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Sri Lanka Visa Guide

Sri Lanka Visa

VISA: Required

Visa Issuance:

  • Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) can be obtained before departure at  www.eta.gov.lk
  • Free Visa regime is implemented for nationals of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan with effect from 28.11.203, until 31.03.2024 . After 31.03.2024 , the applicant is eligible to obtain a visa extension on payment basis by approaching the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Battaramulla or online.
  • The validity period of this free ETA is 30 days and permits double entry from the date of initial arrival to Sri Lanka.Please make sure passenger is holding return or onward TKT from CMB, Sufficient funds & hotel booking.

Additional Information:

  • It is mandatory for all passengers travelling to and from Sri Lanka to fill Arrival/Departure cards online by visiting www.immigration.gov.lk  within 3 days to departure. 

Visitors not holding return/onward tickets could be refused entry.

Passport Requirement:  Passport required.

Document Validity: Passports and other documents accepted for entry must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the arrival date.

Sri Lanka is a small country surrounded by the Indian Ocean. It is quite recognisable due to its unique teardrop-like shape. This island country has so much to see and do, from the staggering Lotus Tower in Colombo  to the Nine Arches Bridge at Ella, not to forget their sandy beaches and tropical forests.

A Sri Lanka visa is all you need to enter the country and experience it all. To apply for a Sri Lanka visa online is hassle-free. There are several types of visas, which include those for tourism, business, residence, and transit. Sri Lanka visa for Indians has an added benefit with visa on arrival option. But for this, you will need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) before leaving for Sri Lanka.

Planning to visit Sri Lanka? Here is a chance to enter the country without the hassle of going through the visa process. Sri Lanka is offering visa-free for Indian nationals with immediate effect as a pilot project and it will last till 31st March, 2024. Know more by visiting this website .

To apply for a Sri Lanka visa online, you need to visit the official website. These are the steps you need to keep in mind:

  • Submit your eTA application to the Department of Immigration via the official website
  • Pay the fee and await the eTA to be processed
  • Your application will be sent to you via email, and you can also check the status on the official website
  • After you arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport , show your eTA to the immigration officers, along with your travel documents

Apart from the eTA, there are other ways to apply for Sri Lanka visa, that are as follows.

  • Contact the nearest embassy or consulate to apply for a Sri Lanka visa
  • Fill out the application and submit it to the embassy or consulate
  • Make sure to also submit the visa fee, passport, and the required documents
  • The embassy will forward your Sri Lanka application to the Department of Immigration and Emigration (DI&E)
  • You will be provided with a visa application number. You can check your visa application status by using this number
  • The process for a Sri Lanka visa may take two to four working days
  • Once the process is completed, you will receive the documents you provided
  • Based on the visa validity, you will receive a single, double, or multiple entry Sri Lanka visa
  • This visa is valid for three months

You can check your visa application on the official   website  using the confirmation number, you receive after submitting the application, along with your passport number.

There are different types of Sri Lanka visas depending on your purpose of visit, either for travel or business. Some of them are mentioned below.

  • Tourist visa
  • Business visa
  • Transit visa
  • Student visa
  • Visa on arrival

A tourist visa is a popular type of visa to enter a country. Through this visa, tourists can go for sightseeing, excursions, and visiting friends and relatives.

Eligibility for tourist visa

  • Confirmed return tickets
  • A passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of departure
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Tourist visa documentation
  • First and last page of your passport (scanned colour copy)
  • Passport-size photograph with white background
  • Bank statement

Tourist visa validity

The tourist visa for Sri Lanka is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

Stay duration of the tourist visa

By taking the Sri Lanka visa for tourism, you are eligible to stay for a period of three months. The visa can be extended for a maximum of six months.

Processing time for tourist visas

The processing time for a Sri Lanka tourist visa may take up to four working days. The Sri Lanka visa process may take longer if the information in your official documents is not correct.

A business visa is issued to foreign nationals whose purpose for visiting Sri Lanka is business. This visa may be issued for single, double, or multiple entries, depending on the type of business you have in Sri Lanka.

Eligibility for business visa

  • An invitation letter from the company/reason for the business visa

Business visa validity

The business visa's validity is for three months from the date of issue. Kindly check the official website for additional information regarding visa validity.  

Stay duration of the business visa

The stay duration of the business visa in Sri Lanka is for a period of 30 days.

Processing time for business visas

The processing time for Sri Lanka business visa may take two to four working days. The Sri Lanka visa process may take longer if the information in your official documents is not correct.

A transit visa for Sri Lanka is suitable for those who plan for a short stay, before boarding an onward flight to their final destination. If you have a long layover in Sri Lanka, you can apply for transit visa, which enables you to go out from the arrival point and explore the sites.

Eligibility for transit visa

  • Confirmed onward flight ticket
  • Proof of sufficient funds

Transit visa validity

The transit visa is valid for two to seven days, depending on the layover or your intent to stay in Sri Lanka. Beyond seven days, if you wish to stay for longer, you will need to change to tourist/business visa.

Stay duration of the transit visa

Sri Lanka transit visas allow visitors to stay for two days without additional cost. However, for a longer transit visa, up to seven days, you will be charged an additional amount.  

Processing time for transit visas

The processing time for Sri Lanka transit visa may take two to four working days. The Sri Lanka visa process may take longer if the information in your official documents is not correct.

This type of Sri Lanka visa is provided to students coming to the country to pursue a course. The approval of this visa is processed in Colombo by the Department of Immigration.

Eligibility for student visa

  • Invitation letter from the university
  • Proof of payment for the course

Student visa validity

Student visas are valid till the duration of the course .

Stay duration of the student visa

Based on the duration of the course, a visa is provided to the students.

Processing time for student visas

The processing time for Sri Lanka student visa may take two to four working days. The Sri Lanka visa process may take longer if the information in your official documents is not correct

The citizens of the following countries can apply for a Sri Lanka visa on arrival.

  • Citizens of Singapore can get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival for 30 days. This visa can be extended to 150 days.
  • Citizens of the Maldives can get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival for 30 days. This visa can be extended to 150 days.
  • Citizens of Seychelles can get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival for 60 days. This visa can be extended for a maximum of 90 days in a year.

Sri Lanka Visa from an Embassy

The citizens of the following countries can apply for a Sri Lanka visa from the embassy.

  • Afghanistan
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Cote d’Ivoire
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • North Korea
  • Republic of the Congo
  • Sierra Leone

How can I extend my Sri Lankan visa?

Your visa can be extended by submitting the application to the Department of Immigration in Sri Lanka. Remember to do so before the current visa expires.

For how long will my Sri Lanka visa be valid?

Sri Lanka's eTA visa is valid for 30 days and it can be extended in the country for an additional six months. The visa obtained through the embassy is valid for three months for a single, double, or multiple entry. The transit visa, on the other hand, is initially issued for two days.

What is the normal processing time for a Sri Lanka visa?

The normal visa processing time for Sri Lanka visa may take two to four working days. However, the process may take additional days.

Are Sri Lanka eVisa and eTA for Indian citizens the same?

Yes, the eVisa and eTA are the same, they can both be obtained online for visits to Sri Lanka.

How can I track my visa application?

You can check your visa application on the official website using the confirmation number, you receive after submitting the application, along with your passport number.

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Do you need a visa to go to Sri Lanka?

Jenny Elliott

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

sri lanka tourist visa from india

Do you need a visa to visit Sri Lanka? Probably, and we can tell you how to get one © Val Shevchenko / Shutterstock

Sri Lanka may be known as the teardrop isle (due to its distinctive shape), but the country’s refreshingly straightforward visa system shouldn’t be a source of too much anguish for travelers. 

Here’s our guide to navigating the entry requirements for visiting Sri Lanka as a tourist, with information on visa types, costs, and how to apply for one.

Who needs to apply for a visa for Sri Lanka?

With the exception of citizens from Singapore , the Republic of Maldives , and the Republic of Seychelles , all travelers will require a visa to visit Sri Lanka. Fortunately the process for acquiring one is relatively straightforward. 

Beach landscape, Mirissa, Matara, Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

For trips to Sri Lanka of up to 30 days, visas (also known as ETAs) can be obtained from the government’s Department of Immigration and Emigration website . The application involves completing a simple form and making an online payment, with no need to submit passport copies, documents, or photographs. An application is also available upon arrival.

It costs US$50 for a double-entry, 30-day tourist visa (US$20 for residents of Afghanistan , Bangladesh , Bhutan , India , Nepal , and Pakistan ). Two-day transit visas are free and only necessary if you plan to leave the airport. There is also no charge for tourist visas for children under the age of 12. 

Buddha statue at Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

It’s possible to check the status of an ETA online. Once approved, print out a copy of the ETA approval notice to show immigration officials on arrival in Sri Lanka. For an ETA to be valid, you must arrive in Sri Lanka within three months from the date of issue. 

ETAs can also be applied for through travel agents and in person at Sri Lankan embassies or consulates ahead of a trip. Embassies can offer longer visas, such as those granting entry for 90 days. 

In addition to an ETA, visitors to Sri Lanka need to make sure they have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival, a confirmed return ticket and sufficient funds to meet their expenses during the stay.

Can I apply for a tourist visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?

A limited facility runs at Bandaranaike International Airport (Sri Lanka’s main international airport), offering ETAs on arrival. These visas cost more than those obtained before travel (US$60; or US$25 for residents of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Pakistan). It’s also worth noting if your visa application is unsuccessful for any reason, you will be returned to your original destination.

Young man on the bow of a boat in a Sri Lankan lagoon

How do I extend a tourist visa in Sri Lanka?

