arrival, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your travel date. If your passport is expiring soon, it is advised to renew it before applying.

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