A land of endless possibilities, from its breathtaking landscapes to its bustling cities. With its stunning natural beauty, Sri Lanka is a destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. From the lush greenery of its tea plantations to the pristine beaches of its coastline, Sri Lanka is a country that is teeming with life and adventure. And, with our visa services, we make it easier for you to explore this fascinating country. Whether you’re planning a trip to visit friends or family, or you’re looking to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka as a tourist, we are here to help make your journey to this beautiful island a reality.
You do not need to show a COVID vaccination certificate or negative COVID test to enter Sri Lanka
Travel document requriements
To enter Sri Lanka, all visitors must obtain a visa either upon arrival or beforehand. For tourism purposes, most visitors are required to acquire an ETA to be eligible for a visa on arrival, except for those exempt from this requirement.
With ETA, you can:
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Stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days at a time. It may be extended for up to 6 months
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Enjoy a holidays, visit your family or friends or cruise, or attend a cultural event.
To be eligible for this visa, you must:
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Have a valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry into Sri Lanka.
Visa-exempt countries
Citizens of the following countries can enter Sri Lanka without a visa:
 Maldives (30 days, extendable up to 180 days) |
 Seychelles (60 days, up to 90 days per calendar year) |
 Singapore (30 days, extendable up to 180 days) |
Prior approval required
Visa prior approval is a process that requires individuals to obtain approval from the immigration authorities of Sri Lanka before they can apply for a visa. The following countries need to obtain prior approval:
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Cameroon
Côte d’Ivoire
Ghana
Hong Kong
Kosovo
Nigeria
North Korea
Taiwan
SyriaHealth insurance
When traveling to Sri Lanka, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive health insurance. This ensures that you are covered for any unexpected medical emergencies, including accidents, illnesses, and any necessary hospitalizations. Sri Lanka's healthcare system provides quality services, but having health insurance can save you from significant out-of-pocket expenses and provide peace of mind. Additionally, many insurance policies offer support services like medical evacuation and 24/7 assistance, ensuring that you receive timely and appropriate care no matter where you are in the country.
Currency
When traveling to Sri Lanka, it's important to familiarize yourself with the local currency, the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). The rupee is divided into 100 cents, with coins commonly available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 rupees, and banknotes in denominations ranging from 20 to 5000 rupees. Major cities and tourist areas have plenty of ATMs where you can withdraw local currency using international debit or credit cards. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to rural areas where ATMs might be scarce and credit card acceptance is limited.
Currency exchange services are widely available at airports, banks, and authorized money exchange centers. It’s best to exchange money at official institutions to avoid counterfeit notes. Keep in mind that while larger establishments in cities may accept credit cards, smaller vendors, restaurants, and transport services often prefer cash payments. Additionally, make sure to carry smaller denominations for convenience in everyday transactions. Familiarizing yourself with the local currency and handling cash appropriately will enhance your travel experience and ensure smooth financial transactions throughout your stay in Sri Lanka.
Culture and etiquette
Sri Lanka is a country rich in culture and tradition, influenced by its history, religion, and diverse ethnic groups. The predominant religions are Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, each contributing to the island's vibrant cultural tapestry. Visitors will find a wealth of cultural landmarks, including ancient temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant festivals. Sri Lankans are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors are often greeted with friendly smiles and a genuine willingness to help.
When it comes to etiquette, there are a few key points to keep in mind to show respect for local customs. When visiting religious sites, it is important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and to remove shoes and hats before entering temples or shrines. It is also customary to avoid turning your back to Buddha statues, as this is considered disrespectful. When greeting locals, a traditional greeting involves placing your hands together in a prayer-like gesture and saying "Ayubowan" (may you live long) or "Vanakkam" in Tamil-speaking regions. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, and it is polite to ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially monks and religious ceremonies. By respecting these cultural norms and showing consideration for local customs, visitors can enjoy a deeper and more meaningful connection with the people and heritage of Sri Lanka.