You can renew a 30-day tourist visa up to three times once in Sri Lanka. The initial extension is usually granted for 60 days, and the maximum length of a tourist visa is 270 days. Visitors wishing to apply for an extension should make sure they do so before their current visa expires and must ensure their passport is valid for at least two months after their intended stay. 

Applications can be submitted via the online visa extension portal . The fee depends on your nationality and length of stay. Contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo should you need further advice on extending your stay.   

This article was first published March 2021 and updated October 2023

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Sri Lanka is offering free tourist visas to Indian visitors

By Preeti Shivani

Sri Lanka south coast stilt fishermen

Travelling to the beautiful island country of Sri Lanka just got easier. On 24 October, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry, took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce a waiver on the visa fee for tourists from India and six other countries. The new move allows Indians to avail of free tourist visas for visits to Sri Lanka, at least until 31 March, 2024.

Seven countries—India, Russia, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan—are part of this pilot program by the Sri Lankan foreign ministry. Up until September this year, Indian visitors constituted 20% of Sri Lanka’s total tourists. The move comes as an effort to revive the country’s tourism industry. The visa fee waiver is expected to attract more tourists and help reduce the amount of time and money they spend planning their trip to Sri Lanka. The country’s economy and tourism has picked up since the pandemic, with new hotels , restaurants and bars . The move also comes just as Sri Lanka approaches peak season .

Previously, Indian tourists were levied a $20 (about Rs1,663) visa application fee. The new program eliminates this fee entirely, although you would still have to apply for a visa prior to travelling. For a visa on arrival, you can request for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), an online system which provides approval for a double entry on short visits (upto 30 days, can extend upto 60 days) and transit entry (upto two days). This authorisation is issued electronically. Apply here . Limited facility to obtain ETA at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo is available for travellers who need to enter the country at the last minute. More information .

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  • The Complete Guide To Applying For A Sri Lanka Visa For Indians

18 Nov 2021

With a bevy of luxury resorts opening up along its gorgeous coastline, Sri Lanka is currently enjoying a surge in tourist numbers. The Ministry of Tourism has undertaken several initiatives recently to provide a boost to the sector. If you’re tempted to take advantage of the free Sri Lanka visa for Indians , we suggest you visit in the off season from May to August to find serenity and solitude in the calm, lovely beaches. Here’s all the info you need to know on Sri Lanka visa requirements for Indian citizens and how to apply.

Table Of Content

1. Sri Lanka Visa For Indians On Arrival 2. Where To Get It 3. Documents Required 4. Sri Lanka Visa For Indians In Advance 5. Where To Get It 6. Documents Required 7. Common Queries

Sri Lanka Visa For Indians On Arrival

Country’s vigorous efforts to boost tourism

Image Source Starting May 1, 2019, Sri Lanka will offer free visas on arrival to citizens of over 30 countries, including India. It is a part of the country’s vigorous efforts to boost tourism. The free S ri Lanka visa on arrival for Indian citizens would also be granted to other countries, including the USA, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the UK, Australia and more. Sri Lanka plans to run the campaign for at least six months. The campaign will be extended in case it is successful and lures more visitors to the country, especially in the monsoon season from May to August. It will save you between INR 1389/- and INR 2778/- in S ri Lanka on arrival visa fee for Indian .

Must Read: A Unique Blend of Nature, Culture & Adventure: Our Romantic Trip To Sri Lanka

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Where To Get It

Bandaranaike International Airport

Image Source We suggest you to decline the numerous offers by travel agents to handle your Sri Lanka visa application in India since most of these services are scams. A permanent system will be set up at Bandaranaike International Airport to issue visas on arrival in the foreseeable future, as is the practice in many countries. This procedure will be organized and hassle-free. It will take between 10 minutes to an hour depending on the tourist traffic. Before the new rules come into effect, tourists can only get a free transit visa if they visit Sri Lanka and stay for no more than two days.

Suggested Read: 15 Things To Do In Ella That Will Take Your Sri Lanka Trip To The Next Level

Documents Required

Sri Lanka Visa For Indians On Arrival

Image Source The documents required for applying for a visa vary according to the type of visa. The mandatory documentation that is required to be submitted for procuring a Sri Lanka visa for Indians on arrival is listed below:

  • A passport with at least 6 months validity. There should also be at least 2 unused pages in it for exit and entry stamps.
  • Xerox copy of the passport’s first and last page.
  • A filled Sri Lanka visa application form.
  • Three recent headshot photographs of the size 4X6 centimeters. If you wear specs, you’re advised to use transparent lenses since photographs of people wearing colored lenses are mostly rejected.
  • Proof of funds amounting to living expenses in Sri Lanka.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Villas In Mirissa To Soak In A Mesmerizing Sri Lankan Holiday Like Never Before!

Sri Lanka Visa For Indians In Advance

Sri Lanka government introduced a new ETA Visa

Image Source Indian tourists who plan to visit Sri Lanka will have to apply for an e-visa, also called the electronic travel authorisation (ETA). In January 2012 Sri Lanka government introduced a new ETA Visa for a short visit to Sri Lanka. Travelers from all over the world can apply e-visa for Sri Lanka online without having to visit an embassy or consulate.The e-visa costs INR 4,500. It takes about 24 hours to process and allows you to stay for up to 30 days.

Suggested Read: The Ultimate Guide To Sri Lanka’s Dambulla Cave Temple

Where To Get Sri Lanka Visa For Indians In Advance

Image Source The Sri Lanka visa for Indians in advance is issued electronically. Tourists can apply online for the ETA. The approval for the authority to enter Sri Lanka is further communicated via email. Applicants will receive their visas via email, after filling the application form with the necessary information and once the online credit card payment is completed. The entire process is quick and easy. Standard e-visas are issued within 3 working days, but please be aware that very occasionally there can be unforeseen technical problems which might cause delays.

Suggested Read: Viharamahadevi Park: A Handy Guide To Explore This Nature’s Paradise In Sri Lanka!

Xerox copy of the passport’s first and last page

Image Source It is advisable to keep a copy of the ETA approval with you to be produced at the port of entry in Sri Lanka. All ETA holders should fulfill the following requirements at the port of entry:

  • A passport with 6 months validity from the time of departure, along with a minimum of 2 unused pages in it for entry and exit stamps.
  • A recent passport size photo. The photo should strictly be of the size of 4X6 centimeters and ideally, have at least 80% of the area covered with the face.
  • A confirmed return ticket.
  • Personal bank statement of last three months duly stamped by the bank.

Further Read: Ceylon Tea Museum: The Perfect Spot To Relish The Taste Of The Authentic Sri Lankan Tea!

If you wish to extend your stay in Sri Lanka, an extension to your visa should be applied. Extension may or may not be granted depending upon the reason for the extension, and whether the Department of Immigration and Emigration is convinced that the applicant does intend to return to his/her country after the stay in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indian can be extended upto a maximum duration of six months. Book a trip to Sri Lanka at the earliest and experience the gorgeous coastlines of this idyllic island nation.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sri Lanka Visa For Indians

Can Indian citizens get a visa on arrival to Sri Lanka?

Yes, Sri Lanka’s visa on arrival for Indians is possible. You need to obtain the Sri Lanka ETA first which can be possible with iVisa. The document you receive is valid for 90 days, and then it will grant you double entry and you can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days per entry.

Is Sri Lanka visa-free for Indian citizens?

Indian passport will get you a free visa on arrival in Sri Lanka. The country has approved the issue on arrival visas to tourists from countries, like India and China and they are aiming to revive its flagging tourism sector.

How much does a Sri Lanka visa cost?

The Sri Lankan visa is $35 i.e INR 2491.67 for a tourist visa and it grants a 30 day stay in the country per entry. For a business visa, the cost is $40 i.e INR 2847.62.

Is Indian rupee valid in Sri Lanka?

It is not valid. You cannot exchange the INR for LKR in the country. Only the Sri Lankan rupee is accepted and since this is a closed country, you can get the currency only when you enter Sri Lanka.

Can Indian debit cards be used in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has a lot of ATMs across all its cities and it is preferable for Indian tourists to make use of their debit cards to withdraw local currency at the best rates. Visa (Plus), MasterCard (Cirrus and Maestro) and even AmEx are accepted.

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sri lanka tourist visa from india

Sri Lanka Visa for Indian Citizens

The island country of Sri Lanka is tourist-friendly and a delight to travel in. Its known for its tea gardens, sun-drenched beaches, and moody hillside getaways. In order to travel to this lovely sun-and-sand destination you need to procure a Sri Lanka Visa . The visa is a document which will seal your stay in the country so that you can witness its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and some extremely fun water activities. Plenty of Indian travellers visit Sri Lanka on their honeymoon, its even popular as a family holiday destination, and not to mention, a haven for backpackers and solo travellers. Ahead of planning your Sri Lanka trip, you need to consider how to get your Sri Lanka visa online , and what are the documents you need to prep for it.

Sri Lanka Visa Fees for Indian Citizens

Sri lanka visa for indians and how to apply.

An Indian citizen needs visa to travel to Sri Lanka. But the advantage is Indians can avail the Sri Lanka visa on arrival . ETA or Electronic Travel Authorisation is a document you need to ready beforehand, ahead of your travels to the country. In order to get your Sri Lanka visa application processed you need to ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your scheduled date of journey. You can attain the Sri Lanka eVisa online through an OTA like Yatra by filling up a basic form, uploading your documents online, paying the visa fee including the agent's commission online and then waiting for your documents to get processed. The Sri Lanka ETA is usually sent electronically to your email id within 3 days of filing your papers. It is mandatory to take out a print-out of this document and present it to the immigration officers at the airport when asked to submit. It is also suggested that you buy a travel insurance for your travels to Sri Lanka as the medical expenses in the country are mostly at par with India, and ensure that your insurance covers any sort of medical emergency. In addition to this, it offers you protection from loss of passport, loss of money, flight delay, delay in checked-in luggage, adventure sports among others.

