Sri Lanka Visa for Indians 2026: Free ETA, Stay Limit and How to Apply
The Sri Lanka visa for Indians is free in 2026, but it is not optional: Indian passport holders must still get an ETA (electronic travel authorisation) before they fly. The free tourist ETA allows a stay of up to 30 days with double entry. This guide explains the Sri Lanka ETA for Indians, what is free and what costs money, and the mistakes to avoid before you travel from Kochi or anywhere else in India.
Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka in 2026?
Yes, but it is free. Since 25 May 2026, Indian nationals can obtain a Sri Lanka tourist visa through the ETA system at no charge, for a stay of up to 30 days. The official Sri Lanka ETA website lists India among 40 countries covered by the free scheme, and it states that every foreign visitor, including those from free-fee countries, must hold an ETA before arrival. The free scheme applies to the tourist ETA, so other travel purposes may be handled differently and should be checked before you book.
In short, this is a Sri Lanka free visa for Indians: there is no fee, but the application is still compulsory. For destinations where you can get a visa on arrival instead, see our guide to visa on arrival countries for Indians.
What is the Sri Lanka ETA?
The ETA is an online travel permission linked to your passport. Instead of visiting an embassy, you apply on the official website before travel and receive the free ETA approval electronically. It is the same ETA system used by visitors from other countries, which is why every traveller must apply before arrival.
The Sri Lanka ETA for Indians covers tourism. It includes a 30-day stay and a double-entry facility, meaning you can leave and re-enter once within 30 days of your first arrival.
How to apply for the Sri Lanka ETA step by step
If you are searching for Sri Lanka ETA apply online guidance, the process is short, but small errors can delay approval.
Use the official website only.
Apply in advance.
Enter the information needed.
Save your approval.
If you are unsure about any answer, speak to our visa consultant before you submit.
Fees and processing time
The Sri Lanka ETA for Indians is free, so the Sri Lanka visa fee for Indians is zero for a stay of up to 30 days. The official site notes that ETA fees paid before 25 May 2026 are not refundable.
Costs can still arise. Extensions beyond 30 days carry a fee, and some third-party websites charge service fees for a free form. Some guides report an optional express service for around USD 40, but it isn't needed for the free ETA, so check eta.gov.lk before paying anyone.
Guides report a Sri Lanka visa processing time of about 24 to 48 hours, but the official site does not state a fixed time. Apply early and avoid booking non-refundable plans before you have your approval.
How long can you stay and can you extend it?
The Sri Lanka visa for Indians allows up to 30 days from your first arrival, with double entry inside that period. Count your 30 days from your first arrival, not the approval date. For a longer stay, you'll need a Sri Lanka visa extension, which you apply for separately and which carries a fee set by the Sri Lankan authorities.
Extension rules and fees can change. Ask a visa consultant before you plan a longer trip, and apply before your 30 days end.
Kochi to Colombo: quick travel tips
Colombo is a short flight from Kochi, which makes Sri Lanka a popular first international trip. Get your Sri Lanka ETA for Indians approved before you pay for flights, and check that the name on your ticket matches your passport. Compare your flight dates with the dates on your ETA, because wrong dates are a common cause of problems.
If you are planning a Sri Lanka visa from Kochi, our flight ticket booking in Kochi and forex service pages can help with the rest of your trip. For a wider planning list, read our first international trip checklist. Planning another destination? Read our guides on Malaysia visa-free entry for Indians and the Vietnam e-visa guide.
Common mistakes Indian travellers make
Most problems with the Sri Lanka visa for Indians come from small, avoidable errors.
Using fake or third-party ETA sites. Be cautious of any site that asks for a fee.
Travelling on a passport with short validity. Six months of validity is commonly required.
Having no return or onward ticket. Keep one ready to show.
Entering wrong dates or passport details. Check every field before you submit.
Assuming the ETA can be skipped because it is free. It is still compulsory before arrival.
Many of these errors appear in our list of the top 7 mistakes in visa applications.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes, but it is free. The Sri Lanka visa for Indians is a tourist ETA obtained online before arrival, with no fee since 25 May 2026. It allows a stay of up to 30 days with double entry, so most holiday itineraries fit comfortably inside the limit.
Is the Sri Lanka ETA free for Indians?
Yes. India is on the official list of 40 countries eligible for a free 30-day tourist ETA from 25 May 2026. Extensions beyond 30 days cost extra, and some third-party websites charge for a free form, so use only the official portal.
How long does the ETA take?
Guides report approval within about 24 to 48 hours, sometimes faster, but the official site does not state a fixed time. Apply well before you book flights or plan to travel, and keep a copy of your approval once it arrives.
How many days can Indians stay in Sri Lanka?
Up to 30 days from first arrival on the free tourist ETA, with double entry within that period. Longer stays need an extension, which carries a fee. Count your 30 days from first arrival, and apply for any extension before they end.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes, extensions beyond 30 days are possible but paid, and you apply for them separately. Rules and fees can change, so confirm the current position with the Sri Lankan authorities or a visa consultant before you travel.
What documents are needed at Colombo airport?
The Sri Lanka visa documents required are your passport (valid for at least six months), your ETA approval, a return or onward ticket, a hotel booking, and proof of funds. Officers can ask to see these documents on arrival, so keep them together and easy to reach.
Planning your Sri Lanka trip
The Sri Lanka visa for Indians is free, but a small error with your ETA, dates or documents can still disrupt a short holiday. Check the latest rules before you book, and keep your approval and documents ready for Colombo Airport.
Our team can guide you through every stage of the process. Speak to Visa Roots for visa services, flights and travel insurance. See what other travellers say in our customer reviews, then contact us to plan your trip.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and reflects guidance on the official Sri Lanka ETA website as checked on 6 October 2026. Visa rules, fees and entry requirements can change. Always confirm current requirements with the Sri Lankan authorities before you travel.
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