Sri Lanka offers free ETA visas in 2026 for 40 countries including India, UK, UAE and Australia. Learn eligibility, rules and how to apply.
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka is about to get much easier. In April 2026, Sri Lanka’s Tourism Minister, Vijitha Herath, announced that the government is planning to introduce a free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for travellers from around 40 countries.
This means that people from countries like India, the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and Australia may soon be able to visit Sri Lanka without paying for a visa.
If you’ve been thinking about visiting Sri Lanka but didn’t want to deal with visa costs, this new policy could make travel simpler and more affordable.
In this guide, we’ll explain what’s changing, who may be eligible, and how to apply.
Table of Contents
What Is the Sri Lanka ETA?
What Changed in 2026?
Which Countries May Get the Free ETA?
How to Apply
How Long Can You Stay in Sri Lanka?
Key Conditions to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Trip to Sri Lanka
What Is the Sri Lanka ETA?
The Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an online system that allows tourists to get travel approval before arriving in the country.
You can apply through the official website eta.gov.lk by submitting your passport and travel details. Once approved, you’ll receive confirmation via email, usually within 24 to 72 hours.
When you arrive in Sri Lanka, you’ll need to show this approval to the immigration officer.
Currently, most travellers pay a fee for a tourist ETA (typically $50, or $20 for SAARC countries). Under the proposed 2026 policy, eligible travellers may receive the ETA free of charge.
What Changed in 2026?
In 2025, Sri Lanka launched a pilot program offering free ETA visas to travellers from a few countries, including India. This led to an increase in tourist arrivals.
Following this, in April 2026, the government announced plans to expand the free ETA program to around 40 countries.
Important:
This policy is still under approval and has not yet been fully implemented. The final country list and official start date have not been confirmed.
The government expects this move to attract more tourists in 2026 and 2027.
Which Countries May Get the Free ETA?
The official list has not been finalized yet. However, based on early announcements, the program may include travellers from:
India, China, Russia
United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain
United States, Canada
United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain
Australia, New Zealand
Note: This list may change. Always check the official ETA website before applying.
How to Apply
Applying for a Sri Lanka ETA is simple and usually takes 10 to 15 minutes:
Visit the official website: eta.gov.lk
Select “Tourist Visa”
Enter your passport details (passport number, nationality, date of birth, expiry date)
Add your travel details (arrival date, airport, accommodation)
Confirm payment (or no payment if eligible)
Receive your ETA approval via email (within 24–72 hours)
Tip:
Apply at least 3 to 5 days before your travel date. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival.
How Long Can You Stay in Sri Lanka?
A tourist ETA usually allows you to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days.
If you want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension through the Department of Immigration in Colombo. Extensions can allow you to stay up to 6 months in total.
Make sure to apply before your current ETA expires.
Key Conditions to Know
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
You may need to show proof of return or onward travel
You cannot work in Sri Lanka on a tourist visa
A yellow fever certificate may be required for some travellers
Visa on arrival is still available, but online application is recommended
Final entry is decided by immigration officers at the airport
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need to apply if the ETA is free?
Yes, you must still apply even if the fee is removed.
How long does it take to get an ETA?
Usually 24 to 72 hours.
Can children apply for an ETA?
Yes, each traveller, including children, needs their own ETA.
What if the ETA website is not working?
You can try again later or apply for a visa on arrival.
Is ETA the same as a visa on arrival?
No. ETA is pre-approval; visa on arrival is issued at the airport.
What is the current ETA fee if not eligible?
Around $50 for most travellers and $20 for SAARC countries.
Plan Your Trip to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s proposed free ETA policy is a major step toward making travel easier and more affordable.
If approved, travellers from countries like India, the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and Australia will find it much easier to explore Sri Lanka’s beaches, hills, wildlife, and cultural attractions.
If you’re planning your trip, now is the perfect time to get started.
Need help planning your Sri Lanka holiday?
We can help you with custom tour packages, hotel bookings, and guided experiences across the island.
Contact us today to plan your trip without any hassle.
Written by
Admin
Sri Lanka Holidays Tours