Apply for Sri Lanka ETA: Guide for Egyptian Citizens
Sri Lanka is one of the most adored South Asian countries. Be it the beautiful beaches, the pleasant climate, the delicious dishes, or the natural beauty, Sri Lanka has something for every type of traveler. In September 2024, over 1.4 million tourists visited Sri Lanka, making it one of the most well-liked tourist destinations worldwide. And with the Sri Lanka ETA for Egyptian Citizens, it has become easier than ever to enter the country and enjoy what it has to offer.
Since 2012, Sri Lanka has been offering Sri Lankan Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA, which allows a visitor to travel the country for a short duration. The list of countries eligible for Sri Lanka ETA includes Egypt. So if you are a national of Egypt, ETA is the perfect way to travel to Sri Lanka for a short-term visit.
What makes ETA so special is that its entire application process is online and you get the approval of your application online as well. This means you don't have to go anywhere to get this visa. You can get Sri Lanka ETA while relaxing at home with just a device and an internet connection.
What is Sri Lanka ETA?
Before you start packing your bags and looking for the application form for the ETA, you need to understand what an ETA is and how you can get it.
First, you need to understand that Sri Lanka ETA is an official travel authorization system. It lets you, an international visitor, enter the country without the need to send your documents to the embassy or a consulate. This online visa system is completely different from the traditional method, where an Egyptian citizen would have to visit the Sri Lankan Embassy to apply for a visa.
This makes Sri Lanka's ETA a highly convenient and cost-effective method of applying for a visa and entering the country.
Types of Sri Lanka ETA for Egyptian Citizens
There are three types of Sri Lanka ETA available for the Egyptians, as per their purpose of visit to Sri Lanka they can apply for the visa.
Sri Lanka Tourist ETA
If you want to travel to Sri Lanka for tourist activities and leisure, then you need to apply for Sri Lanka Tourist ETA. This visa allows you to:
- Go sightseeing and try Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Visit your family and friends.
- Enjoy cultural and tourism-related activities.
- Attend cultural events.
A tourism ETA is good for six months right from the date your application was approved. However, the time you spend in the country cannot go over 30 days.
Sri Lanka Business ETA
If you need to travel to Sri Lanka for a business conference or a meeting, then you can apply for a Sri Lanka Business ETA. This visa lets you:
- Attend conferences and/or workshops.
- Attend business meetings.
- Participate in cultural or business events.
- Attend a short-term training course.
The Sri Lanka Business ETA is also valid for six months but you can stay in the country for only 30 days. If you're an Egyptian passport holder who needs to visit the country for some other activities like meeting a political party, journalist, or NGO, the ETA cannot be used. In such a case, apply for a regular visa.
Sri Lanka Transit ETA
If you're on your way to another destination and need to transit through Sri Lanka, you can apply for a Sri Lanka Transit ETA. But the visa is applicable only if you're connecting flights departing 8 hours to 48 hours later.
If your transit is shorter than eight hours, there is no need for you to apply for a visa. On the other hand, if you are going to stay in the country longer than two days, you need to either apply for a tourist or a business ETA.
Documents Required for Sri Lanka ETA
As a passport holder of Egypt, you must have the following documents with you:
A Valid Passport: You must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months or more from the date you plan to enter Sri Lanka.
An Active Email Address: You will have to enter a working email ID in your application form. All the details regarding your Sri Lanka ETA application will be delivered to you via this email ID. So make sure you can use this email address and get notified when you get an email.
A Debit/Credit Card: You will need to pay an online fee before submitting the application form. Ensure that your credit/debit card is functioning.
You have to present the following documents at the Sri Lankan border during your entry:
- A copy of your approved Sri Lanka ETA
- A proof that you've got the monetary fund to pay for your time in Sri Lanka.
- A return ticket to Egypt or another location is also needed.
- In case you're planning to live with your friends or relatives, you will need to present an invitation letter from them.
- For business ETA, you will need to show proof of business or an invitation letter from the company you're working with.
Online Application Process for Sri Lanka ETA
- Visit Sri Lanka ETA Website.
- Fill the Application Form: Make sure to fill in all the information correctly and cross-check to ensure there are no mistakes.
- Double-Check All the Details: Again, this is extremely important because any mistake in your form can lead to delays or rejection of the application.
- Pay the Visa Fee: You will need a credit/debit card to make an online payment. You might get more payment options on some websites.
- Submit the application.
- Pay attention to the email containing the approval.
Top Tourist Places in Sri Lanka for Egyptian Citizens
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has ancient frescoes and an incredible view of the summit.
Polonnaruwa
This is an ancient city well known for its historical temples and other ruins that are very well preserved.
Kandy
Kandy is a cultural center that has beautiful and lush hills surrounding it. It is also known as the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Ella
Ella is a lovely hill station that is famous for its tree plantations and hiking trails.
Yala National Park
This national park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts.
If you're an Egyptian citizen and have to visit Sri Lanka, you are eligible to apply for Sri Lanka ETA. This guide contains all of the essential information you should know before beginning to fill out your ETA application form.
Make sure you have all the documentation together and then start filling the form - you will experience a faster and more seamless application process. And remember to apply for the right ETA according to your purpose; otherwise, you might have to face problems like delays or rejection of the application. Visit the Sri Lanka Visa Helpdesk if you'd like to have more information.
READ MORE:
Currently, there are eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. These historical sites range from historical cities to sacred shrines to beautiful woods and incredible caves. Find our more at UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Sri Lanka.
Check Eligibility for Sri Lanka eTA and apply for Sri Lanka eTA 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from In additional to Egyptian citizens, Estonian Citizens, Canadian Citizens, German Citizens, Japanese Citizens and Finnish Citizens can also apply online for Sri Lanka eTA.