Sri Lanka's mandatory pre-arrival ETA reversal: what it means for you
A controversial mandatory ETA rule was quickly reversed after backlash—here's what travelers need to know.
In mid-October 2025, Sri Lanka announced a new rule requiring the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to be obtained before departure. The rule was set to take effect on 15 October—but within days, it was reversed following concerns from the travel industry and travellers. Visa processing has now reverted to prior procedures, and the door remains open for future adjustments.
This reversal matters because it signals a return to familiar processes for travellers planning trips to Sri Lanka. Whether you were already approved under the old system or applying fresh, the ground beneath your feet is stable again. There's no unexpected scramble, no last-minute scrambling to meet impossible deadlines.
If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka in the coming months, keep an eye on official immigration announcements—but for now, proceed with the visa process as you normally would. The door to Sri Lanka remains open, and the path forward is clear.
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