Sri Lanka Halts Mandatory ETA Rule, Supporting Tourism Growth

Published on October 31, 2025

As of today, international travelers do not need any more to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization or ETA for Sri Lankan ETA applications prior to embarking on a journey to Sri Lanka. The order comes just a few weeks after the order dated October 15th went into effect. Ever since then, the Directorate General of Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration has instituted the policy which clearly highlights the reason for travel does not need to be clarified prior to the ETA approval anymore. Travelers are free to travel for tourism, business or any other purposes. The authorities believe this will help boost the tourism industry as Sri Lanka heads into the business of its tourism season.

What This Means for Tourists

The suspension of the ETA requirement has significant implications for travellers planning to visit Sri Lanka. Previously, under the new rule, all short-stay visitors, including those on business or leisure trips, were required to secure an ETA before boarding their flight. The measure was initially introduced to streamline the entry process but faced backlash due to the potential disruption to travel plans.

Now, with the reversal of the mandate, international tourists can continue visiting Sri Lanka as they did before the introduction of the new ETA requirement. The country’s immigration policies have returned to their previous state, and visitors can obtain their ETA upon arrival if needed. This change is particularly welcomed by travellers who have already booked their trips or planned to visit Sri Lanka at short notice.

ETA Process Remains Unchanged

While the mandatory pre-departure ETA has been suspended, the overall visa issuance process remains largely unaffected. Tourists who wish to apply for an ETA can still do so via the official Sri Lankan government website, eta.gov.lk. Those arriving in Sri Lanka may also continue to obtain their ETAs on arrival, ensuring that there are no major disruptions to the entry process.

The government has also highlighted that other procedures regarding visa issuance remain unchanged, and travellers can expect the same level of service they received before October 15, 2025. With the suspension of the pre-departure ETA requirement, Sri Lanka continues to facilitate travel for foreign visitors while prioritising the simplicity and convenience of the entry process.

Boosting Tourism Amid Regulatory Changes

This suspension of the ETA mandate is seen as part of a larger effort by the Sri Lankan government to revive the country’s tourism industry. Sri Lanka’s tourism sector had been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent regulatory changes. Now, with the return of more flexible travel regulations, authorities are optimistic that international tourism will see a resurgence.

In addition to the suspension, there is also a discussion about introducing an ETA fee exemption for nationals of 33 countries. This potential policy shift is part of the government’s broader strategy to attract more international tourists and revitalise the sector. Officials have indicated that this initiative could be rolled out in the next month or two, further simplifying travel to Sri Lanka and reducing the financial burden on tourists.

What’s Next for Sri Lanka’s Tourism?

Sri Lanka’s decision to revoke the mandatory ETA requirement demonstrates the government’s commitment to making the island a more accessible destination for tourists. As international travel continues to recover and grow, the country is taking proactive steps to stay competitive in the global tourism market.

The suspension of the ETA rule, combined with the potential exemption from ETA fees, signals that Sri Lanka is serious about attracting more visitors and encouraging tourism-based activities. The government’s focus on revamping the tourism sector is aimed at enhancing the traveller experience while boosting the local economy.

Overview

Relaxing the eta requirements for selected countries is a step in the right direction for the tourism sector in world’s 66th most populated country, Sri Lanka. S with the country’s current expenditure-induced immigration policies, Sri Lanka trips can be planned with relative ease now. Visitors from these countries with free e- visas will definitely find Sri Lanka attractive with the newly implemented e-visa non-fee requirements. Taking all this into consideration, Sri Lanka is once again capturing the attention of world’s tourists.