Sri Lanka ETA Printing Requirements and Guidelines
If you're planning to travel to Sri Lanka, you might already be aware of Sri Lanka ETA. If you're eligible for the ETA, you can apply for it online without any hassle and get approval via email. But what are the things you need to know and do after your application has been approved?
This blog will help you know the rules and guidelines you need to follow to enter Sri Lanka.
Some Important Information About Sri Lanka ETA
Before we move any further, below is some important information related to Sri Lanka ETA that you must know:
Sri Lanka ETA is an electronic travel authorization. It is only valid for the following travel purposes - tourism, business, transit, medical treatment, or attending conferences and workshops. If you need to travel to Sri Lanka for some other purpose, you'll have to apply for a standard visa.
The entire application process for Sri Lanka ETA is done online. There is no need for you to go to an embassy or consulate.
If you are from an eligible country, you should apply for a Sri Lanka ETA at least a week (or more) before your planned date of departure. This way you'll have time if there is a delay in approval or if you need to correct your application.
If you have a pre-approved ETA, you'll automatically get a 30-day visa when you arrive in Sri Lanka.
When you arrive in Sri Lanka, the border authorities will first verify if you've received Sri Lanka ETA and if it is pre-approved only then will you be allowed to enter the country. You might be required to present a printed copy of the email confirming the ETA during this verification.
Some of the most frequently asked questions concerning printing ETAs for Sri Lanka are listed below.
How Do You Get the ETA Approval?
After your application is approved, all the information regarding your ETA will be shared with you through the email address you shared in your application form. If your application has been approved, you will get an email regarding it, and your ETA approval letter will be attached to it.
What Information Does the Approval Letter Contain?
Your ETA approval letter has important information that includes:
- Your ETA number
- The date your ETA was issued
- The type of visit you have applied for single, double, or multiple.
- The expiration date of the ETA
This information is extremely helpful for the border authorities to verify your ETA. If you keep the printed copy of the approval letter with you, they'll be able to check your permit quickly. This will make the entire process much easier and faster than you'd think.
Why Do You Need to Print Your ETA for Sri Lanka?
Although your ETA is electronically connected to your passport, you may be asked to show your ETA approval letter at the port. This is why printing your ETA for Sri Lanka is extremely useful and is highly recommended. This paper copy can make your entry verification quicker and stress-free.
So it's best to print the ETA approval letter you received by email and carry it with your passport that you used to fill out the application form.
How Do You Print the ETA Approval Letter?
When your Sri Lanka ETA is approved, you will get an email that has an attached PDF file of your approval letter. You can download this file onto your phone or computer and then print it out using the printer connected to the device.
Should the ETA Printout be in Black and White or Color?
It does not matter if your Sri Lanka ETA printout is colored or black and white. As long as the important information in the printout, like the passport details and the ETA number, is clearly visible, the color does not matter. But you must make sure that it is clear for anyone who reads it or the printout will be useless.
Would You Need More Than One Copy of the Sri Lanka ETA?
You should have at least one printout of your Sri Lanka ETA approval letter so you can present it to the border authorities when asked. Other than this, it is a good idea to have an additional printout in case you lose one of the ETA copies. You can keep a copy of it in your passport in the hand luggage, so you can easily take it out.
When Must the ETA Printout Be Shown?
You can be asked to show a copy of the Sri Lanka ETA when you're entering the country. It is used as proof of approval and helps with verification and comparison with the online status of your ETA.
Carrying a printout of the ETA approval letter can prove to be more hassle-free than trying to look for it on your mobile or tablet. You should carry the following document with you to make the entire entry process quick and comfortable:
- Printed letter of ETA approval for Sri Lanka
- A passport that is good for the next six months after the date of arrival
- A return ticket
- Evidence that you have enough money for the trip
When you have all these documents with you, it can save you from delay and in case there is any technical issue.
Here are all the documents you need when applying for Sri Lanka ETA.
Is It Required to Carry the ETA Printout with You While in Sri Lanka?
When you arrive in Sri Lanka, if you have a pre-approved ETA, you'll be granted a 30-day visa for tourism, business, or two days of transit quickly.
After this, the approval letter is no longer needed. You'll not be asked to show them after you have entered the country, but you can keep an extra copy of the ETA and use them. It has information that can be useful for you.
Sri Lankan ETA is valid for two or more visits, depending on the purpose, both business and tourism. You'll need to show this printed copy of Sri Lanka ETA, so remember to keep it with you during each entry.
If you're traveling to Sri Lanka for tourism, don't forget to visit these incredible cities.
Now that you're aware of what to do after the approval of your application and how to enter Sri Lanka with the printout of your ETA approval copy, you are sure to have a stress-free and convenient experience.
If you have more concerns and you're looking for answers, just visit the 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 UK 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.