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Sri Lankan Visa for UAE Residents

September 3, 2024 – By adminuaed

Sri Lanka Flag in Map

Sri Lanka is a great place for a holiday destination and other purposes. However, it requires a visa for people from several places, such as the UAE. Here is a comprehensive guide on how you can apply for a Sri Lankan Visa as a UAE resident.

Types of Visas

Here are the various Sri Lankan visa types:

  • Tourist Visa
  • a) Tourist Visa for Short Stays
  • (b) Tourist Visa for Extended Stays
  • Business Visa
  • Transit Visa
  • Diplomatic and Official Visa
  • Journalist Visa
  • Residence Visa
  • (a) Work Visa
  • (b) Family Visa
  • (c) Investor Visa
  • (d) Student Visa
  • (e) Religious Visa
  • (f) Retirement Visa
  • (g) Digital Nomad Visa
  • Visit Visa
  • Transit Visa

1. Tourist Visa

If you plan to travel for any of these reasons, you need a tourist visa:

  • Sightseeing, vacations, trips, or just relaxing
  • Visiting friends or family
  • Receiving medical care, including Ayurveda treatments and yoga
  • Joining sports events, competitions, or cultural activities

You or someone else can apply for this visa online at www.srilankaevisa.lk

a) Tourist Visa for Short Stays

For visits to Sri Lanka lasting under 30 days, you or someone else can apply for a visa online using the ETA website at www.eta.gov.lk. It’s a good idea to carry a copy of the ETA approval notice to show at the Sri Lankan entry point.

Anyone applying, except children under 12, must pay a processing fee online with a debit or credit card.

If you prefer the Consulate General to handle your ETA application or can’t complete it online due to technical issues, you can submit a filled-out application form along with the necessary documents to the Sri Lankan Consulate General in the UAE for processing.

Requirements

  • An ETA application form
  • Your original passport
  • Copies of the passport’s face page and UAE residence visa page
  • Two recent color passport photos (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm or 2” x 2”)
  • A return air ticket
  • Proof of hotel booking or an invitation from hosts in Sri Lanka

Note: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your entry date into Sri Lanka.

(b) Tourist Visa for Extended Stays

If you plan to visit Sri Lanka for more than 30 days for tourism, submit your completed application form along with the following documents to obtain a long-term single or double entry tourist visa.

Requirements

  • Filled application form for a single or double entry visa (download here)
  • Two recent color passport photos (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm or 2” x 2”)
  • Invitation or sponsor letter from your hosts in Sri Lanka
  • Bank statement showing enough funds for your stay and return ticket (not required for Sri Lankan Americans)
  • Letter explaining why you need a long stay visa
  • Passport (must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Sri Lanka)

2. Business Visa

If you’re going to Sri Lanka for any of the following reasons, you need to get a business visa:

  • Attending business meetings or negotiations
  • Participating in conferences, workshops, or seminars
  • Joining short-term training programs
  • Taking part in art, music, or dance events
  • Attending symposiums or religious events

Based on how long you’ll stay and the type of entry, you or someone else can apply for a Business Visa through the ETA website, www.eta.gov.lk, by submitting a business ETA application.

If you prefer, the Consulate General can submit your ETA application for you. If you have trouble using the ETA website, bring your completed application form and the necessary documents to them, and they will help you get ETA approval.

Requirements

Here’s the information you need to apply for a Business ETA:

  • Download and fill out the Business ETA application form.
  • Attach two recent color passport photos (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm or 2” x 2”).
  • Provide an invitation letter from the host company in Sri Lanka.
  • Include a No Objection Letter from your company in the UAE.
  • Show proof of hotel booking or an invitation from hosts in Sri Lanka.
  • Provide return flight tickets.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date you enter Sri Lanka.
  • Include your original passport.
  • Provide copies of the passport’s main page and your UAE residence visa page.

3. Transit Visa

If you stay inside the airport during your layover, you don’t need a transit visa.

You or someone else can apply for a transit ETA online at www.eta.gov.lk.

If you want the Consulate General to apply for you, or if you can’t apply online due to technical issues, give them your completed application form and the necessary documents listed below to get ETA approval.

Requirements

  • Fill out the application form online using the ETA system.
  • Make sure your passport remains valid for at least six months upon entry.
  • Provide a recent passport-sized photo.
  • Show proof of onward travel to another destination within two days.
  • Pay the required visa fee.

Please be aware: This visa allows a stay for up to two days.

4. Diplomatic and Official Visa

Diplomatic or official passport holders visiting Sri Lanka for official reasons need to obtain a visa from the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Dubai.

The Consulate General grants visas at no cost to those traveling with diplomatic or official passports for official duties in Sri Lanka. If traveling for other reasons, these passport holders must adhere to the appropriate visa application process.

