Sri Lanka eVisa FAQ: Complete Guide to All Your Questions

Get comprehensive answers to all your Sri Lanka eVisa questions. This detailed FAQ covers requirements, application process, processing times, fees, travel tips, and everything you need to know about visiting Sri Lanka.

1. General Sri Lanka eVisa Questions

1.1. What is a Sri Lanka eVisa?

A Sri Lanka eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter Sri Lanka for tourism, business, or transit purposes. The eVisa system enables travelers to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate, making travel to Sri Lanka more convenient and accessible.

The Sri Lanka eVisa is linked to your passport and must be printed and presented upon arrival at Sri Lankan entry points. It's available in double entry and multiple entry options with stays of up to 30 days per entry.

1.2. Who needs a Sri Lanka eVisa?

Most foreign nationals require a Sri Lanka eVisa to enter Sri Lanka. This includes citizens from:

• •North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
• •Europe: All EU countries, United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland
• •Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea
• •Middle East: Most Middle Eastern countries
• •Africa: Most African countries
• •South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and most South American countries

Visa-Exempt Nationalities (Limited):

• •Citizens of Singapore and Maldives (30 days)
• •Seychelles nationals (30 days)
• •Some diplomatic passport holders

Important: Always verify your specific nationality's requirements using our eligibility checker before applying.

1.3. How long is a Sri Lanka eVisa valid?

Sri Lanka eVisas have different validity periods depending on the visa type:

• •Tourist eVisa (Double Entry): Valid for 180 days from issue date, double entry, up to 30 days per stay
• •Business eVisa (Multiple Entry): Valid for 180 days from issue date, multiple entries, up to 30 days per stay
• •Transit eVisa: Valid for 48 hours, single entry

The eVisa must be used within its validity period. Once you enter Sri Lanka, the immigration officer will determine the exact length of stay (up to 30 days per entry).

1.4. What are the different types of Sri Lanka eVisas?

Sri Lanka offers three main eVisa types:

1. Tourist eVisa (Double Entry)

• •Purpose: Tourism, temple exploration, beach holidays
• •Validity: 180 days from issue, double entry, up to 30 days per stay
• •Government Fee: $85 USD
• •Processing Time: 1-3 working days (normal), same day (urgent)

2. Business eVisa (Multiple Entry)

• •Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade exhibitions
• •Validity: 180 days from issue, multiple entries, up to 30 days per stay
• •Government Fee: $80 USD
• •Processing Time: 1-3 working days (normal), same day (urgent)

3. Transit eVisa (Single Entry)

• •Purpose: Airport transit and short layovers
• •Validity: 48 hours
• •Government Fee: $30 USD
• •Processing Time: 1-3 working days (normal), same day (urgent)

2. Application Process Questions

2.1. How do I apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa?

Applying for a Sri Lanka eVisa is straightforward with our platform:

Step 1: Visit our secure platform and select Sri Lanka eVisa Step 2: Choose your visa type (tourist, business, or transit) Step 3: Complete the online application form with accurate information Step 4: Upload all required documents (passport, photo, accommodation proof, etc.) Step 5: Review your application carefully Step 6: Pay the government fee and service charge securely online Step 7: Track your application status through our customer portal Step 8: Receive your approved eVisa via email as a PDF document

Our expert team reviews every application before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.

2.2. What documents do I need for a Sri Lanka eVisa?

Essential Documents:

1. •

   Valid Passport

   • •Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
   • •Must have at least one blank page for entry stamp
   • •Clear scan of the bio-data page
2. •

   Passport-Size Photograph

   • •Recent photo (within last 6 months)
   • •White or light-colored background
   • •Clear facial features, no glasses or head coverings
   • •JPEG format, minimum 600x600 pixels
3. •

   Travel Documentation

   • •Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
   • •Return or onward flight ticket
   • •Travel itinerary (recommended)
4. •

   Financial Proof

   • •Bank statements showing sufficient funds
   • •Credit card statements or traveler's checks
   • •Proof of employment or financial support

2.3. How long does Sri Lanka eVisa processing take?

Sri Lanka eVisa processing times:

• •Normal Processing: 1-3 working days
• •Urgent Processing: Same day (available for additional fee)

Processing times are estimates and may vary based on:

• •Application volume
• •Document quality and completeness
• •Security checks required
• •Peak travel seasons

Our expert review process helps ensure faster processing by catching errors before submission.