Sri Lanka eVisa on Arrival

While a visa is a legal document to enter any country, an eVisa is always for a short-term visit. The Sri Lanka eVisa for Indians is an Electronic Travel Authorisation or ETA which is meant for a short-term visit to the island country for the purposes of tourism, transit or for business. Also called a Visit Visa, this entry permit implies consent from the Sri Lankan government to let a foreign national visit the country. The visa mentions the details of your stay which comprises the time you are going to be spending in the country and the conditions of your stay.

Sri Lanka Visa Types

In order to Sri Lanka eVisa apply online , you need to be apprised of the various types of short-terms visas you can apply for under eVisa on arrival.

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa : Such a visa is issued to bona-fide tourists whose sole purpose of a trip to Sri Lanka is tourism. A tourist visit visa is always a double entry visa. The purpose of a tourist visa can be sightseeing, holidaying, to meet friends and relatives, to seek medical treatment including yogic and Ayurvedic, and also to participate in sporting events, competitions, or to take part in a cultural performance.

Sri Lanka Business Visa : Such a visa is granted to foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka for purpose of conducting his business, and for a short period of time. Though there are several variations to this type of visa; it could be single entry, double entry or multiple entry visas. The business visa entails participating in business meetings and negotiations, to take part in conferences, seminars and workshops, to take part in a short-term training programme, to take part in a music, dance or art-related event, to take part in a symposium, and also to take part in religious events.

Sri Lanka Transit Visa : This visa is issued to those foreign nationals who would be transiting through Sri Lanka. This type of visa is valid for up to 2 days.

ETA to Sri Lanka, Validity and Fee for Indians

You need an Electronic Travel Authorisation or ETA to visit Sri Lanka for a short trip. This is an online system where the Sri Lanka eVisa application is also downloaded and filled up and then uploaded along with the requisite documents. The Sri Lanka eVisa processing time is approximately 3 days from submitting the forms online either directly to the Sri Lankan high commission or through your OTA. An ETA allows you to stay in Sri Lanka for no more than 30 days. The Sri Lanka eVisa fees for Indians , when they opt for a tourist visa is INR 2200, and in case you wish to get a ETA for business purposes, the fee is INR 2850 which is inclusive of the agent commission and the visa fee charged by the consulate of Sri Lanka.

How to Apply for Sri Lanka eVisa Online

You can easily apply for Sri Lanka eVisa online . This facility is enabled by the Sri Lankan government which has put this system in place where an Electronic Travel Authorisation or Electronic Visa is issued for short stays in Sri Lanka. This document is issued to travellers to Sri Lanka visiting for business or for the purpose of tourism by the Department of Immigration & Emigration, Colombo in Sri Lanka. This also applies to those who are transiting through Sri Lanka by way of a transit eVisa. You can online visa apply Sri Lanka with the help of an OTA since it is completely an online process where you need to download a simple form and fill up your personal and demographic details and then upload scanned copies of the mentioned documents. Your agent will then check the accuracy of these papers and intimate you in case any additional document is needed. Following which they will submit the eVisa Sri Lanka application to the Sri Lankan high commission, and within 3 working days the approval comes through from them which is then sent to your registered email id. The ETA replaces the need for a Sri Lanka stamp visa. A Sri Lanka eVisa online for Indians is very simple a process. You just need to visit your OTA website, select the type of visa you are looking for whether transit, business or tourist visa, each of which are short-term visas and are offered through ETA. You can download the visa form online and fill it up from the comfort of your home or office and then upload all the mentioned documents on the agent's portal. The agent verifies your document and sends it for approval. Expect your documents to get processed within 3 days. These visas allow for a maximum of 30 days stay in any part of Sri Lanka. But you need to ensure that you apply for the visa at least 3 months prior to your date of travel to Sri Lanka. While it is possible to get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival, but an eVisa saves you the hassle of waiting in long queues at immigration, filling up forms, getting your documents verified before obtaining your visa.

Apply for Sri Lanka eVisa Online with Yatra.com

An Indian citizen who is planning a trip to Sri Lanka can apply for his visa through Yatra. This short-term visa allows you a stay of up to 30 days in Sri Lanka, and is a double-entry visa. This is any day better than opting for a Sri Lanka visa on arrival as it eliminates the uncertainties involved in getting your visa form filled and documents submitted at the spot to get a approval. And then paying the visa fee too in local currency. By opting for an ETA, you can simply reach out to Yatra, choose the type of visa you wish to avail whether transit, business or tourist. Then go through the document requirement for each and submit a scanned copy of the originals online, post which you need to pay the visa fee which is inclusive of the agent commission. At Yatra for a tourist eVisa, the charges are INR 2200, whereas for a business eVisa the charges are INR 2850. Further to that, your documents are verified by the Yatra team for accuracy and then send off to the consulate for approval. You can expect your eVisa approval or ETA to come in within 48 hours on your registered email id. But you need to ensure that you apply for this document at least 3 months in advance of your scheduled date of departure.

Sri Lanka eVisa Documents Validity

The Sri Lanka eVisa validity is 30 days, and if it is a tourist visa then you can enter Sri Lanka twice and stay in the country for up to 30 days on each trip. The business visa, on the other hand, can be single-entry, double-entry and multiple-entry visas with the validity of Indian eVisa being a total of 30 days, depending on which option you choose. The ETA is offered to Indian travellers for a short visit to Sri Lanka and is an entirely electronic process, conveniently replacing the need for a stamp or sticker visa. An Indian passport holder needs to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation ahead of boarding his flight to Sri Lanka from India. The greatest advantage of this process is it saves time as you can apply for it online, submit your documents online, pay online and even receive the approvals online. The document is electronically linked to your passport number without providing any stamp on your passport. But you need to ensure you keep a clean print-out of this document to show it to the immigration officers upon arrival at the airport in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka tourist eVisa validity is for up to 6 months and the applicant can stay in the island nation for a period of up to 30 days on two different occasion. The processing time of this visa being up to 2 to 3 days. The Sri Lanka business visa validity is for 6 months, letting you stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days on each visit. This can be a single, double or multiple entry visa with the processing time being same as that of a tourist eVisa. A Sri Lanka business eVisa too can be procured online.

Sri Lanka Visa post-COVID Mandatory Documents

This applies to all international travellers entering Sri Lanka on a tourist visa. The new rule removes the minimum days of stay in Sri Lanka. Ahead of boarding your flight from India to Sri Lanka, these are the things you need to be apprised of.

  • - You need a valid eVisa ahead of boarding your flight. The facility of procuring a Sri Lanka visa on arrival is suspended for the time being.
  • - Ahead of applying for the visa you need to ensure you already have a confirmed booking at a level 1 ‘safe & secure certified' hotel/s for a period of up to 15 days, depending on the duration of your stay and vaccination status. You are allowed to stay in the hotel and use all its facilities on providing a negative on-arrival PCR test. You need to pay your hotel or your OTA a mandatory COVID-19 local travel insurance for a policy of up to USD 50,000 for a period of up to 1 month. This includes children below 2 years. You need to pay your hotel or OTA for the PCR tests, depending on the status of your vaccination.
  • - You need to show a negative RT-PCR test done within 72 hours of your flight's scheduled departure. Children under 2 years are excluded from doing this.
  • - Your airport transfers need to be organised by your L1 Safe & Secure Certified hotel, or your travel agent.
  • - All travellers need to undergo COVID-19 PCR test on day 1 of arrival.
  • - You need to furnish a completed health declaration form.
  • - You need to furnish your original vaccination certificate or card on arrival at the airport in Sri Lanka. The rules are different for fully-vaccinated, partially-vaccinated or not-vaccinated travellers. A fully-vaccinated traveller needs to undergo a COVID-19 RT-PCR test upon arrival in Sri Lanka, and then children of these travellers need to undergo an RT-PCR test 7 days after arrival; this is for children between 0 to 18 years.

Sri Lanka eVisa Document Requirements and Processing Time

The Sri Lanka eVisa requirements for Indians is in fact very simple. Once you have reached out to your OTA and decided which eVisa or ETA you wish to opt for, all you are left to do is make the payment for the visa fee and the agent's commission online and then upload all the necessary documents so that the agent can further send them for approval to the high commission. The Sri Lanka eVisa processing time is 24 to 48 hours from the time of submitting your documents online to your OTA. Among Sri Lanka eVisa requirements you need to file scanned copies of the following documents:

Sri Lanka tourist eVisa ETA:

  • - The ETA application form duly filled.
  • - Two recent coloured passport-size photographs.
  • - Confirmed return airfares from India to Sri Lanka and back.
  • - Proof of hotel accommodation during all days of your stay in Sri Lanka.
  • - A copy of the front and back pages of your passport. Your passport needs to have at least 6 months validity beyond your duration of stay in Sri Lanka, and have a minimum of 3 blank pages.
  • - Your travel insurance. This is an increasingly important document following the COVID crisis.

Sri Lanka Business eVisa ETA:

  • - Confirmed air tickets for the onward and return journey.
  • - A copy of the front and back pages of the passport. The passport needs to have no less than 6 months validity which is beyond the tenure of your stay in Sri Lanka, and comprise a minimum of 3 blank pages.
  • - A cover letter from the Indian organisation you are representing.
  • - Invitation from the Sri Lankan company needs to be attached to the visa application, and a copy of the same also needs to be sent to the Sri Lankan host company.
  • - Your travel insurance. A very important document considering the current COVID situation.

