eVisa Replaces Electronic Travel Authorization System in Sri Lanka

The eVisa offers a faster processing time and a streamlined application process.

The eVisa applies to the following visa sub-categories, some of which the DOIE introduced for the purposes of this new visa system:

• Tourist Visas (30 days Tourist Visa, Standard Double Entry Tourist Visa for six months; one-, two-, five- and ten-year Multiple Entry Tourist Visas); and
• Business Visas (Standard Double Entry Business Visa for six months; one-, two- five- and ten-year Multiple Entry Business Visas).

Some applicants, based on their nationality, may be exempt from a visa.

The eVisa costs vary depending on the visa type.

Applicants must apply on the eVisa website, print out their emailed eVisa and present it to authorities at the Sri Lankan point of entry. Long-term tourist and business visa applicants no longer need to apply for Line Ministry approval prior to applying for the visa, as they previously did under the ETA.

The DOIE intends to create an online platform for eVisa renewals, but until this occurs, applicants who have been granted an ETA before April 17, 2024 (under the previous visa system) will be able to renew their visas by submitting a physical visa application to the DOIE. Those who have been granted an eVisa after April 17, 2024 under this new online system will be unable to extend and will instead be required to leave Sri Lanka and re-enter under a new eVisa.

Applicants from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, the Maldives, Nigeria, North Korea and Syria must apply for the eVisa online, but also must submit other required documents at the DOIE. Once approved, the visa will be issued as an eVisa.

This alert, for informational purposes only, was prepared by Fragomen and originally published here. If you have any questions, please contact us.