2.4. Can I expedite my Sri Lanka eVisa application?

Yes, urgent processing is available for Sri Lanka eVisa applications. This service can deliver your visa approval within the same day for an additional fee. Urgent processing is ideal for:

• •Last-minute travel plans
• •Emergency travel situations
• •Time-sensitive business trips
• •Unexpected travel opportunities

Contact our support team to request urgent processing for your application.

3. Fees and Payment Questions

3.1. How much does a Sri Lanka eVisa cost?

Sri Lanka eVisa fees vary by visa type:

• •Tourist eVisa (Double Entry): $85 USD (government fee)
• •Business eVisa (Multiple Entry): $80 USD (government fee)
• •Transit eVisa: $30 USD (government fee)

Additional Costs:

• •Service fee for professional processing assistance
• •Urgent processing fee (if applicable)
• •No hidden fees or surprise costs

All fees are clearly displayed before you submit your application.

3.2. What payment methods are accepted?

We accept multiple secure payment methods:

• •Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• •Debit cards with international usage
• •Bank transfers
• •Other accepted payment methods

All payments are processed through secure, encrypted channels to protect your financial information.

4. Travel and Entry Questions

4.1. Which airports can I use to enter Sri Lanka with an eVisa?

Sri Lanka eVisa holders can enter through:

• •Colombo (CMB): Bandaranaike International Airport
• •Colombo (RML): Ratmalana Airport
• •Mattala (HRI): Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
• •Designated seaports for cruise ship arrivals

Always carry your printed eVisa approval letter and valid passport when traveling.

4.2. Can I extend my Sri Lanka visa once in the country?

Yes, visa extensions are possible for valid reasons. To extend your Sri Lanka visa:

• •Visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration
• •Provide valid reasons for extension
• •Submit required documentation
• •Pay extension fees

Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and require valid justification.

4.3. Can I use my Sri Lanka eVisa for multiple entries?

Only if you applied for a multiple-entry eVisa. Double-entry tourist eVisas allow two entries. If you plan to leave Sri Lanka and return multiple times, you'll need:

• •A multiple-entry business eVisa (apply for this initially), or
• •A new double-entry tourist eVisa for additional visits

Planning multiple visits?

• •Apply for a multiple-entry eVisa from the start
• •Allow sufficient processing time between trips if applying separately
• •Consider our urgent processing for last-minute returns

4.4. What happens at the border when I arrive in Sri Lanka?

Upon arrival in Sri Lanka with your eVisa:

1. •Present your printed eVisa approval letter
2. •Show your valid passport (must match eVisa details)
3. •Answer immigration officer's questions if asked
4. •Receive entry stamp in your passport

The immigration officer will determine the exact length of stay (up to 30 days per entry).

5. Requirements and Eligibility Questions

5.1. Do children need separate Sri Lanka eVisas?

Yes, each traveler regardless of age needs their own Sri Lanka eVisa. This includes:

• •Infants and children
• •Minors traveling with parents
• •Family members traveling together

Additional requirements for minors:

• •Parental consent documentation may be required
• •Birth certificates for verification
• •Accompanying adult information

5.2. What are the passport requirements for Sri Lanka eVisa?

Your passport must meet these requirements:

• •Validity: At least 6 months remaining beyond your intended stay
• •Blank Pages: At least one blank page for entry stamp
• •Condition: Not damaged, torn, or defaced
• •Bio-data Page: Clear and readable for scanning

If your passport doesn't meet these requirements, renew it before applying for your Sri Lanka eVisa.

6. Travel Planning Questions

6.1. When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Peak Season (December to March):

• •Dry season on west and south coasts
• •Best weather for beach activities
• •Ideal for cultural triangle exploration
• •Peak tourist season with higher prices

East Coast Season (April to September):

• •Dry season on east coast
• •Good for hill country
• •Lower prices and fewer tourists
• •Still excellent weather

Monsoon Seasons:

• •Southwest Monsoon: May to September (affects west and south)
• •Northeast Monsoon: October to January (affects east and north)
• •Inter-monsoon: March-April, October-November

Considerations:

• •Peak season: Better weather, more crowds, higher prices
• •Low season: Some rain, lower prices, fewer tourists
• •Hill country: Pleasant year-round

