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Sri Lanka Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

UK citizens travelling to Sri Lanka must obtain an ETA online before travel via https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/; visa on arrival is effectively ETA pre-approval and entry at Colombo; ETA fee is around USD 35 with processing typically 24–72 hours.

Guide last updated September 5, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka and have at least one blank page.
  • Specific forms: there is no separate UK visa form to fill at a post office; apply for an ETA online at https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/; DS-160/VAF1A are not used for Sri Lanka ETA.
  • Financial proof: not required as part of ETA; you may be asked for evidence of sufficient funds on arrival, but there is no fixed amount.
  • Accommodation and return ticket requirements: have accommodation details handy and a return or onward ticket as a plan; not strictly required but recommended.
  • Photo spec: upload a recent passport-style photo (2x2 inches 51x51 mm) with a white background; JPEG format; ensure no shadows.
  • Biometrics: not required to visit a center for biometrics for ETA; the process is electronic; print the ETA confirmation to carry.
  • Travel health insurance: not mandatory to enter, but strongly recommended; ensure coverage for your stay.
  • Official portal: eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ is the official Sri Lanka ETA portal; you can also check updates via the Sri Lanka MFA site at https://www.mfa.gov.lk/ .

Visa types

  • Tourist ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization - Tourist): validity up to 12 months from issue; stay up to 30 days per visit; multiple entries; approximate fee around USD 35.
  • Business ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization - Business): validity up to 12 months from issue; stay up to 30 days per visit; multiple entries; approximate fee around USD 35.
  • Transit ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization - Transit): validity up to 12 months from issue; stay up to 2 days per transit; multiple entries; approximate fee around USD 35.
  • Note: UK citizens typically use Tourist or Business ETA; check the ETA approval for exact validity and stay details in your email confirmation.

Visa on arrival

  • How to apply online: go to https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ and choose the ETA option; create an account and fill in the required details.
  • Steps: fill travel details, upload passport and photo, pay the ETA fee online, receive ETA approval by email, print and carry it.
  • Ports and entry: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) Colombo is the main entry point for international travelers; there is no separate on-arrival visa stamping at other ports.
  • Fee and currencies: ETA fee is around USD 35; payment is online by card; no cash visa-on-arrival desks are needed.
  • Queue tips: arrive early, print ETA, have passport, travel documents, hotel and onward ticket information handy; immigration officers may verify details on arrival.
  • How approval arrives: you will receive an email with your ETA; present the ETA confirmation at immigration on arrival.

Fees & processing time

  • ETA fee: USD 35 (approx.); no VFS/BLS service fee for ETA; local currency equivalents vary with exchange rate; you will be charged in USD when paying online.
  • Total cost estimate: USD 35 per applicant, plus potential bank card processing charges on the payment gateway.
  • Standard processing time: usually 24–72 hours; best to apply at least 3 days before travel; in busy periods processing may take longer.
  • Express/priority option: not typically offered for ETA; check during application if any expedited processing is available.

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • How far in advance to apply: plan to apply at least 3 days before travel; for peak seasons, apply up to 2 weeks prior.
  • Common rejection reasons for UK applicants specifically: passport validity less than 6 months, mismatch in personal data (name, date of birth), passport data errors, photograph not meeting requirements, inconsistent travel details or lack of accommodation/return details when requested.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: Sri Lanka operates ETA online; no VFS/BLS appointment is required for ETA; for sticker visas or emergencies, contact the Sri Lankan High Commission in London or the Sri Lanka Embassy nearby; check official sources.
  • Travel advisories or bilateral notes: consult UK government travel advice for Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's current advisories; check any entry restrictions related to health or security.
  • Extension options inside Sri Lanka: ETA can sometimes be extended by applying for an extension through the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DI&E) in Sri Lanka before your current ETA expires; extension durations and fees apply; inquire at DI&E or their official site for details.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.