Sri Lanka Visa Update: Free 30-Day Double-Entry ETA for 40 Countries Is Officially Live!
Say Ayubowan to Free Tourist Visas starting May 2026!
Exploring the ancient wonders of Sigiriya, the golden sand beaches of Mirissa, and the lush green tea hills of Ella just became incredibly seamless.
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Your dream island escape just got a massive financial and structural boost! Under a newly introduced travel directive effective May 25, 2026, short-term visitors from 40 specified countries can now secure their Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) completely free of charge.
Whether you are traveling on an Ordinary, Diplomatic, Service, or Official passport, this scheme cuts back upfront costs, allowing you to reallocate your travel budget to scenic coastal train rides, safari excursions, and mouthwatering curries.
Do you qualify for the Free Sri Lanka Visa?
Type your home country below to instantly check if you qualify for the new free 30-day double-entry ETA scheme.
Do not make the mistake of landing without your paperwork! **All foreign nationals**, including the 40 visa-exempt countries under this scheme, **MUST apply for and obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)** online prior to their arrival in Sri Lanka. It is processed free of charge, but you still need to secure the digital document beforehand.
List of Eligible Countries
We have categorized the 40 eligible nations into geographical regions so you can find your destination quickly:
🇪🇺 Europe (20 Countries)
- Austria
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Russia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
🌏 Asia Pacific (11 Countries)
- Australia
- China
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Malaysia
- Nepal
- New Zealand
- South Korea
- Thailand
🗺️ Middle East & Americas (9 Countries)
- Bahrain
- Canada
- Iran
- Israel
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- USA
🤝 Bilateral Agreements
These countries have reciprocal agreements with Sri Lanka and are processed 100% free of charge:
- Maldives (90 Days)
- Singapore (30 Days)
- Seychelles (30 Days)
Summary of Rules & Benefits
30-Day Limit
The free tourist ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days. Need more time? Standard extensions can be requested inside the country.
Double Entry Facility
Perfect for multi-stop Asian itineraries! You can enter, step away to a neighboring island, and return once more within 30 days.
All Passport Classes
Applies equally to holders of Ordinary, Diplomatic, Official, Service, and Special passports.
Bilateral Special (Maldives)
Maldivian tourists receive an automatic 90-day free tourism stay via their reciprocal treaty.
How to secure your Free Sri Lanka ETA (Pre-Arrival)
Prepare Your Passport
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of arrival in Colombo.
Access the Official Platform
Visit Sri Lanka's official government ETA portal. Select "Tourist ETA" and enter your travel details.
Zero Fee Processing
Since May 2026, the application fee should auto-calculate to USD $0.00 once you choose an eligible country of nationality. Review details and submit.
Receive & Print Approved ETA
A copy of your approved ETA will arrive in your email within 24–48 hours. Keep a printed or digital copy handy to present to immigration officials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Explore Sri Lanka with Us?
With visa fees waived, there is never a better time to lock in your Sri Lankan dream holiday! At **Dodoz Leisure**, we organize fully guided, curated boutique itineraries across the island.
Coastal Surf & Tea Trails
8 Days / 7 Nights
$749 /personThe Ancient Cultural Triangle
5 Days / 4 Nights
$489 /personSpread the word!
Know fellow travelers plotting their next escape? Let them know their visa is free!