Flight reservation
Recommended
The official ETA information page we read does not mention a return ticket. Travel guides say visitors should carry one and that it can be asked for on arrival, so have a return or onward booking ready.
Get it for ₹708
Asia
Sri Lanka visa checklist for Indian applicants
Indian citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization before travelling to Sri Lanka. India is reported to be among the 40 countries whose nationals receive the tourist ETA free of charge from 25 May 2026. It is applied for online and issued by Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration and Emigration.
- Visa
- Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – tourist
- Visa fee
- Free of charge for tourist ETAs for nationals of the 40 listed countries (India is reported to be on the list). Confirm on eta.gov.lk when applying.
- Processing time
- Check the official page
- Stay allowed
- 30 days, double entry, counted from the first arrival
Documents to prepare
Where to apply: Online on the official ETA site, eta.gov.lk.
- 1
Passport
Guides cite six months of validity; the official page we read does not state it, so confirm.
- 2
ETA application
Completed online at eta.gov.lk before departure.
- 3
ETA approval
Carry the approval notice with the same passport.
- 4
Return or onward ticket
Advisable; may be requested at the border.
- 5
Address in Sri Lanka
Hotel or host details for the stay.
- 6
Proof of funds
Advisable; confirm on the official page.
- 7
Fee
Tourist ETA free for listed nationalities; other ETA types and nationalities are charged.
- 8
Second entry
On a second entry only the unused balance of the 30 days is granted.
Travel medical insurance: Not required.
Hotel booking
Optional
Not mentioned on the official ETA page. Guides suggest carrying proof of accommodation, and the form asks for an address in Sri Lanka.
Get it for ₹590Questions
Sri Lanka visa FAQ
Does Sri Lanka ask for a flight reservation for an ETA?
The official ETA page we read does not list one. Travel guides consistently advise carrying a return or onward ticket because it can be asked for at check-in or on arrival, so we class it as recommended.
Is a hotel booking needed for Sri Lanka?
It is not stated on the official ETA page. Having an address for the stay is practical for the form and for any questions on arrival.
When should I book flights for Sri Lanka?
Apply for the ETA once your dates are fixed and have a booking in hand before you travel. If plans may change, a held reservation keeps the dates flexible until you are ready to pay.
Is the Sri Lanka ETA free for Indians?
Reports from May 2026 say India is among 40 countries whose citizens get a free 30-day tourist ETA, and the official site confirms a fee waiver for 40 listed countries. Check the list on eta.gov.lk when you apply, as waivers can change.
Sources and accuracy
Official ETA information page read November 2026; India's place on the 40-country list taken from press reports.. Last checked 2026-11. We are not a government body and this page is general information, not visa advice. Consulates change their lists without notice, so always confirm on the official page before you apply.
Flight and hotel proof for your Sri Lanka file.
Message us your route and dates. We reply with the price and a secure payment link, then send your PDF on WhatsApp.
WhatsApp +91 91155 80911