Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified ETA Process
Starting in 2026, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for Sri Lanka has been streamlined for faster approvals, with most applications processed in under 24 hours for a fee of US$50. This applies to visa-exempt nationalities and is valid for multiple entries over two years, making repeat visits easier without reapplying each time.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Sri Lanka, and it should have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps to avoid issues at immigration.
Always carry a photocopy of your passport and visa while traveling within the country, as checkpoints may request them, especially in remote areas like the hill country.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and the Maldives can enter visa-free for up to 30 days, but must still complete the ETA form online for tracking purposes.
For extended stays or business, even visa-free visitors should apply for an extension through the Department of Immigration in Colombo to prevent overstay fines.
Visa Applications
Most nationalities require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) applied online via the official Sri Lanka ETA website (US$50 for 30 days, US$100 for 90 days), including a passport scan, photo, and proof of onward travel.
Processing typically takes 24-72 hours; apply at least a week in advance to account for peak season delays, and print your approval email as proof at the airport.
Border Crossings
Sri Lanka's main entry point is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, where ETA holders receive a stamp upon arrival after a quick verification scan.
Land borders from India via ferry are limited and require advance permissions; most travelers fly in, but expect health screenings and customs declarations for items over US$10,000 in value.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended and sometimes required for ETA approval, covering medical evacuation (essential due to remote areas), trip delays, and activities like wildlife safaris or surfing.
Opt for policies that include coverage for dengue fever outbreaks and water sports, starting from US$1.50 per day from international providers, and declare any pre-existing conditions.
Extensions Possible
ETA can be extended up to 180 days total by applying at the Immigration Department in Colombo or online, with fees around US$50-100 depending on duration, requiring proof of funds and accommodation.
Overstaying incurs fines of US$500 per day plus potential detention; always apply for extensions at least seven days before expiry to avoid complications.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Colombo by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during shoulder seasons like May or September.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at roadside karawala stalls or night markets for authentic rice and curry under LKR 500, avoiding tourist traps in Galle Fort to save up to 60% on meals.
Buy fresh fruits like king coconuts from street vendors for healthy, cheap snacks at LKR 100-200 each, and share family-style platters to stretch your budget.
Public Transport Passes
Opt for the intercity train from Colombo to Kandy (2nd class LKR 200) or buses for LKR 100-300 per leg, far cheaper than taxis which can cost LKR 5,000+ for the same route.
Consider a prepaid transport card for Colombo's urban buses and trains, often including discounts for multiple rides and saving 20-30% on daily commuting.
Free Attractions
Explore ancient sites like Sigiriya Rock (entry LKR 3,000 but climb for free views) or public beaches in Negombo, plus hiking in Ella's tea plantations without guides.
Many Buddhist temples such as the Temple of the Tooth offer free entry with optional donations, and national parks have affordable local rates under LKR 500 for budget explorers.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in cities and hotels, but rural areas like the hill country rely on cash; ATMs are widespread but charge LKR 300-500 fees, so withdraw larger amounts.
Use mobile wallets like FriMi for small payments to avoid carrying too much cash, and exchange USD at banks for better rates than airport kiosks, which add 5-10% premiums.
Attraction Bundles
Purchase the Cultural Triangle ticket (LKR 7,500) for access to multiple UNESCO sites like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, which pays off after just two visits compared to individual fees.
Look for combo deals on platforms like Trip.com for safaris and whale-watching, bundling transport and entry to reduce costs by 25-40% for multi-day itineraries.
Smart Packing for Sri Lanka
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical humidity, including long pants and sleeves for sun protection during safaris in Yala National Park.
Include modest attire like sarongs or shawls for temple visits to cover shoulders and knees, and quick-dry fabrics for monsoon rains in the southwest.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type D/G/M plugs, a solar-powered power bank for off-grid beach stays, and a waterproof phone case for whale-watching tours.
Download offline maps via apps like Maps.me for remote areas with spotty signal, and a portable Wi-Fi hotspot if planning extended stays in tea country where connectivity varies.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a mosquito net or repellent for dengue-prone areas, and a basic first-aid kit with rehydration salts for heat exhaustion.
Include high-SPF sunscreen (factor 50+), antidiarrheal meds for street food adventures, and any vaccinations like hepatitis A/B proof, plus a water purification tablet for rural hydration.
Travel Gear
Pack a lightweight daypack for train journeys like the scenic Kandy-Ella route, a reusable water bottle to refill at safe sources, and a sarong for versatile use as a towel or blanket.
Bring a money belt or neck pouch for valuables during crowded markets in Pettah, and multiple photocopies of your ETA and passport sealed in waterproof bags for peace of mind.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy sandals or hiking shoes for trekking Adam's Peak or exploring Sigiriya's ruins, with good grip for slippery temple steps during wet seasons.
Pack flip-flops for beach hopping in Mirissa and closed-toe shoes for urban areas to protect against dust and uneven pavements in Colombo's streets.
Personal Care
Include reef-safe sunscreen and biodegradable soap for eco-friendly beach stays, plus aloe vera gel for sunburn relief after days surfing in Arugam Bay.
Travel-sized insect repellent, wet wipes for dusty train rides, and a compact rain poncho are musts; opt for natural products to respect Sri Lanka's sensitive ecosystems.
When to Visit Sri Lanka
Southwest Monsoon (May-September)
The east coast shines with dry weather (25-30°C), ideal for beaches in Trincomalee and diving in Pigeon Island, while the southwest sees rains but fewer crowds in the cultural triangle.
Surfing peaks in Arugam Bay with consistent swells, and tea plantations in the hills offer misty hikes; expect lower hotel rates by 20-30% during this shoulder period.
Northeast Monsoon (October-November)
Transition season brings variable weather across the island (28-32°C), but it's great for wildlife safaris in Wilpattu as animals gather at waterholes post-rain.
Kite-surfing in Kalpitiya winds up, and early birding in Sinharaja rainforest; avoid if prone to seasickness due to occasional rough seas on both coasts.
Dry Season Southwest (December-April)
Peak time for sunny beaches in Bentota and whale-watching off Mirissa (28-31°C), with clear skies perfect for climbing Pidurangala Rock at dawn.
Festivals like Thai Pongal in January add cultural vibrancy, but book trains and resorts early as prices surge 50% and crowds fill popular spots like Galle.
Dry Season Northeast (December-April)
While the northeast enjoys dry conditions (26-30°C) for exploring ancient ruins in Polonnaruwa, the south remains prime for Ayurvedic retreats and train rides through Ella.
Elephant gatherings at Minneriya Reservoir are spectacular in the dry months; this period suits families with calm seas for snorkeling in Pasikudah Bay.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs are common in cities; exchange USD at banks for best rates. Cards accepted in tourist areas but cash needed for rural spots.
- Language: Sinhala and Tamil are official; English is widely spoken in hotels, transport, and tourist sites.
- Time Zone: Sri Lanka Standard Time (SLST), UTC+5:30
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type D/G/M plugs (three-pin and two-pin variations)
- Emergency Number: 119 for police, medical, or fire assistance; 118 for tourist police
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; LKR 100-200 for guides/drivers, 10% at restaurants if not included
- Water: Bottled water recommended; tap water unsafe for drinking. Avoid ice in rural areas.
- Pharmacies: Easily found in cities; look for "Aushadha" signs. Stock antimalarials if visiting eastern provinces.