Sri Lanka: New E-Visa Replaces Electronic Travel Authorization System

• New visa sub-categories. The eVisa applies to the following visa sub-categories, some of which the DOIE introduced for the purposes of this new visa system:
  • Tourist Visas (30 days Tourist Visa, Standard Double Entry Tourist Visa for six months; one-, two-, five- and ten-year Multiple Entry Tourist Visas); and
  • Business Visas (Standard Double Entry Business Visa for six months; one-, two- five- and ten-year Multiple Entry Business Visas).
  • Some applicants, based on their nationality, may be exempt from a visa.
• Cost. The eVisa costs vary depending on the visa type.
• Processing steps. Applicants must apply on the eVisa website, print out their emailed eVisa and present it to authorities at the Sri Lankan point of entry. Long-term tourist and business visa applicants no longer need to apply for Line Ministry approval prior to applying for the visa, as they previously did under the ETA.
• eVisa renewal. The DOIE intends to create an online platform for eVisa renewals, but until this occurs, applicants who have been granted an ETA before April 17, 2024 (under the previous visa system) will be able to renew their visas by submitting a physical visa application to the DOIE. Those who have been granted an eVisa after April 17, 2024 under this new online system will be unable to extend and will instead be required to leave Sri Lanka and re-enter under a new e-Visa.
• Restrictions. Applicants from Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, the Maldives, Nigeria, North Korea and Syria must apply for the eVisa online, but also must submit other required documents at the DOIE. Once approved, the visa will be issued as an eVisa.

The eVisa process is easier and faster than the ETA option, so eligible travelers will benefit from the replacement of systems.

The Sri Lankan government implemented this new eVisa system to attract more business travelers and tourists to the country. However, the system administrators have faced allegations of corruption regarding the appointment process, leading to a heated debate in the parliament, and calls for transparency and accountability. 

The Sri Lankan government announced that the Immigrant and Emigrant Act will be amended and, in the near future, the entire immigration system may be overhauled. This would likely occur only after the upcoming 2024 presidential election. We will report on related developments.