Sri Lanka ETA for UK Citizens 2026: Free 30-Day Tourist Visa Guide

Sri Lanka ETA for UK Citizens 2026: Free 30-Day Tourist Visa Guide

Planning a holiday in Sri Lanka with a British passport? Understanding the country's entry requirements before travelling can help you prepare your documents and avoid unnecessary application fees.

Since 25 May 2026, British nationals have been eligible to obtain a Sri Lanka tourist Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) free of charge for a stay of up to 30 days. However, free does not mean that an ETA is no longer required. Eligible travellers must still follow the official application process before arriving in Sri Lanka.

This guide explains the current Sri Lanka ETA requirements for UK citizens, how to apply online, how long the authorization is valid for, what documents you need and what to do if you plan to stay longer than 30 days.

Last reviewed: 21 October 2026
Destination: Sri Lanka
Target travellers: British passport holders visiting for tourism
Tourist ETA fee: US$0 for eligible UK nationals under the current free-ETA scheme
Standard stay: Up to 30 days, subject to the authorization granted
Official application website: https://www.eta.gov.lk/

Is the Sri Lanka Tourist ETA Free for UK Citizens in 2026?

Yes. According to Sri Lanka's official Electronic Travel Authorization website and UK government travel advice, British nationals are eligible for a free tourist ETA for up to 30 days under the scheme effective from 25 May 2026.

The main points to understand are:

• The tourist ETA application fee is currently US$0 for eligible British nationals under this scheme.
• You must still obtain the required ETA before travelling.
• The standard tourist authorization is valid for up to 30 days.
• A double-entry facility is permitted within the original 30-day validity period.
• If you wish to stay longer, you must follow the official visa extension procedure and pay any applicable extension fees.

These rules apply according to passport nationality and the applicable immigration scheme, not simply because someone lives in the UK or departs from a UK airport.

Official sources: Sri Lanka ETA official website and GOV.UK Sri Lanka entry requirements.

Who Is Eligible for the Free Sri Lanka ETA?

British nationals holding an eligible British passport can apply under the free 30-day tourist ETA scheme for purposes such as sightseeing and holidays, visiting friends and relatives, and other permitted tourist activities.

It is important to distinguish between British citizenship and UK residence. For example, a traveller living in the UK with a passport issued by another country may be subject to different ETA charges and entry conditions. Eligibility must be checked using the nationality of the passport that will be used for travel.

Sri Lanka's current official ETA notice also lists other eligible nationalities. If you are travelling on a passport other than a British passport, check the complete current list and rules on the official ETA website before applying.

What Is the Cost of a Sri Lanka ETA for UK Travellers?

Item	Current guidance
Eligible British national's tourist ETA for up to 30 days	US$0
Standard tourist stay	Up to 30 days
Visa extension beyond the authorized stay	Applicable official fees may apply
Third-party application assistance	Any private service fee is separate from the government ETA fee

The price above refers to the government tourist ETA fee under the current free scheme. It does not include travel insurance, flights, accommodation or other holiday expenses.

Be cautious when using websites that advertise visa application services. Some third-party websites charge for assistance even when an eligible traveller can apply through the official government portal free of charge. Always check the website address and the amount being requested before making a payment.

How to Apply for a Sri Lanka ETA Online

Eligible UK travellers should use Sri Lanka's official ETA website rather than relying on advertisements or unfamiliar visa websites.

Step 1: Open the Official ETA Website

Visit www.eta.gov.lk and navigate to the appropriate tourist ETA application.

Step 2: Complete Your Application

Enter the required information carefully, making sure your passport details and personal information match the travel document you intend to use.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Review the information before submitting the application. Eligible British nationals should follow the official process for the free tourist ETA scheme.

Step 4: Keep Your Acknowledgement

The official ETA system explains that applicants receive an acknowledgement after a successful submission. An acknowledgement is not necessarily the same as final approval.

Step 5: Check the Result

Check your application status through the official ETA system and retain a copy of the approval notice. If the authorities issue a referral notice, follow the instructions from Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration and Emigration.

Do not assume that an application has been approved simply because the form was submitted.

Passport Validity Requirements for Sri Lanka

For British citizens travelling on a full British citizen passport, GOV.UK states that the passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.

Before travelling, check the expiry date and make sure your passport is valid for the required period. If it does not meet the requirement, contact the appropriate passport authority before departure.

Also ensure that your ETA application uses the details of the passport you will present at immigration. If your passport changes after applying, seek advice from the official authorities before travelling.

What Documents Should You Have When Arriving in Sri Lanka?

For a smoother arrival, prepare the following documents and information:

• A passport that meets the applicable validity requirements.
• Your ETA approval notice or relevant authorization details.
• A confirmed return or onward ticket, where required.
• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay, if requested by immigration officials.
• Accommodation and travel details that help explain your visit, if requested.
• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country subject to Sri Lanka's yellow fever certificate requirement.

Carry an accessible electronic copy of your ETA approval and keep your important travel documents available when you arrive.

An approved ETA does not remove the need to satisfy the country's entry requirements. Final admission remains subject to the applicable immigration checks at the port of entry.

How Long Can UK Citizens Stay in Sri Lanka?

Under the current free tourist ETA scheme, eligible British nationals can obtain authorization for a stay of up to 30 days, subject to the approval granted.

The double-entry facility allows an eligible traveller to enter Sri Lanka a second time within the original 30-day validity period. The second entry does not automatically provide a completely new 30-day period; the remaining authorized period applies according to the official rules.

