Sri Lanka Revokes Mandatory ETA for Tourists – What It Means for Visitors

Published on November 2, 2025

In an exciting move for travellers, Sri Lanka has officially revoked the mandatory Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for short-stay visitors. This update, which came into effect on October 15, 2025, marks a significant shift in the country’s visa policy. The change is designed to simplify the process for tourists, especially those visiting for short trips, whether for tourism, business, or family visits.

Previously, visitors to Sri Lanka were required to apply for an ETA before entering the country. While the ETA system still remains active for certain types of travel, it is no longer mandatory for short stays, which is great news for tourists planning quick visits, especially those from nearby countries.

This development is expected to encourage more visitors, particularly from India, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, who are among the top tourist sources for the island nation. It’s also seen as an important step towards restoring confidence in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which has been working to recover from various economic and political challenges.

What Does the Removal of the ETA Requirement Mean?

The change means that short-stay visitors will no longer need to submit an online ETA application before entering Sri Lanka. For tourists who are traveling for tourism or business and planning to stay less than 30 days, this makes the entry process smoother and faster.

Instead of the online application process, visitors can enter the country with a valid passport and proceed with the standard immigration process at the Sri Lankan airport upon arrival. The change also applies to those entering via Sri Lanka’s international airports such as Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.

Who Does This Apply To?

This change primarily applies to short-stay visitors planning to stay for up to 30 days in Sri Lanka. It covers those visiting for:

• Leisure: Tourists traveling to explore Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches, wildlife, or cultural landmarks.
• Business: Professionals visiting for meetings, conferences, or short-term work assignments.
• Family Visits: Tourists visiting relatives or friends residing in Sri Lanka.

It’s important to note that long-term travelers, those staying for more than 30 days, or those with specific visa needs (such as students or workers) will still need to go through the regular visa process.

A Positive Change for Regional Tourists

The revocation of the mandatory ETA requirement is a strategic decision aimed at improving Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. India has been one of Sri Lanka’s largest sources of international visitors, and this policy shift is expected to make travel even easier for Indian tourists. By eliminating the additional step of applying for an ETA, Sri Lanka becomes a more attractive and accessible option for those looking for a quick holiday or business trip without the hassle of visa applications.

For other regional tourists, such as those from the Middle East and Southeast Asia, the move simplifies their travel plans. Many of these travellers frequently visit Sri Lanka for leisure, and this change will encourage even more visits.

Sri Lanka’s Tourism Recovery: A Boost to the Economy

Tourism is a critical part of Sri Lanka’s economy, contributing a significant percentage to its GDP. The island nation, known for its lush landscapes, ancient temples, and pristine beaches, has long been a popular destination for international tourists. However, in recent years, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry has faced multiple setbacks, including political unrest, economic struggles, and global events that disrupted travel.

By removing the ETA requirement, the government hopes to increase the number of tourists coming to the country, particularly from India—Sri Lanka’s top market. According to the Sri Lankan Ministry of Tourism, this change is expected to increase the flow of regional tourists, who are already familiar with the country’s offerings, and potentially boost overall visitor numbers.

Additionally, with Sri Lanka’s competitive advantage as a nearby holiday destination, tourists from neighboring countries can now plan spontaneous trips to Sri Lanka without worrying about lengthy visa processes.

What to Keep in Mind for Future Travel

While the revocation of the ETA for short stays is a positive move for tourists, there are still some important points to remember when traveling to Sri Lanka:

• Visa Exemptions: Ensure that your nationality is exempt from the ETA requirement before traveling. Some countries might still need an ETA or a visa to enter Sri Lanka.
• Travel Insurance: As always, it’s recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and trip cancellations.
• Health and Safety Regulations: Be sure to stay updated on any health protocols or entry requirements related to COVID‑19 or other health concerns. Always check the official Sri Lankan government website or with your airline before traveling.
• Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure date. If you’re visiting for more than 30 days, you’ll need to apply for a regular visa.

The Bigger Picture: Rebuilding the Tourism Sector

The move to ease the entry process for tourists is part of a larger effort by the Sri Lankan government to revitalize the country’s tourism industry. Alongside other measures to improve infrastructure and boost international marketing efforts, this change in visa policy could be one of the key drivers for the recovery of the tourism sector.

Conclusion

The removal of the mandatory ETA for short‑stay visitors is a game-changer for Sri Lanka, making the country more accessible and attractive to regional tourists. With India as a significant contributor to the country’s tourism economy, this change simplifies travel, removing barriers and reducing the complexity of planning a visit.

As Sri Lanka continues to rebuild its tourism industry, the ease of entry combined with its unique cultural and natural offerings positions it as an increasingly appealing destination. Whether you’re visiting for a few days of relaxation on the beach, to explore ancient history, or to do business, Sri Lanka’s welcoming approach is sure to make your visit more convenient.

So, if you’ve been thinking of a quick getaway to explore Sri Lanka’s wonders, now is the perfect time to pack your bags and go!