Requirements

  • Fill out the diplomatic or official ETA application.
  • Include two passport photos (in color, sized 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm or 2” x 2”)
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your entry into Sri Lanka.
  • Provide a TPN letter from your Embassy.
  • Submit a copy of the officer’s diplomatic identity card.

5. Journalist Visa

Media professionals planning to visit Sri Lanka must obtain a visa in advance from the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Dubai before arriving in Colombo. It is important to note that those coming for media assignments cannot enter the country using a tourist or regular business visa.

Requirements

Here are the items needed to apply for a visa to enter Sri Lanka:

  • Form B for entry visa application
  • Journalist Attestation Form
  • Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond the entry date)
  • Two recent passport-size photos
  • Letter of Commission: a letter from your media organization outlining your planned activities, including dates, locations, and details of any interviews. (Freelancers should provide a letter from their editor.)
  • A list of equipment for electronic media, along with a carnet or bank guarantee for customs clearance
  • Letter confirming that all equipment will be exported after the visit
  • Return air ticket

6. Residence Visa

Non-Sri Lankans can get a residence visa if authorities believe their stay and work in Sri Lanka won’t harm the country’s interests. To apply, you must first get an entry visa from a Sri Lankan embassy.

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Dubai will only issue this entry visa if the Controller General of Immigration and Emigration approves. When applying for the entry visa, clearly mention your intention to apply for a residence visa and provide all required documents.

Keep in mind that you cannot convert a tourist visa into a residence visa. Visit www.immigration.gov.lk for more information regarding residence visas.

Requirements

  • Applying for a entry visa
  • You’ll need a photocopy of the visa approval notice issued by Sri Lanka’s Immigration & Emigration Department.
  • Two recent passport photos in color, sized 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm or 2” x 2”.
  • Please note: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry into Sri Lanka.

There are different types of residence visas, such as:

(a) Work Visa

This visa is for people who are looking to work in a Sri Lankan company.

Requirements

  • Job Offer: A letter of appointment or contract from a Sri Lankan employer.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-size photo.
  • Educational and Professional Qualifications: Relevant certificates and documents.
  • Medical Report: Proof of good health.
  • Police Clearance: Certificate from your home country.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.

(b) Family Visa

This visa is for children who are dependent on their Sri Lankan national or resident parent. It is also for the spouses.

Requirements

  • Relationship Proof: Marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for dependent children).
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Sponsor’s Documents: Passport and residence permit of the Sri Lankan citizen or resident.
  • Medical Report: Proof of good health.
  • Police Clearance: Certificate from your home country.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.

(c) Investor Visa

This visa is for investors or foreign business people.

Requirements

  • Business Plan: Detailed plan of the intended investment.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds for investment.
  • Company Documents: Registration and incorporation documents if needed.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.

(d) Student Visa

This visa is for foreign students who got into a Sri Lankan educational institution.

Requirements

  • Admission Letter: From a recognized educational institution in Sri Lanka.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
  • Medical Report: Proof of good health.
  • Police Clearance: Certificate from your home country.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee

(e) Religious Visa

This visa is for foreign members of the clergy.

Requirements

  • Religious Institution Invitation: A letter from a recognized religious organization in Sri Lanka.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Qualifications: Proof of religious standing and qualifications.
  • Medical Report: Proof of good health.
  • Police Clearance: Certificate from your home country.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.

(f) Retirement Visa

This visa is for foreigners who wish to spend their retirement in Sri Lanka.

Requirements

  • Age Requirement: Generally for individuals aged 55 and above.
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds for living expenses (bank statements, pension documents).
  • Accommodation Proof: Proof of long-term accommodation in Sri Lanka.
  • Medical Report: Proof of good health.
  • Police Clearance: Certificate from your home country.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.

(g) Digital Nomad Visa

This visa is for foreign freelancers who wish to work from Sri Lanka, remotely.

Requirements

  • Remote Work Proof: Evidence of freelance or remote work (contracts, client letters).
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
  • Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay.
  • Accommodation Proof: Hotel reservation or rental agreement.
  • Medical Report: Proof of good health.
  • Police Clearance: Certificate from your home country.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the visa fee.

7. Visit Visa

This visa is for a brief stay, whether for sightseeing, business, visiting family, or other short-term reasons. You cannot work in Sri Lanka if you have a tourist or visit visa.

Requirements

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • Completed Application Form: Available online or at Sri Lankan embassies and consulates.
  • Passport-sized Photos: Usually two recent color photos.
  • Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the stay in Sri Lanka.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of return travel or onward travel arrangements.
  • Accommodation Details: Information about where you will stay during your visit.
  • Visa Fee: Payment of the applicable visa fee.

For the latest details, visit the official Sri Lankan immigration website or reach out to the nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.

