Sri Lanka ETA Photo Requirements and Specifications

Updated on Sep 24, 2024 | Sri Lanka e-Visa

Are you thinking of a trip to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka? Before you head out the door and book your flight, there's an important step you must take to get your Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).Let's have a look at all the important Sri Lanka ETA photo requirements and specifications so your application process goes smoothly.

Why Does Your Photo Matters?

Your photo is a crucial part of your Sri Lanka ETA application because it's used to identify you at the border. This means you must get it right to ensure that it is approved. A photo that doesn't meet the requirements could cause your application to be postponed or even denied.

Let's see what these specifics are so your photo is perfect:

General Photo Requirements

Here are the basic rules for your Sri Lanka ETA photo:

  • You need to submit digital with your application.
  • It needs to be a recent picture taken within the last six months.
  • It must have color (can't be black and white).
  • The background has to be of plain white color with no shadows.
  • You should be facing straight at the camera and have a neutral expression.
  • It must be clear and the focus must be on your entire face.
  • The image should have sufficient contrast to be clear.

Size and Quality Specifications

Here are the technical details:

  • The photo size must be 35 mm wide and 45 mm high.
  • The height of your head in the photo has to be between 32mm and 36mm (from chin to top of head or hair).
  • The top of the picture and the crown of your head should be separated by 3 mm.
  • The minimum resolution for the image is 600 dpi/ dots per inch.

What to Wear and How to Pose?

When taking your photo for the Sri Lanka ETA, keep these points in mind:

  • Wear what you normally would, but avoid white clothes as they may blend into the background
  • Avoid wearing headgear or spectacles (religious exemptions may apply).
  • Keep your mouth closed without showing any teeth
  • Your eyebrows should not be raised or squinted; both eyes should be open normally.
  • Don't smile, laugh, or frown
  • Keep your head straight and facing the camera - no tilting or turning

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Some of the most common mistakes people make that lead to photo rejection are:

  • They submit a photo that's older than 6 months.
  • They use filters or edit their photos.
  • They have shadows on their faces or in the background.
  • They wear sunglasses or tinted glasses in the photo.
  • They have a busy or colored background.
  • They show facial expressions or smiles in the photo.
  • They turn or tilt their head.

Special Requirements for Children and Infants

If you're traveling with children or infants, keep these points in mind:

  • Each child, including newborns, must have their own photo for the ETA application.
  • The photo must not have any toys, accessories, or other people in it.
  • For infants, make sure their face is visible and they're looking at the camera.

Taking Your Own Photo vs. Professional Photos

Although it's possible to take your own photo for the Sri Lanka ETA application, it can be difficult to meet all the requirements. For the best results, get your photo taken professionally. Many photo studios and some post offices offer passport photo services that will meet Sri Lanka's ETA requirements.

If you do decide to take the photo yourself, make sure to use a plain white wall as a background and that you have even lighting to avoid shadows. Also, your face and ears have to be easily visible.

Before submitting the application and the photo, double-check that the photo meets all the criteria. If you're unsure, it's always better to get a new photo taken rather than risk having your application delayed or rejected. If you need further assistance with the Sri Lanka ETA, visit the Sri Lanka Visa Online Helpdesk.

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It is extremely important for all applicants to make themselves aware of the documentation requirements for Sri Lanka eVisa before they start applying for one as it will enable them to enjoy a smooth and swift application process.


Check Eligibility for Sri Lanka e-Visa and apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from Oman, China, Brazil, Thailand and Greece can apply online for Sri Lanka e-Visa.