Sri Lanka Immigration Services

Transiting through Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) remains a convenient hub for journeys across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. With the recent mandate for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), all short-stay visitors—including those in transit—must secure prior approval to ensure seamless entry. Whether your layover is brief or extends to a short city exploration, understanding these rules prevents delays and unexpected costs. This article addresses common search queries: Do I need a visa for a Colombo layover? How long can I stay? And what's the process? Do You Need a Transit Visa for Colombo? Most international travelers require a Transit ETA if planning to leave the airport or stay beyond 24 hours during a layover in Colombo. However, exemptions apply for airside transits (staying within the international zone without clearing immigration). Key Scenarios: Airside Transit (Under 24 Hours, No Exit): No visa or ETA needed, provided you have a confirmed o...

If you’re an EU citizen planning to travel to Sri Lanka for tourism (or a short business trip), you will need to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or e-Visa before arrival. The visa-free regime is not yet applicable to most EU passport-holders, despite announcements. Check Sri Lanka visa requirements for EU citizens in this article: 1. Who needs a visa and what kind? For EU citizens (i.e., passport-holders of countries in the European Union) traveling to Sri Lanka for tourism or short business, the key points are: All short-stay travelers (tourism or business) are required to obtain an ETA before arrival. For EU citizens, a tourist ETA is the typical route. Business ETAs are available but exclude paid employment. 2. Step-by-step: How to apply Here is how to apply for your Sri Lanka ETA as an EU citizen: Visit the official ETA portal Complete the online form: Submit passport details, nationality, purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit), travel dates, etc....