How to Apply For a Srilankan Visa for UAE Residents

You can apply for a Sri Lanka visa in one of two ways, depending on your nationality:

  • Visit the official Sri Lanka visa website to apply online through ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
  • Go to the closest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate.

1. Apply for a Sri Lanka Visa Through ETA

To apply online, follow these steps:

  • Begin your application by completing the form with personal details like your name, birthdate, nationality, occupation, and passport information. Confirm your Covid-19 vaccination status.
  • Enter your travel information, including where you’ve been recently, your desired length of stay (30 or 180 days), arrival date, purpose of visit, and travel details.
  • Provide details of your accommodation in Sri Lanka.
  • Answer declaration questions honestly about your visit.
  • Review all information carefully before submitting.
  • Pay the application fee online using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.
  • Receive confirmation of your application.

Note: Use the same travel document for both applying online and entering Sri Lanka. Using a different document upon arrival will require payment for another visa.”

Here are some important things to remember:

  • Submit your Sri Lanka ETA application early to give it enough time for processing.
  • Verify that all details in your application are correct to prevent any problems or delays.
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned departure from Sri Lanka.
  • Follow the rules of the ETA, such as respecting the maximum stay and avoiding unauthorized activities.

More Information

Most travelers can apply online for a Sri Lanka visa, except citizens needing an Embassy visa. The online process is called Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Here’s how you can get it:

  • Apply from home before your trip.
  • Submit your application on the official Immigration Department website.
  • Pay the fee using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.
  • Processing usually takes about an hour.
  • You’ll receive the outcome through email or check online using your confirmation number.
  • If you wait until you arrive at the Sri Lankan airport, there are ETA counters, but it’s better to get it beforehand to avoid waiting in line. You can also apply through a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate, similar to a regular visa process.
  • Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, show your ETA along with:
  • Your passport (valid for at least six more months)
  • A confirmed return ticket
  • Sufficient funds for your stay.

Note: For long-term stays like work or family reunification, apply for an embassy visa. ETA is for tourism, business, or transit purposes only.

2. Apply for a Sri Lanka Visa Through the Embassy

To apply for a visa to Sri Lanka through an Embassy, follow these steps:

  • Begin by contacting your nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.
  • Fill out the Sri Lanka visa application form and submit it, along with the visa fee, your passport, and required documents, to the embassy or consulate.
  • The embassy/consulate will send your application to the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration & Emigration (DI&E).
  • You’ll receive a visa application reference number. Expect notification from the embassy/consulate once your application is processed, usually within three working days.
  • Return to the embassy/consulate to collect your passport with the Sri Lanka visa inside.
  • Depending on the visa’s validity, you may receive a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa valid for three months.
  • When traveling to Sri Lanka, carry your passport with the visa stamped (or ETA), a confirmed return-flight ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Note: Apply for an embassy visa if your travel plans to Sri Lanka involve long-term purposes like work or family reunification.

Requirements

  • Applicants from eligible countries seeking a Sri Lanka visa must possess a passport valid for at least six months from their arrival date, with at least two blank pages. A digital passport photo with a plain background may be required in some cases. Additionally, a clear image of the passport’s bio page is necessary to ensure accurate details on the visa letter, avoiding issues upon arrival.
  • For business visas, applicants may be asked to provide a business invitation letter or business card.
  • While booking hotels in advance is not always required, travelers may need to provide hotel booking details in certain situations.
  • Travelers must present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before arrival or proof of double vaccination. Entry may be denied without either of these documents.
  • Evidence of financial means to support oneself during the stay is required.
  • Proof of onward travel arrangements, such as a return flight ticket, must be provided.
  • Documents supporting the purpose of the trip must be submitted.
  • Applicants for long-term visas or residency in Sri Lanka will receive specific document requirements from the embassy handling their application.

Cost

The Sri Lanka online visa (ETA) costs:

  • – $35 for a visa allowing single or double entries
  • – $40 for a visa allowing multiple entries.

If you opt to obtain an ETA at the airport, prices are slightly higher:

  • – $40 for a visa allowing single or double entries
  • – $50 for a visa allowing multiple entries.

Visa fees issued at Sri Lanka’s embassy or consulate vary by country based on reciprocity.

Processing Time

1. Tourist Visa

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for tourists is typically processed within 24 hours if applied online.

  • Short-term: 1-2 Business Days
  • Long-term: 3-7 Business Days (Conditions apply)

2. Business Visa

Similar to the tourist ETA, the business ETA is usually processed within 24 hours, with a maximum processing time of 2-3 business days.

3. Transit Visa

The transit ETA is generally processed within 24 hours and may take up to 2-3 business days.

4. Diplomatic and Official Visa

It typically takes 5 to 10 business days. Please remember that you need approval from the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs before a Diplomatic Visa can be issued.