Sri Lanka Transit eVisa ETA:

  • - A scanned copy of the first and last pages of your passport.
  • - Confirmed onward airfare.
  • - Your travel insurance, a very crucial document given the current COVID crisis.
  • - A copy of the visa to the final destination of your travel.

Extension of an eVisa to Sri Lanka

You can apply for an extension of your ETA before its expiry. The extensions are typically provided in 3 month blocks, and a maximum duration of a tourist visa is 6 months.

Documents Required for Extension of a SriLankaTourist ETA:

  • - Duly filled and signed tourist visa extension application form.
  • - Original passport of the applicant.
  • - A recent coloured passport-size photograph of 3.5*4.5 cm
  • - Proof of funds required to cover your expenses for an extended stay.
  • - Proof of return air tickets
  • - Other supporting documents to justify an extension request

How to apply for an Extension of a SriLanka Tourist eVisa

You can apply for an extension locally at the Immigration Services Centre in Colombo. You need to either do it directly or through third party and hand over the completed application form along with the fee. Then your application is submitted to the Department of Immigration for processing, post which you are allowed to collect the processed passport. You have the option of picking up the passport directly from the service centre or you can have it couriered to you for a nominal fee.

Documents required for extension of a SriLanka Business ETA:

The extension of a business eVisa is typically given in a 3 month blocks and allows for a maximum stay of 12 months for a business eVisa.

  • - Duly filled application form for business ETA extension.
  • - A recent coloured passport-size photograph of 3.5*4.5 cm dimensions.
  • - A visa request letter from the local business partner.
  • - The host Sri Lankan company's business registration documents.

How to apply for an Extension of a Sri Lanka Business eVisa

You can apply for your business eVisa extension directly at the Immigration Services Centre located locally in Colombo. You need to hand over the application along with the fee, and you will be notified the approximate time required to collect your passport. The application is then submitted to the Department of Immigration for processing, and you can then collect your passport. You have the choice of collecting your passport directly from the centre, or you can get it delivered to you for a nominal fee.

Sri Lanka eVisa Fee for Indians

The Sri Lanka eVisa fees for Indians depends on which category of eVisa or ETA you opt for. The Sri Lanka eVisa fee for a tourist visa if you get it done through Yatra is INR 2200. This Sri Lanka eVisa price is inclusive of the agent commission. The Sri Lanka eVisa cost in case you wish to get a business visa is INR 2850 which includes the visa fee charged by the Sri Lankan high commission and Yatra's commission.

Benefits of a pre-approved Sri Lanka eVisa on Arrival

There are a number of benefits of getting an ETA to Sri Lanka. Here we list a few:

  • - The approval of such a visa comes through in 24 to 48 hours.
  • - It doesn't require a stamp on your passport from the immigration, just a copy of the ETA papers need to be displayed to the immigration at the airport and you are allowed entry.
  • - The ETA form can be filled up from the comfort of your office or home and filed directly to your OTA, who will check for its accuracy.
  • - For a Sri Lanka visa on arrival, you need to wait in long queues at the immigration where you need to fill up the form, submit the requisite documents, pay the fee. The ETA saves all this hassle and uncertainties involved with getting a visa on the spot, and you can simply show your ETA paper and cruise your way out of the airport.
  • - Since your documents are checked by the OTA before filing it to the high commission, in all probability your visa request would be granted.
  • - The process of payment too is an easy one. Just have to hop onto the agent's payment gateway and make payment using net banking or any major debit or credit card.
  • - You can apply for a tourist or business ETA anytime you wish to, and even get an approval within 48 hours. But ensure your hotels and flights are booked before you apply for your eVisa.
  • - And since you have already made the payment for your ETA, you no more have to arrange for sufficient local currency at the airport to pay the visa fee for a Sri Lanka visa on arrival.
  • - This is a very handy service as it helps those who are travelling at a very short notice or have an impromptu trip coming up in Sri Lanka.
  • - It saves the hassle of carrying too many original documents for verification at the airport. In this case only your original passport is enough along with your ETA papers. But make sure you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Sri Lanka.

Malaysia Visa

How to apply malaysia visa for indians.

For all Indian citizens planning to travel to Malaysia need to first get their visas. An advantage most Indians can enjoy is the provision of a Malaysia visa on arrival , letting you exit the airport without the hassle of going through lengthy immigration procedures. But ahead of getting your Malaysia visa application processed, there are a set of documents you need to ready beforehand and upload it on your OTA's portal. The process of procuring a Malaysia eVisa online is a rather simple one. It is granted for the purposes of both business and tourism, and allows multiple entries, letting you stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days though it comes with a validity of 90 days from the date of issue. To get a Malaysia eVisa, you need to submit the first and last pages of your passport, confirmed return air tickets from India to Malaysia and back to India, proof of accommodation for all days of stay in Malaysia, a recent coloured passport-size photograph, the birth certificate copy in case you have a minor travelling with you, and a cover letter in case you are staying with your family or a particular business is hosting you. Once you have uploaded all these documents and paid the visa fee, the agent will then go through your documents, fill up the application form on your behalf and send them to the high commission for processing. You can expect the approvals or the eVisa to land in your mailbox within 72 hours. But there is another visa type called eNTRI visa which is also a visa letter granted online, and your OTA can help you procure it, in which your visa has a total validity of 3 months from the date of issue, and lets you stay in Malaysia for a period of up to 15 days, and is a single-entry visa. This visa too requires a set of documents in order for it to be issued, and gets processed faster within 24 hours.

Malaysia eVisa on Arrival

The Malaysia eVisa is a multiple-entry visa allowing you a total stay of up to 30 days in the country and comes with a validity of 90 days from the date of issue. The Malaysia eVisa for Indians is essentially an electronic visa approval letter that grants you an entry into the country for the purposes of both business and tourism. The eVisa necessitates you to submit a set of documents online with your travel agent and await the 72 day period for your approvals to come through. You can even apply for a Malaysia eNTRI visa which has a shorter validity, and hence warrants a shorter stay in Malaysia. The process for acquiring which also is the same, though the approvals come in faster between a period of 12 to 24 hours, unlike the Malaysia eVisa which takes anywhere in between 48 to 72 hours. Though it would be longer if there's a weekend or a public holiday in between, for both the visa types.

Malaysia Visa Types

Before you go ahead with the Malaysia eVisa apply online process, you need to be apprised of the categories of visas you can apply for, and which most suits your needs. Among the major visas granted to Indian citizens comprise:

Malaysia Single-Entry Visa : As the name suggests, this is a single-entry visa granted to foreigners who wish to travel to Malaysia for the purposes of tourism alone. Such a visa is valid for up to 3 months from the date of issue.

Malaysia Multiple-Entry Visa or eVisa: The multiple-entry Malaysia eVisa is issued to foreigners you wish to travel to Malaysia for the purposes of business or tourism. The validity of this visa is 90 days from the date of issue, and it is a multiple-entry visa entailing a total stay of up to 30 days. It should be noted that such a visa cannot be extended. This type of visa is provided only to Chinese and Indian citizens. In order to get a multiple-entry eVisa you need to submit proof of sufficient funds, confirmed return flight tickets, proof of accommodation, aside from a recent, coloured photograph and the front and back covers of your passport.

Malaysia Transit Visa : Such a visa is issued to foreigners who would be entering Malaysia in order to transit to other countries. But in case the traveller shall not be leaving the airport, they would not need to apply for a transit visa. This visa is needed, if and only if, you are going to be leaving the airport and residing in Malaysia for a very short period of time. There are certain countries that do not enjoy a visa-free entry to Malaysia, for they need to obtain a free transit pass for stays of up to 120 hours while transiting through the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You need to have an onward ticket from the Kuala Lumpur airport, and the flight needs to be either by Malaysia Airlines or AirAsia. The citizens of Bhutan, China, Myanmar, and Nepal are eligible for a free transit pass. However, citizens of countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India are only eligible for a free transit pass in case they are holders of a residence permit issued either by Taiwan, South Korea, New Zealand, Japan, China, USA or Australia, and are arriving or departing from any of the mentioned countries.

Malaysia eNTRI Visa: eNTRI stands for Electronic Travel Registration and Information system, and is a facility available only to Indian and Chinese citizens. This electronic travel authorisation grants the applicant a stay of up to 15 days in Malaysia. Under the eNTRI visa waiver programme, the visa comes with a total validity of 3 months from the date of issue, is a single-entry visa, and offered for the purposes of tourism alone. This kind of visa is not extendable. It is very easy to get this kind of visa; you just need to send some basic documents like passport front and back covers, a recent passport-size photo, proof of accommodation, and confirmed return air tickets, and your OTA will do the needful of filling up the form and compiling your papers to send it to the consulate who typically process an eNTRI visa within 24 hours, unless there is a public holiday or a weekend in between. But once you have been granted an eNTRI visa, you need to wait for up to 3 months or 90 days before you can apply for a fresh eNTRI visa.

Malaysia Visa on Arrival : Indians cannot get a visa on arrival to Malaysia. They would have to procure their eVisa whether a multiple-entry eVisa or an eNTRI visa beforehand in order to qualify to enter the peninsula. But this visa on arrival is available on certain conditions. Chinese and Indian citizens who are arriving to Malaysia directly from Indonesia, Singapore or Thailand, and have a valid visa for any of these three nations can get a visa on arrival in Malaysia that grants you a stay of up to 7 days. You can get this visa on arrival from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, aside from the airports in Penang, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu. To get this sort of visa you need to provide a confirmed return air ticket and proof of funds that you have at least $1000 to support your stay. To get a Malaysia visa on arrival, you need to pay 407 Malaysian Ringgit in local currency. No other currency is accepted for the payment of your Malaysia visa on arrival.

