Sri Lanka Just Made Travel Free for 40 Countries: Everything You Need to Know About the New ETA

Sri Lanka has waived ETA fees for 40 countries from May 25, 2026. Discover if you’re eligible, how to apply, and key rules for the free 30-day tourist visa.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: A Game-Changer for Sri Lanka Travel

2. The Full List of 40 Eligible Countries

3. What This Means for Travelers from India, UK, US, and Australia

4. Key Rules You Must Know

5. Step-by-Step Application Guide

6. Required Documents Checklist

7. Why Sri Lanka Made This Change

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Plan Your Sri Lanka Trip with Rediscover Journeys

Introduction: A Game-Changer for Sri Lanka Travel

Starting from May 25, 2026, Sri Lanka has officially waived the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) fee for travelers from 40 countries. This means citizens of the UK, US, India, Australia, Canada, Germany, and 34 other nations can now visit Sri Lanka without paying the previous visa processing fee of approximately $50.

This is a major step in Sri Lanka’s tourism revival, following a record 2.36 million arrivals in 2025 and ambitious targets of 2.7 to 3 million visitors in 2026. The move eliminates a key financial barrier, making the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” more accessible than ever.

However, there’s one critical detail you must not miss: the ETA itself is still mandatory. The fee has been waived, but the application process remains unchanged. This guide covers everything you need to know about the new free Sri Lanka ETA, step-by-step application instructions, and essential rules for your trip.

The Full List of 40 Eligible Countries

The free ETA program applies to nationals holding diplomatic, official, service, or ordinary passports from the following countries:

Source: Department of Immigration & Emigration, Sri Lanka

What This Means for Travelers from India, UK, US, and Australia

India 🇮🇳

Indian travelers were previously eligible for a visa on arrival but still had to complete formalities upon landing. With the new free Sri Lanka visa, Indians can now complete the entire process online before departure, making arrivals smoother and faster. Previously, SAARC nationals paid approximately $20 for the ETA.

United Kingdom 🇬🇧

UK travelers previously paid about $50 for the Sri Lanka ETA. From May 25, 2026, that fee is completely waived. British citizens can now obtain a free 30-day tourist visa through the ETA system.

United States 🇺🇸

US citizens are among the 40 eligible countries and can now apply for a free Sri Lanka tourist ETA. This applies to holders of diplomatic, official, service, or ordinary passports.

Australia 🇦🇺

Australian travelers are now eligible for the free 30-day tourist ETA, eliminating the previous visa fee.

Key Rules You Must Know

1. You Still Must Apply Online

Despite the fee waiver, all foreign nationals must still obtain an ETA before arriving in Sri Lanka. This applies to citizens of the 40 eligible countries as well as nationals of the Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore (which have bilateral agreements with Sri Lanka).

2. 30-Day Validity with Double Entry

The free ETA is valid for 30 days from the date of first arrival and permits double entry within that period.

Important: The 30-day validity period does not restart after leaving the country. If you use the double-entry facility, your second visit must still fall within the original 30-day window.

3. Maldivian Nationals Get 90 Days

Under existing reciprocal arrangements, Maldivian nationals will receive a 90-day tourist visa through the ETA system instead of the standard 30 days.

4. Extensions Available

Visitors wishing to stay beyond 30 days may apply for a Sri Lanka visa extension by paying the applicable visa fee.

5. No Refunds for Previous Payments

Any ETA fees paid before May 25, 2026, will not be refunded.

6. Countries Not Listed

Nationals of countries not included in the list of 40 will continue to follow the existing Sri Lanka ETA rules and fee structure.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Visit the Official ETA Website

Go to the official Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization system: www.eta.gov.lk.

Step 2: Complete the Online Form

Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel dates. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Step 3: Submit Application (No Fee)

Under the new scheme, ETA applications for eligible nationals will be processed free of charge. No payment is required.

Step 4: Receive ETA Confirmation

Once approved, the confirmation will be sent by email and linked electronically to your passport.

Step 5: Carry a Copy

While the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, it is still advised to carry a printed or digital copy of the approval at the airport.

Step 6: Present Required Documents at Arrival

• Passport valid for at least six months from entry

• Return or onward ticket (may be requested)

• Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay

• Digital or physical disembarkation card

Required Documents Checklist

Why Sri Lanka Made This Change

Tourism is a major focus for Sri Lanka in 2026. After record arrivals of 2.36 million in 2025, the country is aiming for roughly 2.7 to 3 million visitors this year. Waiving ETA fees makes entry smoother and cheaper for key source markets, including India, China, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and the US.

The broader free visa scheme was first proposed in mid-2024 but was delayed due to administrative procedures. It replaces the earlier limited free visa scheme that applied to only seven countries: China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sri Lanka visa-free now?

No. The ETA is still mandatory. Only the fee has been waived for nationals of 40 countries.

How long is the free ETA valid?

The free ETA is valid for 30 days from the date of first arrival, with double entry permitted within that period.

Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?

Yes. You can apply for a Sri Lanka visa extension by paying the applicable fee.

Can I get a refund if I already paid?

No. Any ETA fees paid before May 25, 2026, are non-refundable.

Do citizens of the Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore need an ETA?

Yes. They must also obtain an ETA before arrival, but the fee is waived under the new scheme. Maldivian nationals receive a 90-day tourist visa.

What happens if I don’t apply for an ETA before traveling?

You may face delays or be denied boarding/entry. All foreign nationals are required to obtain an ETA prior to arrival unless they already hold a valid visa or fall within an exempt category.

Plan Your Sri Lanka Trip with Rediscover Journeys

Rediscover Journeys is a boutique Sri Lanka tour operator with a 4.9/5 TrustScore on Trustpilot and the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025. As a fully licensed SLTDA operator with 35+ years of collective expertise, we specialize in tailor-made private tours, ethical wildlife safaris, and authentic cultural experiences.

With the new free Sri Lanka ETA, there’s never been a better time to visit. Let us craft your perfect itinerary whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.

Ready to plan your Sri Lanka adventure?

📞 Call us: +94 777 911 276 (24/7)

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Visit: rediscoversrilanka.com