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:
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.
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.
- Pay the visa/ETA fee online (credit/debit card, as allowed) and submit.
- Receive the ETA approval via email (or check status online). Print a copy (or have a digital copy) to present on arrival.
- On arrival in Sri Lanka: Present passport, ETA print-out, immigration form, onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. Some travelers may be asked for accommodation details.
3. Fees, validity, and stay duration
Here are the key details EU travelers should know:- The fee for the ETA/e-Visa varies: while some sources list around US$35-50 for a short stay tourism ETA, others list higher amounts (and service-provider mark-ups).
- Duration of stay: Typically, the ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days for tourism. Some business ETAs allow multiple entries within 30 days.
- Extensions: It is possible to extend a short-stay visa/ETA in Sri Lanka, but the process isn’t guaranteed—so plan accordingly.
- Fee changes and policy shifts: Note that in recent years, Sri Lanka has announced visa-free access for certain nationalities and changes to the e-Visa/ETA system. Some of these announcements specifically mention EU citizen eligibility as still pending.
4. Requirements and pre-departure checklist
Before you travel from Europe to Sri Lanka, ensure:- A passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival (typical requirement).
- You have applied for and received your ETA/e-Visa approval prior to departure.
- A printed or digital copy of the ETA.
- A return or onward flight ticket.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, guest-house confirmation) or details of where you’ll stay.
- Sufficient funds for your stay (some immigration officers may ask).
- Travel insurance (recommended, if not required).
- Understand local customs and entry rules (e.g., when visiting temples, modest attire).
- If visiting for business, you are not taking up employment; a business visa/ETA is distinct from a work visa.
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