Malaysia Medical eVisa : This kind of visa is available to patients wishing to visit Malaysia for a medical treatment, procedures and services. In order to apply for a Malaysia online medical visa you need to meet certain requirements including making an appointment with a Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) member hospital, and need to submit the appointment letter issued by the concerned hospital. The medical eVisa lets you stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days. You need to apply for such a visa at least 14 working days ahead of your scheduled departure. The medical eVisa is a single-entry visa, and is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

E-visa to Malaysia, Validity and Fee for Indians

If you are looking forward to a short vacation in Malaysia, or are planning to make a trip to explore business opportunities or attend a business meeting, conference, seminar or workshop, you can get yourself a Malaysia eVisa which serves the purpose or both business and tourism. The process of getting your eVisa too is rather simple. The Malaysia eVisa application is filled up by your OTA upon the submission of photocopies of the requisite documents. Post this they scan your papers and together with the application form forward the same to the Malaysia high commission who further process the document. The Malaysia eVisa processing time is between 48 to 72 hours, with the eVisa sent to your email address by your chosen agent.The Malaysia eVisa fees for Indians in case you wish to get it done through Yatra is INR 3500. Though for the eNTRI visa which is also an electronic approval, but warrants a shorter stay of no more than 15 days, the fee is INR 2200. But this is only a tourist visa, and does not permit you to travel for business purposes.

How to Apply for Malaysia eVisa Online

The procedure for apply Malaysia eVisa online is rather simple. The provision of eVisa was introduced in 2016 by the government of Malaysia letting travellers from India visit Malaysia whether for the purpose of tourism or business. You can accomplish the entire online visa apply Malaysia electronically. All you need to do is reach out to an OTA, submit scanned copies of documents like passport front and back covers, a recently taken coloured passport-size photograph as per specifications, confirmed return air tickets, hotel booking vouchers, a cover letter in case you are going to stay with a family or are being hosted by a business. Once you have uploaded these documents, you need to pay the visa fee using your OTA's payment gateway. Post this your OTA will pick up your documents, check them for their authenticity, and fill up the eVisa Malaysia application form on your behalf. Then they would pass on your papers to the high commission who would process your documents and send you an approval in the form of an eVisa, which is emailed to you by your OTA within 72 hours, provided it doesn't fall on a weekend or a public holiday. The Malaysia eVisa online for Indians is an extremely easy process, and doesn't require too many documents. But you need to decide first whether you wish to apply for a eVisa or an eNTRI visa which is also granted electronically but entails a shorter stay.

How to Apply for Malaysia eNTRI Visa

eNTRI stands for Electronic Travel Registration and Information system, under which Indian citizens get a visa waiver which lets them stay in the country for up to 15 days for the purposing of travelling only, and not business. The validity of such a visa is 3 months from the date of issue, is a single-entry visa, and cannot be extended. The process of applying for such a visa is pretty much the same as a Malaysia eVisa, where you need to reach out to an OTA and submit document like the front and back covers of your passport, cover letter in case you are going to put up with a local family, confirmed return air tickets, proof of accommodation, and a coloured, passport-size photograph. Once these documents have been uploaded on your OTA's portal, you need to pay the visa fee which is typically lesser than that of an eVisa. Your agent will then go through your papers, fill up the eNTRI visa application form on your behalf and forward the same to the high commission for processing. The approvals for such a visa come in to your email id too and take about 24 hours to get processed, provided it doesn't fall on a weekend and there are no public holidays in the interim.

Apply for Malaysia eVisa online with Yatra

In order to apply for a Malaysia eVisa, you can head to Yatra's Malaysia visa page, and choose Malaysia eVisa. This visa comes with a validity of 90 days and permits a total stay of up to 30 days in Malaysia and is a multiple-entry visa, and can be used for both business or tourism purposes. To get such a visa you need to upload copies of some basic documents such as the front and back covers of your passport, hotel confirmation voucher, confirmed return air tickets, a recent coloured passport-size photograph as per specifications, and a cover letter in case your are being hosted by a local family or a business. After uploading these documents, you need to pay the visa fee which includes the amount charged by the government of Malaysia and Yatra's commission. You need to pay INR 3500 inclusive of everything to get your eVisa processed. Post this the Yatra team will pick up your documents, go through their authenticity, fill up the application form on your behalf and send the same to the consulate or high commission. You can expect to receive your eVisa between 48 to 72 hours, considering there are no public holidays in between or weekend. The eVisa is sent by Yatra to your registered email address.

Apply for Malaysia eNTRI Visa with Yatra

This kind of visa too has a validity of 3 months but warrants a total stay of 15 days in Malaysia. This is a single-entry visa, with the purpose of travel being strictly tourism, and falls under the Malaysian government's visa waiver programme. You cannot get this visa extended. You can apply for a Malaysia eNTRI visa through Yatra by uploading the front and back covers of the passport, confirmed return air tickets, proof of accommodation, a recent, coloured passport-size photograph, a cover letter in case you are going to be staying with a family in Malaysia. After uploading these documents, you need to pay the visa fee which inclusive of Yatra's commission comes up to INR 2200. Then the Yatra team will go through your documents, fill up the visa application form and forward the same to the Malaysian high commission for processing. The eNTRI visa approval too is sent online, to your registered email id, by Yatra. You can expect to get the approval for such a visa between 12 to 24 hours, subject to the fact that there is no weekend or public holiday in the interim.

Malaysia eVisa Documents Validity

The Malaysia eVisa validity is 3 months from the date of issue. This is a multiple-entry visa warranting a total stay of up to 30 days across Malaysia, and you can use it for both business or tourism purposes. The validity of Indian eVisa is a total of 90 days whether you opt for an eVisa or an eNTRI visa. The eNTRI visa on the other hand lets you stay in the country for a total of 15 days, and is a single-entry visa provided only for the purposes of tourism. The visa fee depends on which category of visa you opt for, whether eVisa or an eNTRI visa which is for a shorter stay. The Malaysia tourist eVisa validity is 90 days from the date of issue. The Malaysia business visa validity is also the same as it falls under the same category of visa, an eVisa, which serves the purpose of both business and tourism, and hence the terms and conditions in both cases remain the same.

Malaysia Visa Post-COVID Mandatory Documents

In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a few restrictions have been put in place for travel to Malaysia. Some of these include:

  • - You need to download and activate MySejahtera, a contact tracing app in your mobile.
  • - You need to further fill up the health declaration form in the aforesaid app.
  • - You need to undergo a COVID-19 test in your home country no more than 3 days prior to your scheduled departure, and need to also test negative in the same. You are required to carry the original report for verification at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
  • - After checking out of the airport you need to undergo quarantine at designated quarantine centres for a period of 10 days. You need to bear the cost of quarantine, and for the same it is ideal if you travel with a robust travel insurance package that covers the cost of COVID-related hospitalisation, in case there is a need.
  • - At the end of day 10 you need to once more take a COVID-19 test, and would be free to travel around in the country only if you tested negative.

Malaysia eVisa or eNTRI Visa Document Requirements and Processing Time

The Malaysia eVisa requirements for Indians is a rather simple one. To procure the same you need to get in touch with an OTA who will help you get the necessary approvals. After filing scanned copies of the necessary documents online, you need to pay the visa fee which includes the agent commission as well. Further to that the OTA will go through your papers, fill up the visa application form and send the same to the Malaysia high commission for processing. The Malaysia eVisa processing time is between 48 to 72 hours. But if you opt for the shorter duration eNTRI visa then the visa comes in much faster, within 12 to 24 hours. The Malaysia eVisa requirements entail a set of documents whose scanned copies you need to post on the website of your OTA, for them to do the needful from there on. The documents you need to get a Malaysia eVisa or an eNTRI visa include:

  • - Scanned copies of the front and back covers of your passport.
  • - Soft copy (not scanned) of a studio-clicked coloured photograph as per immigration specifications.
  • - Confirmed return flight tickets showing your journey from India to Malaysia and back.
  • - Confirmed hotel booking vouchers accounting for all days of your stay in Malaysia.
  • - A cover letter in case you are going to be staying with a family locally, or are being hosted by a business (in case of an eVisa)

Malaysia eVisa fee for Indians

The Malaysia eVisa fees for Indians is an amount you need to pay online using your OTA's payment gateway. The Malaysia eVisa fee is basically a sum which includes the fee charged by the Malaysia high commission, and the agent's commission who is helping you get the approvals. You can easily use Yatra's services which specialises in Malaysia eVisas. The Malaysia eVisa price in case you are planning to get it done by Yatra is INR 3500, and this includes the fee payable to the government of Malaysia and the agent commission. The Malaysia eVisa cost is the same for tourist or business eVisa, because they fall in the same category of visa, the eVisa, which lets you travel to Malaysia for the purposes of business or tourism and stay there for up to 30 days while the validity of your visa is 90 days from the date of issue, and the high-point being it is a multiple-entry visa.

Malaysia eNTRI visa fee for Indians

The eNTRI visa is issued to Indian citizens travelling to Malaysia only for the purposes of tourism. This single-entry visa while having a validity of 3 months from the date of issue lets you stay in the country for no more than 15 days. What more, this category of visa which falls under the Malaysian government's visa waiver programme is not extendable. In order to get this visa, you can approach Yatra who will help you with the documentation in order to get your eNTRI visa processed. The eNTRI visa fee is INR 2200 which includes the fee payable to the government of Malaysia and Yatra's commission.

