Sri Lanka ETA for Citizens with Dual Nationality
Are you a dual citizen planning to visit Sri Lanka? If you're wondering about the visa requirements, the good news is that you might not have to go through too much trouble. You may qualify for a much easier ETA. Let's have a look at what the Sri Lanka ETA is and what you can do if you have dual nationality.
What is Dual Citizenship?
Before we get into the details of the ETA process, let's clarify what dual citizenship means in the context of Sri Lanka:
Dual citizenship, which is also known as dual nationality or double nationality, is allowed in Sri Lanka. This means that you can hold dual citizenship with another nation and Sri Lanka.
There are two types of Sri Lankan dual citizenship:
Sri Lankan Dual Citizenship Resumption
People who have stopped being citizens of Sri Lanka after becoming citizens of another country and would like to become citizens of Sri Lanka again.
Sri Lanka Dual Citizenship Retention
People who want to keep their Sri Lankan citizenship even after receiving citizenship from another country.
Do Dual Citizens Need an ETA for Sri Lanka?
If you hold dual citizenship, one of which is Sri Lankan, you do not need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or visa to visit the country. This applies to both types of Sri Lankan dual citizenship mentioned above.
How to Enter Sri Lanka as a Dual Citizen?
If you're a dual citizen planning to visit Sri Lanka, follow these steps:
Use Your Foreign Passport: When traveling to Sri Lanka, you can use your foreign passport.
Carry Your Dual Citizenship Certificate: You must have a printout of your Dual Citizenship Certificate granted by Sri Lankan authorities.
Present Documents at Immigration: At the Colombo Airport immigration counter, show your foreign passport along with a copy of your Dual Citizenship Certificate.
Get an Endorsement: Getting the Holder is a Dual Citizen endorsement on your foreign passport is advised for any further visits. When visiting Sri Lanka, you can obtain this from the immigration office in Battaramulla.
What If I am a Dual Citizen But Not in Sri Lanka?
If you hold dual citizenship but neither of your nationalities is Sri Lankan, here's what you need to know:
Most foreign nationals, including those who have dual citizenships other than Sri Lankan, need to have a Sri Lankan ETA or a visa based on the passport they plan to use for entry.
One Exception: If one of your nationalities is from the Maldives, Seychelles, or Singapore, you don't need a visa or an ETA.
How to Apply for Sri Lanka ETA (If Required)
If you find out that you need an ETA, here's a quick guide to applying:
- Visit a Sri Lanka ETA website.
- Fill the application form with both your passport and personal details.
- Pay the processing fee via credit/debit card.
- Wait for approval, which usually takes about two working days to get approved.
- Receive your ETA via email.
Remember, your ETA will be valid for only 30 days from your date of arrival and can be extended up to 6 months.
Final Tips for Dual Citizens Traveling to Sri Lanka
- Always carry both of your passports when traveling.
- Keep a copy of your Dual Citizenship Certificate with you.
- If you're using your non-Sri Lankan passport, it must be valid/active for at least 6 months following your planned stay.
- Since laws can change, be sure to check the most recent travel advisories and entry requirements before departing on your trip.
If you have any other questions regarding Sri Lanka ETA, visit the Sri Lanka Visa Online Helpdesk.
Apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from Thailand, Canada, Germany, Japan and Australia 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.