Apply for Sri Lanka Visa from UK
UK citizens traveling to Sri Lanka, whether to witness the beautiful landscapes or for any other purpose, need to hold a valid visa. However, with the introduction of the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), British nationals can now plan their visit to this beautiful island nation without the hassle of lengthy visa procedures.
However, to make your Sri Lanka ETA application process hassle-free, we have brought you all the important things that you must know before you apply for Sri Lanka ETA with a UK passport.
More about Sri Lanka e-Visa (eTA)
Introduced on January 1st, 2012, the Sri Lanka ETA has made getting a visa for Sri Lanka quicker and easier through an online process. In short, a Sri Lankan ETA is a digital visa system that acts as a permit for travelers to visit Sri Lanka. Simply put, it's an online approval that you must get before starting your trip to Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lankan ETA will be linked to your country's passport after approval. The approval typically takes 1 to 2 business days, although a priority service is available for those who need it sooner, with approval granted within one hour.
Do UK Citizens Need an ETA for Sri Lanka?
Yes, all UK citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka must obtain an ETA before their arrival. The ETA is a mandatory pre-approval that grants you permission to enter Sri Lanka, and it must be obtained online before you begin your journey.
Whether you plan to explore Sri Lanka's scenic landscapes, attend business meetings, or simply transit through the country, you'll need to apply for the appropriate ETA type. Without an ETA, UK citizens may be denied entry at the Sri Lankan border.
Types of ETA for UK Citizens
There are three main types of Sri Lanka ETAs available for UK citizens, each designed to cater to different travel needs:
Tourist ETA
The Tourist ETA is intended for UK citizens visiting Sri Lanka for leisure or tourism purposes. Once issued, this ETA is valid for 180 days, allowing travelers to enter the country within this period. After entering Sri Lanka, you can stay for up to 30 days. The Tourist ETA also permits one exit and re-entry within those 30 days, as long as the re-entry occurs within the initial 30-day period.
Business ETA
UK citizens coming to Sri Lanka for business-related operations must obtain a Business ETA. Like the Tourist ETA, it is valid for 180 days. Once you enter Sri Lanka, the Business ETA allows multiple entries within a 30-day period, provided that the final entry is made within 30 days of your initial arrival. People who might have to travel in and out of Sri Lanka for meetings, conferences, or other business obligations should use this ETA.
Transit ETA
Travelers passing through Sri Lanka on their way to another location are covered by the Transit ETA. This type of ETA is also valid for 180 days. However, it has a stay duration of up to 48 hours. Importantly, the Transit ETA does not permit you to leave the airport.
If your connecting flight is more than 48 hours away, you'll need to apply for a tourist or business ETA instead.
What Documents Are Required by UK Citizens for Sri Lanka ETA?
When applying for a Sri Lanka ETA, UK citizens will need to provide several essential documents and personal details to complete the application process. Here's a checklist of what you'll need:
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for a further six months from the day you entered Sri Lanka. The passport details you provide in your ETA application must match the passport you will use to travel.
Email Address: A valid email address is required, as all communication regarding your ETA, including the approval notification, will be sent via email.
Payment Method: Make sure you acquire a valid debit or credit card that works for international transactions.
Digital Passport Photo: While not always mandatory, it's advisable to have a digital copy of your passport's information page ready in case it's requested during the application process.
For UK citizens applying for Sri Lanka ETA, the above-mentioned documents and details make sure your ETA application is processed smoothly and without any delays.
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Sri Lanka just looks like a small island from an aerial view but for travelers, it has many attractions that need at least 2 weeks to explore. For wildlife lovers, culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and beachgoers, Sri Lanka has something to offer everyone. Save your Sri Lanka trip time from the start and apply for a Sri-Lankan tourist e-Visa right away. Read more at How Many Days Are Enough to Explore Sri Lanka.
How Can UK Citizens Apply for a Sri Lanka ETA?
Getting a Sri Lanka ETA is a hassle-free process that you can complete online in just a few simple steps. Here's what you need to do:
Step 1: Go to Online Sri Lanka Visa: Visit Online Sri Lanka Visa and click on Apply Visa Online button.
Step 2: Fill in the Application Form: In the Sri Lanka ETA application form, you must fill in your passport information along with contact details. Make sure you fill out this information very carefully.
Step 3: Select the Appropriate ETA Type: Based on the reason for your visit, whether it's for tourism, business, or just a stopover, choose the corresponding ETA category.
Step 4: Pay Sri Lanka Application Fee: With a valid debit or credit card that can be used for international transactions, you can pay your Sri Lanka ETA application fees. Know that different types of ETA may have different processing fees.
Step 5: Submit Your Sri Lanka ETA Application: Once you enter all the details correctly, submit your Sri Lanka ETA application and wait for approval. Once your Sri Lanka ETA gets approved (chances are it will, if you fill all the details correctly), you will receive an email confirming your Sri Lanka ETA request.
You will need to show this document to immigration officials when you arrive in Sri Lanka, so it is a good idea to print a copy and bring it with you.
UK Embassy Registration in Sri Lanka
While most trips to Sri Lanka are safe and trouble-free, it's always wise to take precautions. UK citizens are always recommended to register with the UK Embassy in Sri Lanka when they stay in the country during their trip.
Wondering how this registration will help you? It will keep you informed about local safety conditions. Also, it will be easier for officials to contact you in case of an emergency, either in Sri Lanka or back home.
You can opt to register with the embassy when applying for your Sri Lanka ETA. Simply select the UK Embassy Registration option on the payment page, and your details will be automatically sent to the embassy.
Now you know that applying for your Sri Lanka ETA as a UK citizen is a simple and quick process when you have all the basic knowledge about the application process. Also, keep an eye on further updates and regulations about the Sri Lanka ETA for UK citizens while planning your trip to this enchanting island.
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If you want to know more about the places to visit in Sri Lanka, check out the Must-See Places in Colombo, Sri Lanka so that you are able to explore the best and have an enjoyable vacation.
Apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from many countries including Canadian citizens, Georgian citizens, Japanese citizens and New Zealand 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.