Sri Lanka Visa for Indian citizens

The passport holders of India, who wish to plan a perfect and successful holiday to Sri Lanka, should note that obtaining a visa for traveling to Sri Lanka from India is the first and the most important step without which a legal entry in the country will not be possible. To avoid going through lengthy application procedures of a traditional Sri Lanka Visa, the Sri Lankan authorities encourage all applicants to obtain a Sri Lanka eTA for Indian citizens

Since the concept of an eTA may be new for many applicants, here is a detailed guide to understand what an eTA for Sri Lanka is!

Apply For A Sri Lanka eTA 3 (Three) Days Before Scheduled Trip

Yes. The most standout feature of  Sri Lanka eTA is that it is obtained before the journey to Sri Lanka starts. This means that no visitor will have to go through the hassle of completing Visa on Arrival formalities after they have arrived in Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lanka eTA for Indian citizens will facilitate the entry of the traveler into the country. Since the Sri Lanka eTA is an electronic travel permit, applicants have the convenience of applying from any location at any time. This flexibility allows for a seamless and hassle-free application process.

The Sri Lanka eTA Requirements For The Indian Passport Holders

Before an applicant is able to start an application for a Sri Lanka eTA for Indian citizens, they will have to meet certain requirements without which obtaining an eTA for Sri Lanka will be impossible. The requirements include:

• An Indian passport: The minimum number of days for which this travel document should be valid for is one hundred and eighty days. This validity should be present from the date on which the traveler steps in Sri Lanka from India.
• Credit cards or debit cards: These cards should be authorized for making digital payment of the eVisa fees.
• A current email ID: This email address should be filled out in the eTA online application questionnaire. A current email ID should be given as all necessary communication about the eVisa will take place through the medium of email.

Please remember that the above-mentioned requirements are generally. Basic requirements that are the same for all kinds of eTA that are: Tourist eTA, Business eTA and Transit eTA Based on the type of eTA obtained. An applicant may need to submit additional/supporting documents.

For example: To apply for a Business eTA, the applicant will have to possess an invitation letter from the side of the organization that is inviting the business visitor from India to indulge in business-related motives in Sri Lanka.

Application Steps For Obtaining A Sri Lanka eTA From India Online

Applicants can finish applying for a Sri Lanka eTA for Indian citizens in the matter of ten to fifteen minutes as it is a straightforward and easy-to-understand travel permit that can be obtained anytime and anywhere the applicant wishes. To successfully complete the application process of a Sri Lanka electronic travel authorization, the applicant will have to complete these steps:

• Fill the electronic travel authorization application questionnaire with relevant and necessary details. Applicants typically need to provide specific details when completing the application form. These include personal information, passport details, travel plans, contact information, and a completed declaration form. Ensuring accuracy in these sections is important for a smooth application process.
• Double-check all responses filled out in the Sri Lanka eTA application form. Doing this helps applicants avoid the inconvenience of reapplying due to a rejected eTA or facing delays in approval. Proper preparation ensures a smoother application process and timely travel arrangements.
• Make a protected payment of the Sri Lanka eTA application. Mediums that should be used for completing these steps are valid credit cards or debit cards.
• Get an electronic travel authorization confirmation after making a payment. After the end of the processing period, get an email with an approved eTA for Sri Lanka.

How To Travel To Sri Lanka From India With The Approved ETA?

Once applicants receive their approved eTA, they must print it on paper and keep it with essential travel documents, including a valid Indian passport. This preparation ensures smooth processing during the journey. Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, the applicant will have to submit their approved eTA copy and their Indian passport to the immigration authorities. They will verify the identity of the traveler.

After verification, authorities grant travelers permission to enter Sri Lanka and enjoy their approved stay duration. This ensures a smooth and organized entry process for visitors

Complying With The Sri Lankan Laws And Regulations

Travelers visiting Sri Lanka with the eTA for Indian citizens must prioritise adhering to the country’s laws and regulations. Compliance ensures a smooth and respectful stay throughout their visit. Some Key points to follow in Sri Lanka with the electronic travel authorization for the passport holders of India is as follows:

Respect local laws

Indian travelers planning a trip to Sri Lanka should take time to familiarize themselves with the country’s laws and regulations. Understanding and respecting these rules is crucial to ensure a safe and trouble-free journey. Travelers must adhere to various regulations during their stay, including traffic rules, public conduct guidelines, and specific conditions linked to their electronic travel authorization. Following these rules at all times ensures a lawful and smooth experience in Sri Lanka.

The ETA Conditions

On the approved electronic travel authorization for Sri Lanka, the traveler will notice certain rules and regulations regarding the traveler’s stay in Sri Lanka with the authorized travel permit. These rules outlined on the eVisa document should be followed. Failure in doing so will lead to serious consequences.

For instance, travelers must avoid prohibited actions based on the specific eTA type they hold. For example, travelers must avoid conducting business activities if they hold a Tourist eTA. Engaging in such actions violates the terms of the authorization and should be strictly avoided. Respecting these limitations ensures proper and lawful use of the travel authorization

Reporting changes

In many cases, there may be certain changes taking place to the circumstances of the traveler. For example: 1. Change in name after marriage or other reasons. 2. Change in the address, etc should be reported to the relevant Sri Lankan authorities.

Stunning Places In Sri Lanka For The Indian Passport Holders

• Ella: Here the visitors can witness the beauty and elegance of a gorgeous countryside.
• Nuwara Eliya: The best location to get awe-struck with breath-taking natural beauty and dense landscapes.
• Polonnaruwa: Witness the charm of age-old ruins that dictate some of the most important eras and periods in history.
• Mirissa: Here the visitors from India can enjoy the beauty of witnessing whales in their natural habitat.
• Yala National Park: Get stunned with some of the most majestic wildlife beauties.
• Ulpotha: Experience the healing powers of Ayurveda at the land of Ayurveda and natural healing.
• Kandalama: Explore a village that transcends worldly beauty and gives a glimpse into the beauty of the heavens.
• Unawatuna Beach: Witness the charm of gorgeous beaches with breath-taking sunsets and sunrise and turquoise waves.
• Spice Garden: As the name suggests, this location in Sri Lanka will allow visitors to add an incredible touch of spice to their holiday.
• International Buddhist Museum: Here the visitors from India can awaken their natural sense of spirituality and experience the highest levels of peace and tranquility.

We hope that this informative post about obtaining a Sri Lanka Visa for Indian citizens was helpful. It is also useful for all travelers who wish to have a successful vacation to the paradise ocean nation!

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For Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka, a visa on arrival can be issued. However, Indian tourists can also apply for an e-tourist Visa for Sri Lanka for a hassle-free journey and to save time at the Sri Lankan airport. Find out more at Is Sri Lanka Cheap for Indian Tourists?.