5. Long-Term Visas (e.g., Student, Employment, Resident Visas)

These visas often require more documentation and a longer processing time. It can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months, depending on the completeness of the application and the specific requirements of the visa.

6. On Arrival Visa

For certain nationalities, visas on arrival are available, and these are processed immediately at the port of entry.

It’s always best to check the latest information from the official website of the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka or contact the nearest Sri Lankan consulate or embassy for the most accurate and up-to-date processing times.

Validity

  • Initially, a Sri Lanka ETA allows you to stay for 30 days. If necessary, you can extend your stay for up to six months after arriving in Sri Lanka.
  • A visa from the Sri Lanka embassy lets you stay for up to 3 months, with options for single-entry, double-entry, or multiple entries.
  • A Sri Lanka transit visa is issued for a period of 2 days.

Visa with Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi Passports

For UAE residents with Pakistani, Indian, or Bangladeshi passports, the process to obtain a visa for Sri Lanka involves the following steps and requirements:

Visa Application Methods

1. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Most applicants can apply for a Sri Lankan visa online through the ETA system.

2. At the Embassy: If unable to apply online, you can apply at the Sri Lankan Embassy in the UAE.

Requirements for ETA Application

  • Valid Passport: Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • Completed ETA Application Form.
  • Passport Copies: Including the face page and UAE Residence Visa page.
  • Return Air Ticket
  • Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking or an invitation from hosts in Sri Lanka.
  • Visa Fee:
  • For SAARC country passport holders: USD 20 (approximately AED 73).
  • For other nationalities: USD 35 (approximately AED 129).

Visa Validity

The ETA allows for a stay of 30 days with the possibility of a two-month extension upon arrival.

Application Procedure

1. Online Application: Submit the application and pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card.

2. Receive ETA Approval: This is typically sent via email and should be printed and presented upon arrival in Sri Lanka.

Additional Notes

  • It is recommended to apply for the ETA in advance to avoid delays and complications upon arrival.
  • Children under 12 years of age are exempt from visa fees but must still obtain a visa.

For more detailed information and to apply for an ETA, you can visit the official Sri Lanka ETA website https://eta.gov.lk/etaslvisa/etaNavServ.

FAQ’s

Your Sri Lanka ETA will be sent to your email address upon approval.

You can extend your Sri Lanka visa by applying at the Department of Immigration in Sri Lanka before it expires. You need a valid reason, and the extension can be up to six months.

To extend your visa, prepare:

  • Your passport should be valid for at least another six months.
  • A recent passport-size photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm).
  • Proof of financial support for your extended stay.
  • Evidence of your intention to leave Sri Lanka after the extension, such as a flight ticket.
  • Additional documents related to your extension reason.

Yes, it can be extended for up to six months if desired.

  • Sri Lankan dual citizens.
  • Children up to 21 years old whose birth is registered under section 5(2) of the Citizenship Act of 1948.
  • Children under 21 years old born in Sri Lanka to Sri Lankan parents holding foreign nationality.

Yes, you can check your ETA status by logging into the ETA website.

Holders of Diplomatic or Official Passports, or those with valid Diplomatic or Official endorsements, do not need to pay any visa fees as per Ministry recommendations.

Yes, you should print it upon receipt as you’ll need to present it along with other documents at the entry port.

To apply for an ETA in Sri Lanka, you must have:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
  • A confirmed return flight ticket.
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration may grant you a visa if:

  • You are deemed suitable to enter Sri Lanka.
  • Your purpose of visit is approved.
  • Your passport is valid for at least six months.
  • You can financially support yourself during your stay and for your return journey.
  • You have a confirmed ticket to return home or a visa for your next destination.

During your stay in Sri Lanka:

  • You must not engage in any form of employment, paid or unpaid, other than what’s specified in your visa.
  • Use your visa before its expiry date.
  • Entry validity depends on the specified period.
  • The visa may be single, double, or multiple entry depending on the type.

Engage only in activities permitted by your visa conditions. It allows multiple entries.

If staying more than 24 hours for a connecting flight:

Obtain a transit visa upon arrival or from a Sri Lankan mission abroad before arrival. It’s valid for 48 hours.

Once applied, your visa will be processed within 3 working days.

The Sri Lanka ETA is valid for up to 30 days from your arrival date.

Conclusion

For more information about Sri Lanka visa for UAE residents, you can get in touch with the Sri Lankan embassy in the UAE:

Sri Lankan Embassy Information in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Contact number: +971 2 631 6444 / +971 2 634 6481

Fax number: +971 2 633 1661

Email: [email protected]

Website: abudhabi.embassy.gov.lk

Address:

Embassy of Sri Lanka
Villa No. 18/A, Sector E 18/3, Salam Street,
P.O. Box: 46534,
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

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