Sri Lanka, officially known as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is a beautiful island nation located in the Indian Ocean. Steeped in history and culture, Sri Lanka holds immense appeal for Indian travelers. This comprehensive guide provides insights into the Sri Lanka visa process for Indians, allowing you to explore the wonders of this island nation to the south of India.

Understanding Sri Lanka Visa: A Sri Lanka visa is issued to foreign individuals who wish to travel to Sri Lanka for various purposes. The type of visa issued depends on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, visiting family and friends, employment, or education. Each type of visa comes with its own duration of stay, validity, and number of entries permitted. It’s important to note that possessing a visa does not guarantee entry; entry depends on approval by border control or immigration officers.

How to Obtain a Sri Lanka Visa from India: There are several ways to obtain a Sri Lanka visa from India, but eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of visa. Here are the different processes for obtaining a Sri Lanka visa online:

1. Sri Lanka Visa Online:

• Apply online through the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) application form.
• Submit the form and pay the required fee.
• Receive an ETA approval notice.
• Print the notice and travel to Sri Lanka.
• Present required documents at the Immigration Counter upon arrival.

2. Through a Visa Agency:

• Provide required information and documents to a visa agency.
• Let the agency handle the application process.
• Receive an acknowledgment notice.
• Print the notice and travel to Sri Lanka.
• Present required documents at the Immigration Counter upon arrival.

3. Sri Lanka Overseas Mission:

• Submit your passport and details to the Sri Lanka Mission in India.
• Let the mission handle the ETA application process.
• After approval, both the mission and you will receive an acknowledgment notice.
• Print the notice and carry it when traveling to Sri Lanka.
• Collect your passport from the mission after notice receipt.
• Present required documents at the Immigration Counter upon arrival.

4. At the Head Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration:

• Host inviting the Indian national to Sri Lanka can fill out the offline visa application form.
• Attach recent photographs and collect all required documents.
• Submit the signed application form and documents to the visa officer.
• Pay the necessary fee to the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
• Collect your passport after the stamping process.

For all application types, ensure that you provide accurate information matching your passport and other travel documents to avoid visa rejection. Employing professional visa services can help minimize the risk of rejection.

Types of Sri Lanka Visa: Sri Lanka offers various visa types based on the purpose of your visit, duration of stay, and validity. The common types of visas for Indians visiting Sri Lanka include:

1. Sri Lanka Tourist Visa: For leisure travelers interested in sightseeing and leisure activities in Sri Lanka.

2. Sri Lanka Business Visa: For businesspeople conducting business activities in Sri Lanka.

3. Sri Lanka Visit Visa: For individuals visiting Sri Lanka to meet family and friends or engage in tourism and leisure activities.

4. Sri Lanka Work Visa: For those traveling to Sri Lanka for employment, whether short-term contracts or long-term employment.

Sri Lanka Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens: The required documents for obtaining a Sri Lanka visa from India vary depending on the visa process. Here are the general requirements:

For ETA:

• Original passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Confirmed return flight ticket.
• Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statement).

For Stamp Visa:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months.
• Completely filled and signed application form.
• Covering Letter.
• Photo as per specifications.
• Confirmed flight tickets.
• Proof of the purpose of the visit (e.g., exhibition pass, hotel bookings, invitation letter).
• Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements for the last three months).

Sri Lanka Visa Photo Specifications: Ensure that your visa photo meets the following specifications:

• Size: 35mm x 45mm.
• Colored photo taken within the last 6 months.
• Face covers 70-80% of the frame.
• Head well-centered.
• White background.
• Neutral expression.
• Both ears visible.
• No visible teeth.
• Prescription glasses allowed, but eyes must be clearly visible.
• No headgear except for religious reasons.
• Clothing should not match the background.

Sri Lanka Visa Fees: The method of payment for Sri Lanka visa fees depends on the visa process. ETA applications usually require electronic payment, while on-arrival ETA fees can be paid with debit/credit cards or cash (in US dollars). For long-term visas, various payment methods may apply, and fees can vary based on the number of entries and exchange rates.

Sri Lanka Visa Processing Time:

• ETA processing time (prior to arrival): Approximately 3 days (may vary).
• Stamped visa processing time: 15 to 20 days (up to 90 days in some cases).

How to Check Visa Status: You can check your Sri Lanka visa status online through the official website or by calling the 24/7 available call center at 0094 71 99 67 888.

Where to Apply: Visa applications can be submitted online or offline. If you find the process complex, consider seeking professional assistance from visa agencies for a smoother and quicker procedure.