In a major move aimed at revitalising inbound tourism and simplifying travel formalities, Sri Lanka has officially introduced a free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) facility for travellers from 40 countries, including India, effective May 25, 2026. The initiative is expected to strengthen regional tourism flows, enhance connectivity, and position the island nation as a more accessible leisure destination for global travellers.
According to the official notification issued by the Department of Immigration and Emigration, eligible visitors can now obtain a tourist ETA free of charge for short-term stays of up to 30 days. The revised arrangement also includes a double-entry facility, allowing travellers to re-enter Sri Lanka within the validity period from the date of first arrival.
The decision forms part of Sri Lanka’s broader tourism recovery strategy as the country seeks to accelerate international visitor arrivals, strengthen aviation-linked travel demand, and improve competitiveness against regional destinations in Asia. Industry observers believe the move will particularly support short-haul traffic from India, which continues to remain one of Sri Lanka’s largest and fastest-growing source markets for tourism.
The 40 countries covered under the new free ETA programme include Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States.
Sri Lankan authorities clarified that the policy applies to holders of diplomatic, official, service, and ordinary passports from the eligible nations. However, despite the fee waiver, travellers are still required to obtain an ETA prior to arrival in Sri Lanka, as the system remains mandatory for all foreign nationals entering the country.
The government has also confirmed that nationals travelling under bilateral reciprocal agreements with Sri Lanka — including those from Maldives, Seychelles, and Singapore — must continue to secure an ETA before departure, although the process will remain free of charge for these categories as well. Under the existing bilateral arrangement, Maldivian nationals will continue to receive a 90-day tourist visa through the ETA system.
Tourism and aviation analysts suggest the initiative could significantly benefit airlines, airport operators, hospitality companies, and destination management stakeholders by reducing entry barriers and encouraging spontaneous leisure travel, particularly from South Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The simplified visa framework is also expected to support multi-destination itineraries across the Indian Ocean region.
The revised ETA framework further allows travellers wishing to remain beyond the initial 30-day period to apply for visa extensions upon payment of the applicable fees. Sri Lankan authorities have additionally clarified that any ETA fees paid prior to May 25, 2026, are non-refundable.
The development comes as Sri Lanka continues its efforts to regain tourism momentum following recent global travel disruptions and regional market fluctuations. The country had earlier indicated plans to expand visa-free access as part of a long-term tourism growth roadmap designed to increase international arrivals and foreign exchange earnings.
For travellers, the official ETA application portal remains available through Sri Lanka ETA Portal.
