Sri Lanka Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements for Australian & New Zealand Travellers

(March 2026 Update)

Sri Lanka is open to international visitors, including travellers from Australia and New Zealand, with straightforward entry requirements.

This guide provides a general overview of the current Sri Lanka entry requirements, for Australian & New Zealand passport holders, including visa information, passport validity, and travel recommendations.


Passport Requirements

All travellers must hold a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.

You may also be required to show proof of onward or return travel.


Sri Lanka Visa Requirements (ETA)

Australian and New Zealand passport holders are required to obtain a visa for travel to Sri Lanka.

The easiest way to do this is by applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before departure.

  • Apply via the official website: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
    • Be cautious, there maybe some “scam websites” for Sri Lankan Visa applications, be sure to use only the official Sri Lankan Government Site
    • Follow the instructions on the official visa application site.
  • Cost: Approximately USD $50 per person (subject to change)
  • Processing time: Typically within 72 hours (Its often much quicker)
  • Valid for: Tourist stays of up to 30 days (extensions may be possible locally)

Other options include applying at a Sri Lankan mission overseas mission or on arrival at the airport. However Applying on line prior to arrival is the best option for most tourists.

Important:
We strongly recommend applying only via the official Sri Lankan Government website to avoid unnecessary third-party fees and scams.

Have your passport/s at hand when applying

All ETA holders should be able to prove:

(i) A round trip ticket to show at the port of entry in Sri Lanka (only if you are traveling by air).
(ii) Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Sri Lanka.


Health & Vaccination Requirements

As of the latest update, there are no COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for entry into Sri Lanka.

Travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations and seek medical advice prior to travel if required.


Travel Insurance for Sri Lanka

Travel insurance is not mandatory for entry into Sri Lanka (To obtain a visa), however it is highly recommended AND it is a condition of booking with Sri Lanka & Beyond, that you are adequately insured for the duration of your trip. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellation, medical requirements, luggage and additional expenses. The choice of insurer is yours. We strongly suggest you purchase insurance at the time you pay your deposit. This is because cancellation fees and charges are payable from that time.

Your policy should provide adequate cover for:

  • Medical expenses and hospitalisation
  • Trip cancellation or disruption
  • Loss or theft of personal belongings

Important Travel Information & Disclaimer

  • Visa fees and travel insurance are not included in your tour price.
  • Sri Lanka & Beyond does not receive any payment, commission, or incentive in relation to visa applications.

This information is provided as a general guide only and is based on information available at the time of writing.

Entry requirements, visa conditions, and health regulations may change at any time without notice. While we make every effort to ensure the information provided is accurate and up to date, Sri Lanka & Beyond does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

It is the responsibility of each traveller to:

  • Ensure they hold a valid passport with sufficient validity
  • Obtain the correct visa and travel documentation
  • Confirm all entry requirements with relevant authorities prior to departure

Travellers should also check directly with:

  • Their airline(s)
  • Any transit countries
  • Official government websites

to ensure compliance with all applicable travel requirements.

Sri Lanka & Beyond accepts no liability for any loss, delay, cost, or disruption arising from incorrect or incomplete travel documentation, or from changes to entry requirements.