Apply for Sri Lanka Visa from UK
UK citizens traveling to Sri Lanka, whether to witness the beautiful landscapes or for any other purpose, need to hold a valid visa. However, with the introduction of the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), British nationals can now plan their visit to this beautiful island nation without the hassle of lengthy visa procedures.
However, to make your Sri Lanka ETA application process hassle-free. We have brought you all the important things that you must know before you apply for Sri Lanka ETA with a UK passport.
More about Sri Lanka e-Visa (eTA)
It was Introduced on January 1st, 2012. The Sri Lanka ETA has made getting a visa for Sri Lanka quicker and easier through an online process. In short, a Sri Lankan ETA is a digital visa system that acts as a permit for travelers to visit Sri Lanka. Simply put, it’s an online approval that you must get before starting your trip to Sri Lanka.
Once approved, they will link the Sri Lankan ETA to your country’s passport. The approval typically takes 1 to 2 business days. Although a priority service is available for those who need it sooner, with approval granted within one hour.
Do UK Citizens Need an ETA for Sri Lanka?
Yes, all UK citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka must obtain an ETA before their arrival. The ETA is a mandatory pre-approval that grants you permission to enter Sri Lanka. You must obtain it online before starting your journey.
Whether you plan to explore Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes, attend business meetings, or simply transit through the country. You’ll need to apply for the appropriate ETA type. Without an ETA, UK citizens may be denied entry at the Sri Lankan border.
Types of ETA for UK Citizens
UK citizens can choose from three main types of Sri Lanka ETAs. Each designed to cater to different travel needs:
Tourist ETA
UK citizens use the Tourist ETA when visiting Sri Lanka for leisure or tourism purposes. Once issued, this ETA is valid for 180 days, allowing travelers to enter the country within this period. After entering Sri Lanka, you can stay for up to 30 days. The Tourist ETA also permits one exit and re-entry within those 30 days, as long as the re-entry occurs within the initial 30-day period.
Business ETA
UK citizens coming to Sri Lanka for business-related operations must obtain a Business ETA. Like the Tourist ETA, it is valid for 180 days. Once you enter Sri Lanka, the Business ETA allows you to make multiple entries within a 30-day period, as long as your final entry occurs within 30 days of your initial arrival. People who might have to travel in and out of Sri Lanka for meetings, conferences, or other business obligations should use this ETA.
Transit ETA
The Transit ETA covers travelers passing through Sri Lanka on their way to another location. This type of ETA is also valid for 180 days. However, it has a stay duration of up to 48 hours. Importantly, the Transit ETA does not permit you to leave the airport.
If your connecting flight is more than 48 hours away, you’ll need to apply for a tourist or business ETA instead.
What Documents Are Required by UK Citizens for Sri Lanka ETA?
When applying for a Sri Lanka ETA, UK citizens will need to provide several essential documents and personal details to complete the application process. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for a further six months from the day you entered Sri Lanka. The passport details you provide in your ETA application must match the passport you will use to travel.
Email Address: A valid email address is required, as all communication regarding your ETA, including the approval notification, will be sent via email.
Payment Method: Make sure you acquire a valid debit or credit card that works for international transactions.
Digital Passport Photo: While not always mandatory, it’s advisable to have a digital copy of your passport’s information page ready in case it’s requested during the application process.
For UK citizens applying for the Sri Lanka ETA, providing the above-mentioned documents and details ensures that your ETA application is processed smoothly and without delays.
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Currently, there are eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. These historical sites range from historical cities to sacred shrines to beautiful woods and incredible caves. These locations play a huge role in making Sri Lanka what is known today as the ‘Pearl in the Indian Ocean’.