Traveling to Sri Lanka has become more accessible with the introduction of the new Sri Lanka Tourist Visa, which has replaced the previous Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Offvisa, a leading travel documentation service, is here to guide you through this process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the new Sri Lanka Tourist Visa, from its features and benefits to the application process and travel tips.

Understanding the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

The Sri Lanka Tourist Visa is an online travel authorization that permits eligible foreign nationals to enter Sri Lanka for short-term visits for tourism purposes. This new eVisa system aims to streamline the visa application process, making it more efficient and user-friendly.

What You Can Do with a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

• Sightseeing and Holidaying: Explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

• Visiting Friends and Relatives: Spend quality time with loved ones residing in Sri Lanka.

• Medical Treatments: Access a range of medical treatments, including traditional Ayurvedic and yoga therapies.

• Participating in Events: Engage in sports events, competitions, and cultural performances.

Restrictions of the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

• Employment: You cannot engage in any form of employment, whether paid or voluntary.

• Business Activities: Participating in business or trade activities is prohibited.

• Educational Purposes: Studying or attending conferences, art, music, and dance events without proper endorsements is not allowed.

• Long-term Stays: Frequent or successive visits to live in Sri Lanka are not permitted.

Eligibility for the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

Almost all nationalities need a visa to enter Sri Lanka, including citizens from Australia, Brazil, the USA, and the UK. To check your eligibility, visit the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration & Emigration's website or use Offvisa’s nationality checker tool.

Visa-Exempt Nationals

Citizens from Singapore, the Maldives, Seychelles, and the Czech Republic are exempt from needing a tourist visa for short stays. Nationals from countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Syria, and North Korea must apply for a visa through a Sri Lankan embassy. Citizens of Kosovo are only eligible for a Sri Lankan visa on arrival. You also don't need a visa, if you’re transiting through any of the Sri Lankan airports (for a period not exceeding 2 days).

Requirements for the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of arrival.

• Travel Intentions: You should be a genuine traveler with valid reasons for visiting.

• Financial Means: Sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

• Home Country Ties: Strong ties to ensure you return home after your visit.

Validity and Types of the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

There are several visa options depending on the length and purpose of your visit:

• Single-entry Visa: Valid for 30 days.

• Double-entry Visa: Valid for 6 months with a maximum stay of 60 days per visit.

• Multiple-entry Visa: Available for 1, 2, 5, or 10 years, with varying lengths of stay per visit.

For the Standard Visitor Visa (6 months), Offvisa can assist with the application process. For other visa types, you may need to visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration website.

Extending Your Stay

The Standard Visitor Visa can be extended for an additional two months. To apply for an extension, visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo before your current visa expires.

Application Process

Offvisa is dedicated to making the visa application process as seamless as possible for travelers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Sri Lanka Tourist Visa through Offvisa service:

1. Fill the Application: Complete the online application form on our platform.

2. Submit Required Documents: Upload a recent color passport photo and a scanned copy of the bio-page of your passport.

3. Pay the Fee: Pay the visa fee using a valid credit or debit card.

4. Receive Visa: Upon approval, you will receive an email notification. Print out the visa and save a digital copy on your mobile device for your trip.

Required Documents

• Passport Photo: Recent and in color in JPEG format, meeting Sri Lankan standards.

• Passport Bio-page: Scanned copy in JPEG format.

• Additional Documents: Depending on your visa type, you may need an invitation letter or a detailed travel itinerary (e.g.,flight itinerary and hotel booking confirmation).

Processing Times and Costs

The fee structure may vary depending on the type of visa and processing time, so be sure to check the applicable fees on the Offvisa website. We currently only process applications for the Standard Visitor Visa. If you are interested in applying for any other Tourist Visa options, please visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration website. Offvisa offers two processing options:

• Standard Processing: 3-5 days.

• Rush Processing: Faster option for urgent travel needs.

Benefits of Using Offvisa

• Simplified Process: User-friendly online application.

• Fast Processing: Multiple processing options to suit your needs.

• Expert Assistance: Professional guidance throughout the application process.

• Secure Payments: Safe and secure online payment methods.

Conclusion

Traveling to Sri Lanka is now easier than ever with the new Tourist Visa. Offvisa is dedicated to making your visa application process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you're planning a holiday, visiting family, or seeking medical treatment, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Explore the wonders of Sri Lanka with ease, knowing that your travel documentation is in good hands with Offvisa. Safe travels!

To start your application with Offvisa, visit Sri Lanka Visa.

For more detailed information and to start your application, visit the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka eVisa portal.