Get a Sri Lanka Visa

Tourist Travel Requirements for an Sri Lanka Visa for UK Citizens

  1. ETA Eligibility

    The Sri Lankan Government have replaced their Visa On Arrival facility with a web-based visa issuance system. The ETA is an electronic authorisation from the Government to enter Sri Lanka. It is the equivalent to a visa, but no stamp or label is placed in the passport.

    To be eligible the traveller must:

    • Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
    • Apply within 90 days before arrival in Sri Lanka
    • Hold proof of sufficient funds
    • Hold proof of onward/return flights
    • Hold all documents required for the next destination

    All questions on the Sri Lanka ETA order form must be answered correctly as mistakes cannot be rectified once submitted.

  2. Visa Validity

    This visa is valid for 6 months from date of issue for a stay of up to 30 days. Applicants must ensure all subsequent entries and exits are completed within 30 days from the first date of entry.

  3. Copy of Passport

    A clear photocopy of the applicant's passport identification page(s)

  4. ETA Questionnaire

    One fully completed Sri Lanka ETA Questionnaire which can be found within the CIBTvisas Visa Application Pack.

  5. CIBTvisas Order Confirmation

    Provide the CIBTvisas Order Form included in this kit.

Business Travel Requirements for an Sri Lanka Visa for UK Citizens

  1. Passport

    The applicant's actual signed passport. The passport must:

    • Have at least one blank visa page
    • Be valid for six months beyond exit date

  2. Photograph(s)

    You must provide two colour, passport type photographs that meet the following criteria:

    • Be taken within the last three months and printed on high quality photo paper
    • Be taken against an all white background
    • Be 35 mm by 45mm in size
    • Provide the full frontal view of your head with your face centered in the middle and displaying a neutral (non-smiling) expression
    • You may wear neither spectacles nor headwear except for religious purposes
    • Your photos should not be affixed to your application or display evidence of adhesive or staples

  3. Business Introduction Letter

    You must provide an original Business Introduction Letter from the applicant's UK employer. All letters must be printed on company letterhead that displays a UK postal address. Use the sample Business Introduction Letter provided at http://cibtvisas.co.uk/forms?formname=Business%20Introduction%20Letter%20Sample.pdf to complete your letter.

    Note that most consulates require the Business Cover Letter to be dated within one month of application submission.

    In addition to the language provided in the sample, your Business Introduction Letter must:
    • Be addressed to: "The Sri Lanka High Commission, 13 Hyde Park Gardens, London, W2 2LU"

  4. Letter of Invitation

    A letter of invitation from the company the applicant is visiting. A copy is acceptable. This letter must:

    • Be addressed to: "The Sri Lanka High Commission, 13 Hyde Park Gardens, London, W2 2LU"
    • Be on company letterhead paper
    • Include the name of the applicant
    • State the purpose of journey
    • State the date(s) of journey
    • Specify the requested number of entries and the length of visa required
    • Explain the reasons for the number of entries required if more than one entry requested    

  5. Visa Application Form

    One fully completed and signed application form

  6. CIBTvisas Order Confirmation

    Provide the CIBTvisas Order Form included in this kit.

Sri Lanka Visa FAQ

  1. When is the best time to apply for my Sri Lanka visa?

    The best time to apply for your Sri Lanka visa is 1-2 months before your travel date. However, if you are running short on time, we may be able to process your visa on a faster service at the Embassy’s discretion.

  2. Do I have to send you my passport to get a Sri Lanka visa? Is it safe to send a passport?

    Yes. You will need to send your actual passport, not a copy of it. The Sri Lanka visa is stamped on your passport and will become one of your passport pages. Visa request cannot be processed without your original passport. Because of the importance of your passport, we strongly suggest that you send your application by a secure method, such as a guaranteed postal service or courier.