Data verified
India passport holders: Visa-Free entry for Sri Lanka. Fee: USD 50 (~USD 50). Processing: On arrival / 1-2 working days (ETA). Indicative only — always verify with the official mission before applying.
Overview
VISA-FREE entry for Indians since Apr 2024 (1-year pilot extended)! Indians can enter visa-free for 30 days (double-entry). SAARC member — strongest South Asian bilateral arrangement. Direct flights from 10+ Indian cities to Colombo/Jaffna.
Visa types: Visa-free entry (Tourist 30 days, double-entry — pilot since 2024); ETA (Tourist for longer stays, USD 50 double-entry 30 days); Visa-on-Arrival at airports; Tourist Visa (embassy multi-entry); Business Visa; Work Visa; Student Visa; Family/Spouse; Transit (4-hour free transit); Diplomatic.
Fees & funds
Stay & validity
Validity: 30 days visa-free. Max Stay: 30 days per entry (extendable in-country).
Extension possibleYes
Overstay penalty: Per-day fine + possible re-entry ban — verify with destination immigration authority
How to apply
Requirements
Passport & photo
Required documents: Valid passport (6+ months); For visa-free: return ticket + hotel booking + funds (USD 50/day); For ETA (longer stays): online application via eta.gov.lk; Aadhaar + PAN; Travel insurance recommended; For Business: Sri Lankan entity invitation; For Buddhist Pilgrimage (Kandy, Anuradhapura): tour operator booking helpful.
Visa types (1)
VISA-FREE entry for Indians since Apr 2024 (1-year pilot extended)! Indians can enter visa-free for 30 days (double-entry). SAARC member — strongest South Asian bilateral arrangement. Direct flights from 10+ Indian cities to Colombo/Jaffna.
Common rejection reasons
Common IN rejections (VERY LOW rate for Indians): (1) Past Sri Lanka overstays; (2) Insufficient funds; (3) Inadequate accommodation proof; (4) Economic crisis aftermath affecting services; (5) Northern/Eastern province travel restrictions (post-civil war legacy); (6) LTTE-era political sensitivity for some Tamil Nadu applicants; (7) Buddhist pilgrimage purpose considered legitimate; (8) Indian Tamil/Buddhist tourist flow is largest single market.
Good to know