Benefits of a Malaysia eVisa, or an eNTRI Visa

There are numerous benefits of getting an eVisa or an eNTRI visa. We list a few:

  • - The entire procedure takes place electronically, whether eVisa or eNTRI visa, saving you the time of making rounds of the embassy for obtaining forms and filling them up, and once more turning up with all documents for the visa interview.
  • - If you are planning to travel to Malaysia on a short notice this format of visa comes in most handy as after completion of the documentation the approvals come in within 72 hours in case of a eVisa and 24 hours in case of an eNTRI visa.
  • - An eVisa saves you the time of going through lengthy immigration procedures at the airport as your documents are already in place which you need to display along with your original passport, and quickly exit the airport.
  • - It is a very simple and hassle-free process that can be achieved from the comfort of your home or office. All you need is a reliable agent like Yatra to carry out the procedure on your behalf.
  • - The other major benefit of getting an eVisa is that you simply need to submit scanned copies of original documents and do not need to send your original documents anywhere, and neither do you need to carry them to the airport. Post uploading the documents online and paying the visa fee, it is your OTA who fills up the visa application form on your behalf and even forward all your papers to the embassy on your behalf, the approvals too come in online, into your registered email address that too in quick time, which you can never achieve by taking the embassy route.

How to get a Malaysia eNTRI visa - Types

The process of acquiring a Malaysia eNTRI visa is just the same as an eVisa. You need to first zero in on an OTA. You could pick Yatra since it specialises in Malaysia visas. Further you need to choose the visa type, in this case eNTRI visa and upload the aforesaid documents online and pay the visa fee through the payment gateway. Yatra charges INR 2200 for an eNTRI visa which includes the amount payable to the Malaysia high commission and Yatra's agent commission. Post the payment of fee, the Yatra team will go through your documents and check for their veracity before filling up the visa application form on your behalf. Further on, they would forward all your documents to the Malaysia high commission for processing. You can expect to get your approval, the eNTRI note within 12 to 24 working hours of Yatra sending the documents for processing. But this is subject to the fact that there are no public holidays or weekend in the interim. Once you get the approval letter, you need to take a print-out and keep it handy upon landing in Malaysia for displaying it at immigration.

COVID Protocols to be followed after getting a Malaysia eNTRI Visa

There are a set of documents you need to keep handy while travelling to Malaysia upon procuring the eNTRI visa. These include:

  • - You need to download and activate the contact tracing app called MySejahtera, and fill up the health declaration form using the app, providing details about your vaccination status etc.
  • - You need to submit an original RT-PCR test report done 3 days ahead of your date of travel at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Not to mention, you are allowed to travel only if you test negative in the test.
  • - After arriving in Malaysia, you need to quarantine yourself for 10 days at the country's designated quarantine centres. The quarantine expense needs to be borne by the traveller. At the end of 10 days you need to do another COVID-19 test. Only if you test negative in the same will you be free to explore around in Malaysia.

FAQs on getting a Sri Lanka eVisa or ETA:

Q. What are the documents required for getting a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival?

Q. What is the fee for getting a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival?

Q. How can I apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival?

Q. What is the processing time for a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival?

Q. What should be the validity of my passport to apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa on arrival?

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That Goan Girl

Traveling to Sri Lanka from India? Here’s all you need to know!

The Pearl of the Orient – Sri Lanka is an extraordinary country. This tropical paradise boasts sleepy villages, lip-smacking food, swoon-worthy beaches, endless tea plantations, abundant wildlife, well-organized cities, and friendly, hospitable people. This jewel-shaped country in the Indian Ocean has so much to offer but has been getting a bad rep due to its poor economic standing.

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka from India, don’t hesitate to book those tickets and experience the beauty the country is bursting with. Here’s everything you need to know to help you plan your Sri Lankan getaway.

sri lanka tourist visa from india

Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka?

Don’t believe everything the Indian media feeds you. Sri Lanka is safe to travel to in 2023. It is a fact that the country has faced a lot of civil strife and shortages of food, fuel, medicines, and essentials on and off over the last few years. All this has been brought on by the deteriorating economic situation in the country. Before that, the country was affected by natural disasters, COVID-19, and inflation. All this has led to a lot of political unrest and mass protests.

While the country has had a couple of tough years, as of May-June 2023 when I visited, it was safe, peaceful, and beautiful. The people are peace-loving and hospitable and there is no shortage of food, fuel, FOREX, electricity, or anything else. However, it is always a good idea to keep abreast of the happenings in Sri Lanka (or any country) before you plan your trip.

How do I get a visa to Sri Lanka?

Indians require a visa to enter Sri Lanka, and you can either get one online beforehand or get a visa on arrival. For visa on arrival, make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months before you fly. Alternatively, getting your visa/ ETA (Electronic Travel Allowance) before you travel is easy to do and allows for a stress-free trip. A Sri Lanka tourist visa will cost $20 and grant a 30-day stay in the country with double entry.

To get your Sri Lanka Visa/ ETA, apply to the official website and receive an acknowledgment. You will receive the ETA approval within 3 days. You will need to carry a printout of this to submit to the immigration officers at the airport. The ETA approval certificate is valid for 180 days after being issued.

What’s the best way to travel in Sri Lanka?

If you’ve been a reader of ThatGoanGirl for a while, you’ll know my love for road trips . The roads in Sri Lanka make for absolutely stunning road trips, and if I have to pick the best mode of travel in the country, a self-drive car would be it. The endless stretches of greenery, great road conditions, and the fact that everyone follows traffic rules make driving a fun experience.

That apart, the places to visit in Sri Lanka are 3-4 hours away from each other, so you won’t be spending all day driving and yet, can have your fill of beautiful drives without wasting days on the road. Granted, it is more expensive than other options, but if you’re traveling with family (or even if you’re not), there’s nothing better. I work extensively while on the road, and I love working in the car, stopping for roadside tea/coffee, pausing to admire the scenery whenever I fancy, and driving through little villages and fields. More on renting a car below.

sri lanka tourist visa from india

If self-driving is not an option, don’t worry. The transport system in Sri Lanka is efficient and affordable. Uber works just fine and you will always find an Uber tuk-tuk or Uber cab options available. no matter where you are. You can also flag down a taxi or tuk-tuk from anywhere, which is good if you know how much your fare to your destination should be and can converse in the local language. Otherwise, be prepared to pay whatever the driver asks for.

Lastly, you can travel from city to city by train, and much like the Indian Railways, you can either book your ticket online or visit the counter at the train station on or before the day of travel. There are a/c coaches and non-a/c coaches and you can choose to pay for a meal or not.

How do I get an international driving license in Sri Lanka?

Getting a temporary driving permit or an international driving license in Sri Lanka is fairly easy. In my case, the car rental company I chose in Colombo (ShineAway Cars) got all the formalities done, even before I landed in the country. For a fee of USD 35, they took care of it all and all I had to do was send them a copy of my passport, driver’s license, and a photograph.

To get a Sri Lanka driving license as a foreigner, you have two options:

  • Get an International Driving License/ Permit (or IDL / IDP, for short)

Get an IDL or IDP that you have obtained in your home country. For Indians, that means heading to your local RTO (Road Transport Office) with your Indian driving license and documents such as a Form 4A Application, a valid Passport, a valid Visa (where applicable), a valid air ticket (for verification) and proof of Indian Nationality. This license will be valid for a year or up to the expiry of your Indian license, whichever comes first.

  • Use your home-country driving license to get a temporary driving license

If you hold a Foreign Driving License (and Indian Driving License, in my case), you must obtain a temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to be able to drive legally in Sri Lanka. Head to the DMV, which is 30 mins from central Colombo, in a place called Werahera. It is open from Mon-Fri, 9 AM-3 PM, except on Sri Lankan holidays. The process may take 30 minutes and go up to a few hours. If your license is not in English, a translation by the respective Embassy or any authority in each country is required. Carry these documents:

  • Driving License from your country (English copy/ translation if not in English) + photocopy
  • Your Passport + photocopy of profile/photo page and Sri Lankan Visa page

What places should I visit in Sri Lanka?

From the tea plantations of Ella to the beaches of Galle , Sri Lanka is a diverse country, offering much to see and do. Depending on the number of days you have in hand, your budget, and your style of travel (slow travel, checklist travel, backpacking, long holiday, long /short weekend getaway) – you can curate your itinerary accordingly.

On my trip to Sri Lanka, I visited Colombo, Kandy , Ella, Galle, and Negombo over 2 weeks. I’ll be writing detailed itineraries and posts about these places, so be sure to check them out. Other places I’d like to visit on future trips include the beaches of Mirissa, Bentota, and Arugam Bay, as well as Sigiriya for ancient city ruins and rock fortresses, and Nuwara Eliya for endless tea plantation views. Some other less popular destinations include Unawatuna (yet another beautiful beach town), Udawalave National Park, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, and Minneriya National Park.

What’s the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

Like South India, the weather in Sri Lanka is hot and humid throughout the year, especially since Sri Lanka lies on the equator. It is best to travel between December and May when the temperature is cooler. If you like avoiding crowds and the thought of rain spells for days refreshes you, you could consider visiting during the monsoons. My trip lasted from 24th May – 6th June, so while I did get the fag end of the hot, humid days, I also enjoyed Sri Lanka’s first rain showers, which brought the mercury down for a bit.

Flights – costs, layovers, durations.

There are direct flights from Mumbai , Delhi , Bangalore, and Chennai to Sri Lanka’s Bandaranaike International Airport – the only airport you can fly into, located in Negombo, an hour’s drive from the capital city of Colombo. From Bangalore and Chennai, the flights are an hour long.