6.2. What are the top destinations in Sri Lanka?

Cultural Triangle:

• •Sigiriya: Ancient rock fortress, UNESCO World Heritage
• •Anuradhapura: Ancient capital with sacred Buddhist sites
• •Polonnaruwa: Medieval capital with well-preserved ruins
• •Kandy: Cultural capital, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
• •Dambulla: Golden Temple with ancient cave paintings

Beach Destinations:

• •Galle: Colonial fort and historic charm
• •Bentota: Water sports and luxury resorts
• •Mirissa: Whale watching and relaxed atmosphere
• •Arugam Bay: World-class surfing destination
• •Tangalle: Secluded beaches and peaceful environment

Hill Country:

• •Ella: Scenic hill station with stunning views
• •Nuwara Eliya: Tea plantations and cooler climate
• •Kandy: Cultural heart with beautiful lake
• •Adam's Peak: Sacred mountain for pilgrimage

Wildlife:

• •Yala National Park: Best place to see leopards
• •Udawalawe: Elephant watching and conservation
• •Sinharaja: Rainforest biodiversity hotspot
• •Horton Plains: Cloud forests and World's End cliff

6.3. What currency is used in Sri Lanka?

• •Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
• •Credit Cards: Accepted in major cities and tourist areas
• •Cash: Preferred in markets and rural areas
• •ATMs: Available in cities and major towns
• •US Dollars: Sometimes accepted in tourist areas

6.4. Is Sri Lanka safe for tourists?

Sri Lanka is generally very safe for tourists. The country has:

• •Low crime rates in tourist areas
• •Friendly and welcoming people
• •Good infrastructure in major destinations
• •Reliable transportation systems

Safety Tips:

• •Exercise standard travel precautions
• •Keep valuables secure
• •Use reputable tour operators
• •Stay informed about local conditions
• •Respect local customs and traditions

7. Health and Vaccination Questions

7.1. What vaccinations do I need for Sri Lanka?

Recommended (Not Mandatory):

• •Routine vaccinations (measles, mumps, rubella, etc.)
• •Hepatitis A and B
• •Tetanus and typhoid
• •Japanese encephalitis (for some regions)
• •Rabies (for extended stays or animal interactions)

Important: Consult with a travel health specialist before your trip to Sri Lanka. Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from risk countries.

7.2. Do I need travel insurance for Sri Lanka?

While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for:

• •Medical emergencies and evacuation
• •Trip cancellations and interruptions
• •Lost or stolen belongings
• •Adventure activities
• •Emergency assistance services

Sri Lanka has good healthcare facilities in major cities, but medical costs can be high for visitors without insurance.

8. Cultural Considerations

8.1. What should I know about Sri Lankan customs and culture?

Cultural Guidelines:

• •Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples and religious sites
• •Remove Shoes: Before entering temples and some homes
• •Respect Religion: Buddhism is the majority religion, be respectful
• •Photography: Ask permission before photographing people
• •Tipping: Customary in restaurants and for services (10%)

Religious Sites:

• •Cover shoulders and knees at temples
• •Remove shoes before entering
• •Be quiet and respectful
• •Follow specific rules for each site

Social Etiquette:

• •Greetings: "Ayubowan" (may you live long) appreciated
• •Right Hand: Use for eating and greeting
• •Public Behavior: Avoid public displays of affection
• •Bargaining: Common in markets (be polite)

9. Why Choose United eVisa Services for Your Sri Lanka eVisa?

9.1. Expert Support and High Success Rate

• •98% Approval Rate: Our expert team ensures your application meets all requirements
• •24/7 Customer Support: Get help whenever you need it
• •Expert Document Review: Our specialists review every document before submission
• •Direct Relationships: We work directly with Sri Lankan immigration authorities

9.2. Transparent Pricing and Fast Processing

• •No Hidden Fees: Complete transparency in pricing
• •Fast Processing: Efficient handling of all applications
• •Urgent Processing: Same-day approval available
• •Secure Platform: Bank-level security protects your information

9.3. Proven Track Record

Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have successfully obtained their Sri Lanka visa through our platform.

10. Conclusion

This comprehensive FAQ covers all aspects of Sri Lanka eVisa applications. If you have additional questions, our expert support team is available 24/7 to assist you.

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