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Colombo Transit Visa

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 onward ticket and remain in the secure transit area.

Landside Transit (Exiting Airport, Up to 2 Days): Mandatory Transit ETA required. This applies if your layover exceeds 24 hours, you wish to explore Colombo's attractions (e.g., Gangaramaya Temple or the Dutch Hospital), or enter Sri Lanka territory.

Longer Stays or Other Purposes: Upgrade to a Tourist or Business ETA/visa.

Eligibility and Requirements for Transit ETA

The Transit ETA is designed for incidental stops en route to another destination. It permits entry into Sri Lanka but prohibits work, business, or extended residence.

Document/ConditionDetails
  • Valid Passport
  • Minimum 6 months validity from the Sri Lanka departure date.
  • Onward/Return Ticket
  • Confirmed flight/sea ticket to a third country within 2 days.
  • Proof of Funds (Recommended)
  • Bank statement showing at least $15 per day; may be requested at entry.
  • No Criminal Record
  • Standard for all ETAs; declare if applicable.
  • Health/VaccinationYellow fever certificate if from endemic areas; no COVID-19 mandates.
  • Children and minors follow the same rules, with parental consent forms advised for unaccompanied travel.

Applying for a transit visa – steps & requirements

Here is a step-by-step on how to apply for the transit visa (or transit ETA) when required:
  • Visit the official ETA portal and complete the application form.
  • Have your passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • Attach proof of your onward ticket or sea passage to another destination.
  • Submit the application online. For up to 2 days transit, the fee is free for eligible applicants (for most nationalities) according to the official schedule.
  • On arrival, present passport, transit visa approval (if required), onward ticket, and respond to any immigration questions.

Note about Transit visa:

  • Stay duration: Up to 2 days for the transit visa. After that, you may need another visa category.
  • Cannot extend: The 2-day transit visa generally “will permit passengers to transit … and to enter the destination country within such period where the visa period cannot be extended as transit further.”
  • Activities not allowed: You cannot engage in paid or unpaid employment, business activities, or use the transit arrangement to reside repeatedly in Sri Lanka via successive transits.

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