Good News: Sri Lanka Tourist ETA Now Free for 40 Nations
From May 2026, tourists from 40 countries, including India and the UK, get free 30-day Sri Lanka ETAs.
Starting 25 May 2026, Sri Lanka made a significant move to boost tourism: tourists from 40 countries, including India, UK, USA, China, Australia, and Canada, now qualify for free 30-day, double-entry tourist Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs). The change followed Parliament's approval of amended Immigration and Emigration Act regulations on 7 May. Travellers from these nations still must apply for an ETA online before arrival, but the fee is waived. Separately, Maldivians qualify for a free 90-day visa.
This is genuinely positive news for international visitors and great for family members coming to visit Sri Lankans. The online ETA process remains simple (takes minutes, requires a passport, recent photo, and basic info), so the waived fee is pure benefit. If friends or relatives from these 40 countries have been hesitant to visit due to visa costs, now's the time to invite them. The double-entry allowance also means they can leave and return without needing a new visa. Apply online before arrival as always—it's straightforward, and the fee removal makes Sri Lanka travel more accessible.
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