Travel Update · 2026

Sri Lanka: Free Tourist ETA

From 25 May 2026, the 30-day tourist visa fee is waived for nationals of 40 countries. The application is still required — but it now costs you nothing.

40 Eligible Countries
30 Days Free Stay
$0 Tourist ETA Fee

A free 30-day tourist ETA

Effective 25 May 2026, Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration & Emigration waives the tourist ETA fee for nationals of 40 countries. Eligible visitors get a 30-day stay with double-entry permitted within the validity period — at no cost.

Important — it's free, not automatic. This is not visa-free entry. You still need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before you fly — only the fee has been removed. Travellers who paid an ETA fee before 25 May 2026 are not refunded. Stays beyond 30 days require a paid extension.

The 40 eligible countries

Holders of ordinary (as well as diplomatic, official and service) passports from these countries qualify for the free tourist ETA:

  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Bahrain
  • Belarus
  • Belgium
  • Canada
  • China
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Iran
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kuwait
  • Malaysia
  • Nepal
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Poland
  • Qatar
  • Russia
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Korea
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Thailand
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States

Not on the list? You can still visit — the standard ETA rules and fee apply to your nationality. We're happy to advise.

Apply on the official portal

Always apply through the official Sri Lankan government ETA portal — avoid third-party sites that charge extra service fees. Apply a few days before departure; approval is usually quick.

Information current as of May 2026, based on the Department of Immigration & Emigration circular. Visa rules can change — please confirm details on the official portal before you travel.

Let's make the most of your 30 days.

With the ETA fee gone, there's never been a better time. Tell us what you're imagining — we'll build the route and guide you through every step.