Pro Tip – For all my local Goan readers, I’d suggest flying to and from Sri Lanka via Bangalore. While the flight time is the same, whether you fly in/out from Bangalore or Chennai, Chennai airport is one of the saddest airports you’ll ever come across. Bangalore airport offers much more to do and see. It is also more comfortable and has better choices of restaurants, cafes, and seating. Pick a flight that has a layover of around 4 hours. From Goa to Colombo, a one-way ticket would cost around INR 12,000 with a stop at Bangalore or Chennai, while a one-way ticket from Bangalore or Chennai to Colombo would cost around INR 6000 – INR 7000.

Where do I exchange currency in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) are not widely available in India, and I was surprised that not even Bangalore Airport had the currency available at the FOREX counter, given that it is one of the top 2 airports to fly to Sri Lanka from. Your best bet would be to exchange money as you exit Colombo Airport. While the rate will not be as high as you would get elsewhere (since tourists have no choice but to exchange at whatever rate they get, the counters have the upper hand and offer low rates), it is a good idea to exchange more than enough money here to last you the initial 1-2 days.

Once you get your bearings, you will find several money exchange stores in Colombo and elsewhere offering you a much better exchange rate. I’d recommend exchanging your money in Colombo rather than anywhere else. Since it is a city, you have more money exchanges and ATMs available than you would find elsewhere.

What local SIM card works best in Sri Lanka?

Buying a SIM card in Sri Lanka is as easy as it is in India. They are available at local markets and shops. From experience as digital nomads, we picked up two SIM cards from two different providers to ensure that at least one works in low-network areas. Wi-FI is available at most hotels, cafes, and Airbnbs, but getting a SIM card is important, especially for phone data for Google Maps and Whatsapp. I recommend buying a local SIM card at the airport in Colombo. Major network providers like Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel have the counters here. You’ll need a photo ID and you’re good to go.

Is it expensive to visit Sri Lanka? What should my Sri Lanka budget look like?

I get this question a lot, and I never have an answer. Your budget will be based on several factors – how long your trip is, how many places you’d like to see, do you plan to travel via public transport/cab/self-drive car, do you plan to stay in Airbnbs, budget hotels, luxury hotels or hostels? Do you value dining experiences, art, history, and nature and would splurge on a visit to a museum, a fine dining meal, a visit to a hatchery or national park… or would you like to spend your days eating street food, backpacking and lazing on the beach? There is no one-size-fits-all budget for Sri Lanka.

However, it is *not* cheap to visit. The country is not a budget destination, at least according to Indian standards. Be prepared to pay anywhere from 20-40% more for everything – fuel, food, shopping, stays, and more, and this is purely due to inflation.

I hope you found this blog post helpful. If you’ve got any more FAQs you’d like me to answer, drop me a comment and I’ll get to it as soon as I can. Catch me on Facebook and Instagram !

You may also enjoy:

Varkala uncovered: exploring spectacular cliffs and tranquil …, 10 beautiful hotels in south goa to stay …, 10 worthwhile things to do in colombo, sri …, 15 best places to travel alone, 12 comments.

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Hello, how was the rental car company you used? No problems?

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Hi! It was a great experience. Hassle-free and no problems at all.

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Pl send me yr detailed itenary along with accommodation details etc. I intend visiting SL in the month of end Feb.

Hi, I’ve written a detailed blog about each place I visited as well as a 14-day itinerary. https://www.thatgoangirl.com/my-14-day-sri-lanka-itinerary/

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Hello! This is a great blog, some very useful tips. Just wanted to check if the roads are safe to drive (for someone who has driven around in India)

Yes, the roads are an absolute pleasure to drive on! People follow traffic rules, the conditions of the roads are great and if you can drive in India, this will be a cakewalk!

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That lot of info…thanks

My pleasure! Hope it helps you on your trip.

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This is great, liked your simple messages and information provided!

Thanks, Anurag! I appreciate your comment 🙂

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Great article. I’d also suggest a good tip on money in Sri Lanka. ATMs are a good way of getting cash and you can use apps like ATM Fee Saver – it helps finding the fee-free and lower fee ATMs in the region along with withdrawal limits for foreign card holders. worth adding to your list of tricks!

Thanks Paula, that’s very neat! I didn’t know about this app. I’ll definitely look it up and include it.

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Sri Lanka tourist visa

Sri Lanka is an island nation with beautiful beaches, pristine landscapes and ancient temples. It is a beautiful country that is worth visiting.

Why Visit Sri Lanka

There are many reasons that make Sri Lanka worth visiting. These include –

  • A multicultural nation
  • Year-long festivities
  • Natural diversity
  • Rich history
  • Ranked as a prominent wellness tourism destination

Travel destinations within Sri Lanka provide a range of diverse holiday experiences for a traveler.

As an Indian citizen, you do not require a visa to travel to the country. You can visit the country with an Electronic Travel Authorisation or ETA that allows you to stay in the country for 30 days.

Here are some details on the ETA and the process of getting your travel visa. Citizens of every country except Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles require an ETA to visit Sri Lanka.

Application Process:

The application for the ETA can be done online on the official website or other websites that work in partnership with the Sri Lankan government. You should apply for the ETA at least 90 days before your scheduled date of travel. So, you must apply for the ETA three months before your trip.

The application process involves filling out a form and paying service and government fees. In fact, the application process takes a few minutes and your visa will be processed in 24 hours. The fees however depend on the type of visa.

Requirements for the ETA:

  • A scanned passport
  • Valid e-mail address
  • Approved means of payment

The validity of ETA:

The two types of ETA are ‘short stay’ and the ‘transit’ ETA.

With the ‘short stay’ ETA you can travel to Sri Lanka for a vacation or business purpose which is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival.

The ‘transit’ ETA is valid for two days from the date of arrival. This visa is mandatory even if you are passing through the country on a cruise ship. But there are no charges for the ‘transit’ ETA.

Processing time:

For the processing time of your Sri Lanka ETA, you have three options:

  • Standard processing – Your ETA application will be processed within 1 Business Day, and the price is USD 40.00 (service fees included).
  • Rush processing – You will receive your ETA within 4 hours, and the cost is USD 70.00 (service fees included).
  • Super rush processing – This is the fastest option. You will get your ETA in 30 minutes, and the charges are USD 85.00 (service fees included).

How Y-Axis can help you?

  • Advise you on the required documentation
  • Advise you on the funds that need to be shown
  • Fill out the application forms
  • Review your documents for the visa application

Sign up for a free consultation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do i have to get an eta for sri lanka, what are the purposes for which i can get an eta for sri lanka, what are the types of sri lanka eta available, can i extend my sri lanka tourist visa, what can i do in sri lanka on my eta for tourist purpose, what can i do in sri lanka on my eta for business purpose.

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Travel requirements for India nationals

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There are no COVID-19 restrictions in place for travel to Sri Lanka. There is no requirement to present certificates of vaccination/testing for COVID-19. Any traveller who tests positive for COVID-19 while in Sri Lanka should isolate for 7 days in a private hospital, hotel or at their place of residence.

Things to have before boarding a plane:

Valid passport, travel authorization, travel insurance, hotel booking, before your travel.

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it’s important to know the travel requirements before you go. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your journey:

COVID-19 Requirements

  • Visa Requirements
  • Health Insurance

Culture and Etiquette

In December 2022, the Government of Sri Lanka announced that travellers are no longer required to produce COVID-19 vaccination certificates on arrival in Sri Lanka. Pre-departure COVID-19 tests are also no longer required before arrival.

On 17 June, the Government of Sri Lanka announced that COVID-19 travel insurance is no longer mandatory for all visitors. However, it is important to ensure you take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel abroad.

Visa requirements

Passport validity.

If you are visiting Sri Lanka, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

All visitors are advised to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Further information on eligibility is available on the Department of Immigration and Emigration website .

Visitors can apply for an ETA on the ETA website .

On arrival visa facilities are available, however applying for an ETA before travel is advised for ease of travel and to prevent delays on arrival.

All visitors need to comply with the guidelines imposed for tourists by the Government of Sri Lanka.

Tourist visas are normally valid for 30 days. If you overstay your visa you could be fined or detained by the police.

Eligible nationalities

Everyone is eligible for ETA , except for the following passport holders:

Free visa on arrival:

Visa in advance required:

Entry restrictions:

Health insurance

It is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance before you leave. Travel insurance can provide you with a wide range of coverage options that can help protect you financially in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. This can include things like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful and popular tourist destination, but like any other country, it is not immune to accidents and emergencies. Medical treatment abroad can be expensive no matter how rich your destination is, and having travel insurance can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of unexpected illness or injury.

Additionally, travel insurance can provide you with protection against trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances such as severe weather or personal emergencies. By purchasing travel insurance, you can ensure that you are financially protected and can fully enjoy your trip to Sri Lanka without worry.

The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) . The rupee is divided into 100 cents.

You will get approximately 325 LKR for 1 USD, or 389 for 1 GBP . The exchange rate will vary da by day.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and money changers in Sri Lanka. Many hotels and tourist destinations also offer currency exchange services, but these may not offer the best exchange rates. It is important to note that it is illegal to change money with unlicensed money changers, and doing so can result in steep fines or even imprisonment.

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of emergencies.

ATMs are also widely available in Sri Lanka, especially in urban areas, and they accept most major debit and credit cards. However, it is always advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans before departing to ensure that your cards will work abroad and to avoid any unexpected issues.

In Sri Lanka, etiquette plays a significant role in their daily lives. Sri Lankans are known for their warm hospitality and politeness, so it’s essential to follow their customs and traditions to show respect to their culture. One of the essential etiquettes is the dress code. Sri Lankans have conservative values, and it’s advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending formal events. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not recommended in these places.

