Sri Lanka Free Tourist ETA & Entry Guide for Indian Citizens (2026)

At a glance

Indian passport holders enjoy a zero-fee Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme for Sri Lanka tourism. While the fee is waived, submitting an ETA application online prior to departure remains mandatory. DheeVoy summarises the free ETA process, documentation, Colombo customs, and FAQs for 2026.

Sri Lanka free ETA policy for Indian nationals

India is Sri Lanka's largest tourism market, and under current government regulations, Indian passport holders enjoy a zero-fee Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme. While the tourist visa processing fee is fully waived, submitting an ETA application online prior to departure remains mandatory. Entering Sri Lanka without pre-registering on the official ETA portal can lead to long waiting lines and penalty fees at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport.

Online application process & documentation requirements

To claim your free 30-day double-entry tourist ETA, complete the online form on the official Sri Lanka ETA portal (eta.gov.lk) 3 to 7 days before your flight.

Required Verification Documents:

1. Indian Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
2. Confirmed Return Flight Ticket: Proof of onward or return transport back to India or a third destination within 30 days.
3. Accommodation Proof: Confirmed hotel vouchers or host invitation details.
4. Approved ETA Confirmation: Soft copy or printed copy of the approval email.

Processing Time: Online applications are generally processed within 12 to 24 hours. The approved double-entry ETA allows you to leave Sri Lanka (e.g., for a brief trip to the Maldives) and re-enter within the same 30-day stay period.

Immigration & financial verification at Colombo airport

Upon landing at Colombo Airport, immigration officers verify your electronic ETA against your passport number. Officers may request proof of sufficient funds for your stay (in USD, INR, or credit/forex travel cards). Indian Rupees (INR) are not widely accepted for direct currency transactions in local markets, so carrying USD or withdrawing Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) at airport ATMs is recommended.

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