If you intend to visit another country during your trip and return to Sri Lanka, confirm that your ETA and travel dates fit within the applicable validity period before leaving.

Can You Extend Your Sri Lanka Tourist ETA Beyond 30 Days?

If you plan to stay in Sri Lanka for more than 30 days, check the official visa extension procedure before your permitted stay expires.

GOV.UK advises that travellers who plan to stay longer can apply for an extension online through Sri Lanka's official Immigration portal. An extension is subject to the applicable rules and fees, and it should not be assumed to be automatic.

Start by reviewing the current instructions on the official Sri Lanka Immigration online portal. Confirm the requirements, charges and permitted extension period directly with the authorities.

Do not overstay the period granted by your ETA. GOV.UK warns that overstaying can lead to immigration action, fines, deportation at your own expense, a travel ban or refusal of entry in the future.

Does Every Traveller Need to Check ETA Requirements?

Yes. Each traveller should check the entry rules that apply to their own nationality and travel circumstances, including children and family members.

Free-ETA eligibility may differ according to nationality, and other rules or exceptions may apply. Do not assume that every passport holder travelling with a British citizen automatically receives the same conditions.

When a family is travelling together, check each person's passport validity and applicable authorization requirements before departure.

What If You Are Only Transiting Through Sri Lanka?

Transit rules can differ from tourist entry rules. According to UK government guidance, an air passenger who is transiting through Sri Lanka within 24 hours and does not enter the country does not need a visa for that transit. Sri Lanka's High Commission also advises that a transit visa is not required when the passenger remains in the airport transit area and does not enter Sri Lanka.

If your transit requires leaving the airport, collecting baggage landside or staying in Sri Lanka, check the applicable ETA and entry requirements before travel. Confirm your itinerary and transit arrangements with your airline as well.

Official references: GOV.UK entry guidance and the Sri Lanka High Commission visa information.

Common Sri Lanka ETA Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming that free means no application: Eligible British nationals must still follow the official ETA procedure.
• Using the wrong website: Check the government domain before entering passport details or making a payment.
• Confusing residence with nationality: UK residents do not automatically qualify for the free ETA if their passport nationality falls under different rules.
• Travelling with an almost-expired passport: Check the six-month passport validity requirement before departure.
• Confusing an acknowledgement with approval: Retain the final approval notice and check your application status.
• Overstaying the authorized period: Apply for an extension through the official process if you intend to remain longer.
• Assuming entry is guaranteed: An ETA is not a guarantee of admission; you must still meet the applicable entry conditions.

Sri Lanka ETA Checklist Before Your Holiday

• Confirm that the rules apply to the nationality of your travel passport.
• Check the official free-ETA eligibility notice.
• Ensure that your passport meets the six-month validity requirement.
• Complete the ETA application through the official website.
• Save the acknowledgement and check for final approval.
• Prepare your return or onward travel details and evidence of sufficient funds, if requested.
• Check any extra requirements that apply to your itinerary or travel history.
• Review the latest government advice shortly before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sri Lanka ETA free for British citizens in 2026?

Yes. Under the scheme effective from 25 May 2026, eligible British nationals can obtain a tourist ETA free of charge for up to 30 days. They must still follow the official application process.

Do UK passport holders still need an ETA for Sri Lanka?

Yes. The current free scheme removes the applicable tourist ETA fee for eligible British nationals, but it does not remove the requirement to obtain the authorization.

How much does the Sri Lanka ETA cost?

The tourist ETA fee is US$0 for eligible British nationals under the current free scheme. Visa extensions and private third-party services may involve separate charges.

How long is the free Sri Lanka tourist ETA valid?

The scheme provides a tourist stay of up to 30 days, subject to the authorization granted. The double-entry facility operates within the original 30-day validity period.

Can I apply for the ETA after arriving in Sri Lanka?

The official ETA guidance advises intended travellers to apply and obtain the authorization before arrival. Follow the current official rules rather than relying on the possibility of obtaining permission after landing.

Can a non-British citizen living in the UK get the free ETA?

Not automatically. Eligibility is based on the applicable passport nationality and immigration rules, rather than UK residence alone. Check the current official country list.

What happens if I want to stay longer than 30 days?

Check the official visa extension process and applicable fees through Sri Lanka's Immigration portal before your permitted stay expires.

Official Sri Lanka ETA Resources

For the most reliable and up-to-date information, refer directly to the following government sources:

• Sri Lanka official ETA application website
• GOV.UK – Sri Lanka entry requirements for British citizens
• Sri Lanka High Commission – Tourist visa information
• Sri Lanka Immigration – Online services

Plan Your Sri Lanka Holiday with Fabloos Lanka Travels

Once your entry requirements are in order, Fabloos Lanka Travels can help you plan the rest of your holiday, from private airport transfers to tailor-made itineraries across Sri Lanka's cultural sites, hill country, wildlife destinations and beaches.

Explore our Sri Lanka travel guides and private tour options to plan a journey that matches your available time, interests and preferred travel style.

Fabloos Lanka Travels – Discover Sri Lanka Your Way.

Travel information notice: Entry and visa rules can change. This guide reflects the official information available at the time of review and is intended for general travel planning, not as a guarantee of authorization or entry. Always verify the latest requirements directly with Sri Lanka's official ETA website and the relevant government travel advice before departure.