Sri Lanka Entry Requirements and Travel Advice for UK Citizens
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka can be exciting and interesting. But if you want your trip to be smooth and hassle-free, there are some things that you must be mindful of. If you're a citizen of the UK, there are some specific entry requirements that you'll need to take care of. To help you enter Sri Lanka easily.
This blog carries not just all the requirements you need to know but also some important travel advice.
Understanding the Sri Lanka eTA
Electronic Travel Authorization (or eTA) of Sri Lanka is a digital visa system, implemented in January 2012, that has made the entire system of visiting Sri Lanka a lot easier. With the Sri Lanka eTA option, you can easily fill out the application form online and get approval to travel to Sri Lanka for tourism, business, transit, medical treatment, or attending conferences and workshops.
Your eTA will be digitally connected to your passport upon approval, making entry into Sri Lanka simpler.
Types of Sri Lanka eTA Available
There are several types of Sri Lanka eTA available, depending on your purpose of travel:
Tourist eTA
If you want to visit Sri Lanka for tourism, sightseeing, or to visit your friends or family, you need a tourist eTA. This visa lets you stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days for each entry and is valid for two entries within 180 days.
Business eTA
This visa is specially designed for people who travel the country for business purposes. So if you have to attend meetings, conferences, or maybe a workshop, then you need to apply for a business eTA. With this eTA you can enter the country multiple times and stay a maximum of 30 days per visit. It is also valid for 180 days, starting with the issue date.
Transit eTA
If you're just passing through Sri Lanka on your way to another country and want to explore the country for more than 8 hours,you need to apply for a Transit eTA. You can typically stay for up to 48 hours within 180 days with this visa.
Applying for a Sri Lankan eTA
Application Process
Applying for an eTA is quick and can be easily filled online. Follow these steps to apply:
Visit the eTA Application Website: Head to the Sri Lankan eTA application website.
Select Your Visa Type: Choose between Tourist, Business, or Transit eTA based on the purpose of your visit.
Complete the Application Form: Enter all the details, passport details, travel information, and more. Make sure that every bit of detail you enter is accurate to prevent rejection or delays.
Upload the important Documents: You will need to upload a scanned copy of your passport and a recent passport-sized photograph.
Payment: Use the online payment option to cover the processing fee. The fee differs based on the type of eTA you apply for.
Submit the Application: Double check every detail carefully before submitting the application.
Receive Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email with either the approval letter or with a link to complete any remaining details if necessary.
Get Your eTA: Your eTA will be processed and sent to you via email as a PDF file. Make a copy to take with you on your travels.
Processing Time
A Sri Lanka eTA typically takes 24 to 72 hours to process. But it is best to apply at least five days or more before your travel date to avoid issues if there are any unexpected delays.
Documents Required for Sri Lanka eTA Application
When you're applying for a Sri Lankan ETA, you must have the following documents:
Passport: Your UK passport should be valid for a minimum of six months from the date you have selected to enter Sri Lanka.
Digital Passport Photo: The photo you upload should be recent. It should be a maximum of six months old. The photo has to be clear and with a white background.
Payment Method: To pay your application fee, you'll probably have the option of a debit or credit card, but the website might offer more payment options.
Email Address: The email address you share in your eTA application for Sri Lanka should be working and accessible to you at all times. Any information related to the application will be sent to you through this email, including the approval letter.
Important Travel Tips
Check Your ETA Status
Once you've submitted your eTA application, you can track its status online using the reference number provided in the confirmation email.
Carry Printed Copies of the Approval Letter
Although your eTA will be linked to your passport, it is better to carry a printed copy of your eTA when traveling. When you arrive, immigration officials in Sri Lankan airports may ask to see it.
Extension and Overstay
If you want to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days, you need to apply for an extension before your eTA expires, because overstaying is illegal and can result in fines or other penalties.
Health and Safety Precautions
Make sure that you have proper travel insurance. You can consult with a travel health specialist for any vaccinations or health precautions required before visiting Sri Lanka.
Yellow Fever Vaccination
If you visited a country affected by yellow fever before arriving in Sri Lanka, you must carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Common Issues and Solutions
Incorrect ETA Information
In case you notice a mistake in your eTA, you should reach out to the visa service provider immediately. You might have to reapply the application with corrections.
Lost or Stolen Passport
In case your passport with a valid eTA is lost or stolen, report it immediately and apply for a new eTA with your new passport details.
Visa Rejection
Sometimes your application can get rejected. If this happens, check the reason for the refusal and reapply with corrected or additional information if needed.
Regional Risks and Travel Advice
Travel Advisories
It is a good idea to check the latest travel advisories from the UK government before you travel to the country. From here, you can get the latest information related to safety, health risks, and other important travel information.
Regional Risks
Political Unrest: Sometimes, Sri Lanka has some political unrest. So, stay informed about the local situation in the country and avoid areas of unrest.
Natural Disasters: Floods and tsunamis are quite common natural disasters that can strike Sri Lanka. Be on the lookout for weather updates and follow instructions from the local authorities in case of emergencies.
Health and Safety
Vaccinations: Before leaving the UK, find out if Sri Lanka requires any vaccination certification. Routine vaccinations are generally enough, but it's best to talk to a travel health specialist.
Travel Insurance: Get proper travel and health insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses and trip disruptions.
With all this information, you'll be completely prepared for your visit to Sri Lanka. If you are searching for more answers related to Sri Lanka eTA for a UK citizen, visit Sri Lanka Visa Online Helpdesk.
Check your eligibility for for Sri Lanka eTA and apply 3 (three) days in advance of your flight. Citizens from many countries including Canadian citizens, Georgian citizens, US citizens and Belgian citizens can apply online for Sri Lanka e-Visa. Travelers from eligible countries can enjoy a smooth and convenient entry into the country for various purposes.