Yes, minors (children under 18 years old) generally require a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka, just like adult travelers. There are no blanket exemptions based on age alone—visa rules apply universally to all foreign nationals, regardless of whether they're traveling with parents, guardians, or unaccompanied. However, children qualify for fee waivers and may need extra documentation to prove parental consent and prevent issues like child trafficking concerns.
Application Process for Minors
- Apply online.
- Select "Tourist ETA" and indicate the child is a minor (under 18).
- Upload: Child's passport (6+ months validity), 2 photos (35x45mm, white background), birth certificate (to prove parentage), and proof of accommodation/onward ticket.
- Parents/guardians sign the application digitally or in person.
- Processing: 24–72 hours; print approval for immigration.
Additional Documents
- Birth certificate: To verify parent-child relationship, especially if surnames differ.
- Parental consent letter: Notarized affidavit from both parents/guardians authorizing travel. Include contact details, travel itinerary, and guardian's info if unaccompanied. (Required for children under 16 traveling alone or with one parent.)
- If traveling with one parent: Letter from the absent parent + copy of their ID/passport.
- If unaccompanied: Affidavit from Sri Lankan host/caregiver + embassy endorsement.
- Health/insurance: Recommended for all, but proof of vaccination (e.g., yellow fever if from endemic areas) may be checked.
Exceptions and Tips
- Visa-Free Nationalities: If your nationality is exempt (e.g., from Singapore or Maldives), minors enter freely for 30 days—no ETA needed, but carry consent docs.
- SAARC/Other Perks: Indian children under 12 get free visas; always check nationality-specific rules.
- At the Airport: Immigration at Bandaranaike (CMB) is strict on minors—delays possible without docs. Visa-on-arrival is an option, but slower for families.
- Overstay/Extensions: Same as adults (fines LKR 10,000+/day); extension up to 6 months.
- US/UK/EU Travelers: Aligns with home country rules—e.g., US CBP requires consent letters for minors leaving the US.
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