Another etiquette in Sri Lanka is the greeting. It’s customary to greet people with a smile and a slight bow of the head. Handshakes are acceptable, but it’s better to wait for the other person to initiate it. When addressing people, it’s polite to use their title and surname, especially in formal settings. It’s also customary to use honorifics such as “sir” or “madam” when speaking to older people or those in positions of authority.

In Sri Lanka, it’s important to show respect to elders and those in authority. It’s customary to stand up when an elder or a person in authority enters the room as a sign of respect. When eating, it’s important to use the right hand to handle food as the left hand is considered unclean. Additionally, it’s considered impolite to point your feet towards someone as it’s seen as a sign of disrespect. These etiquettes are essential in Sri Lanka, and it’s important to observe them to show respect to the local culture.

ETA Summary:

Maximum visit: 30 days Multiple entries: 2 entires Processing: 72 - 96 hours Requires: Passport, email, card

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Sri Lanka. The Amazing.

sri lanka tourist visa from india

Our team consists of experienced travel consultants, tour guides, and customer support specialists who have extensive knowledge about Sri Lanka’s culture, history, and tourism industry. We believe in providing our clients with a unique travel experience that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences. We offer a range of travel services, including customized tour packages, hotel bookings, transportation arrangements, and local experiences.

We understand that traveling can be overwhelming, especially when visiting a foreign country. That is why we provide 24/7 customer support to our clients, ensuring that they have a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Our team is always available to answer any questions or concerns our clients may have during their stay in Sri Lanka.

At visitlk.com, we are passionate about showcasing the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka. Whether you are a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, we are here to make your journey to Sri Lanka unforgettable. Join us on a journey of discovery and exploration in this magical island paradise.

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Sri Lanka offers visa-free travel for Indians

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SRI LANKA / Created : Oct 25, 2023, 16:00 IST

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Sri Lanka is now visa-free for Indian passport holders. This initiative means seamless travel to Sri Lanka. Before this, Indians travelling to Sri Lanka were required to travel with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) documen … Read more

Sri Lanka is now visa-free for Indian passport holders. This initiative means seamless travel to Sri Lanka. Before this, Indians travelling to Sri Lanka were required to travel with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) document. Travellers were required to present this document at the time of arrival. This Electronic Travel Authorisation document was valid for 30 days and would cost the travellers INR 2080. Read less

Sri Lanka offers visa-free travel for Indians

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This country imposes INR 2 lakh fine for collecting sands and pebbles from beaches

Free visas means we don’t have to the pay the fees or we don’t even have to apply for the visa. It’s a great move hope other countries reciprocate the same with srilankan nationals. — R.R.Sivaraaam |ரா.சிவராம் (@RRsivaraam) October 24, 2023

Sri Lanka offers visa-free travel for Indians

Countries that readily grant visas to Indian passports holders

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Sri Lanka offers visa-free travel for Indians

Sri Lanka is now visa-free for Indian passport holders. This initiative means seamless travel to Sri Lanka. Before this, Indians travelling to Sri Lanka were required to travel with an Electronic Trav...

sri lanka tourist visa from india

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Travel Advisory September 5, 2023

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the  country information page . 

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

  • Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
  • Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
  • U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp. 

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.  

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the  Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by  e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the  Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations  in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the  Embassy of Sri Lanka website  for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
  • Places of worship
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies.  Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

  • Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
  • Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
  • Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

  • Romance/Online dating 
  • Contracts with promises of large commissions 
  • Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

  • Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
  • Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
  • Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
  • If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • Help you find appropriate medical care ;
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
  • Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion;
  • Provide a list of local attorneys ;
  • Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
  • Help arrange flights home; and
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel. 

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited  dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port. 

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
  • Human Rights Report  – see country reports

International Volunteers:

  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance.  If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners. 

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

  • Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
  • General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)  

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For Additional Travel Information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Indian visa for Sri Lankans: Visa types & Application Process

sri lanka tourist visa from india

As a Sri Lankan citizen, you may want to visit India for many reasons: business, medical, student, and the list goes long. The good thing is that the process to get an Indian Visa is easy for Sri Lankan citizens! The following guide covers every aspect of how Sri Lankans get an Indian visa , including the correct method, eligibility criteria, and in-depth detail of the list of Indian visas available to Sri Lankans. We’ll also look at the step-by-step process of applying for an Indian visa as a Sri Lankan citizen and how long it takes to proceed!

Indian visa for Sri Lankans: Visa types & Application Process

How to Apply for an Indian Visa?

The Indian Visa Online offers two methods for applicants to apply for an Indian Visa:

●  Regular/Paper Visa

Let’s understand the difference between both.

Regular/Paper Visa

The applicant is required to fill out a form online, print out the application, and submit it along with other necessary documents at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center or Indian Mission. The visa is then processed, and the applicant can receive it by visiting the Indian Mission/Visa Application Center or, it can also be sent via post.

e-Visa is easier to process since it allows the applicants to do everything online. It includes filling out the application, submitting the fee, receiving and printing their Electronic Travel Authorization (received via email), and presenting it at Immigration Check Post to get the e-Visa stamped on the passport.

Are Sri Lankan Citizens Eligible to Avail e-Visa for India?

Sadly, Sri Lankan citizens are currently not eligible to avail eVisa for India. It is because the Sri Lankan nationality is still on hold to be let into India. And since eVisa isn’t available for Sri Lankans, it means the only way to get an Indian visa for Sri Lanka is by regular/paper visa method.

Also, you can go through the list of countries/nationalities eligible to avail of Indian e-Visa at the official website of Indian Visa Online at the top in the left sidebar.

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Visa for Sri Lankans

The following conditions are required for a Sri Lankan citizen to apply for an Indian visa:

●  The applicant should have a Sri Lankan nationality. 

●  Applicant’s passport shouldn’t be near the expiry date; a minimum of 6 months passport validity from the date of arrival in India is a must.

●  Two pages (at least) in the applicant’s passport should be blank for the stamp.

●  The applicant should acquire both the visa and a valid return ticket.

●  The applicant has enough money to bear expenses while they stay in India.

●  The applicant has valid documents to attach with the visa application as per the visa category they are applying to.

List of Indian Visas available for Sri Lankans

When applying for an Indian visa, a Sri Lankan resident can select any of the following Indian visa categories:

●  Business Visa : to allow the applicant to engage in business activities in India.

●  Conference Visa : to allow the applicant to participate in international workshops, seminars, and international conventions in India.

●  Diplomatic Visa : eligible only to government officials (foreign service officers, etc.); to allow the professionals to conduct their assigned duty in India.

●  Employment Visa : to allow the applicant to come to India for a particular job; eligible only to those foreigners who are highly capable and/or highly skilled/educated/proficient; ineligible to foreigners applying for an employment visa for jobs with qualified Indians available and/or routine/ordinary secretarial/clerical jobs.

●  Entry Visa : eligible only for Indian origin applicants either with an Indian nationality or those with family members (parents/grandparents) of Indian origin/nationality. The Entry Visa contrasts with the Tourist Visa, given to non-Indian origin applicants.

●  Film Visa : to allow the applicant to shoot/commercial a film/reality TV show and/or commercial TV serials in India, respectively.

●  Journalist Visa : to allow the applicant to conduct journalism-related activities in India; eligible only to the official representatives of foreign media (professional journalists/photographers or members of press/radio/film/print industry such as reporters/editors/film crews, etc.); the typical Indian stay given is up to three months.

●  Medical Visa : to allow the applicant to travel to India for medical purposes (seeking medical treatments); the visa is permitted to an applicant a total of three times.

●  Missionary Visa : to allow the applicant to travel to India for religious purposes either to participate in a religious convention/event or to join a foreign organization in India organizing/conducting/performing religious/missionary work approved by the Indian government.

●  Mountaineering Visa : to allow the applicant to engage in mountaineering/climbing mountain peaks in India; requires permission from concerned authorities in India (Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF), C/o Ministry of Defence, Govt. of India, New Delhi).

●  Student Visa : to allow the applicant to visit India for academic purposes in recognized Indian institutions; also eligible for students in exchange programs from recognized Indian educational institutions sponsored by AIESEC.

●  Tourist Visa : opposite to Entry Visa; permitted to non-Indian origin applicants for casual visits (enjoyment, sightseeing, visiting relatives/friends, recreation, etc.). Applicants are not supposed to have an Indian residence/occupation.

●  Transit Visa : to allow the applicant to pass through India to reach the desired destination; the visa is permitted only for a single/double journey. Also, the transit visa is not valid for change of purpose. The applicant is supposed to enter India within 15 days of the issue date.

●  UN Diplomat/Official Visa : eligible only to diplomats/officials/UN passport holders/UN workers/members of Indian-located international organizations to allow them to travel to India to do their assigned duty/missions/posts in India; applicant’s spouse/children are also given diplomatic/official visas.

How to Apply for Indian Visa for Sri Lankans?

As stated earlier, an Indian‌ ‌visa‌ ‌for‌ ‌Sri Lankan‌ citizens is only available through the regular/paper visa method. The eVisa is not granted to Sri Lanka for now. You can apply for an Indian visa as a Sri Lankan resident in the following steps:

1. Fill out the online form.

2. Print out the application form.

3. Submit documents.

4. Receive your visa.

Before we move on, it is essential to learn that even in the regular/paper visa application method, you get further two options to carry out the process:

●  Fill out the online form, submit the fee and schedule the appointment online. Then, print out the form and submit it and other necessary documents at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center or Indian Mission.

●  Fill out the online form. Next, print it and visit the concerned Indian Visa Application Center or Indian Mission to submit the visa fee, application form, and other required documents.

Now, let’s look in detail at each step and see how Sri Lankan residents can apply for an Indian visa.

Step 1: Fill Out the Online Form

1. Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in

2. Click on “For Regular/Paper Visa by Indian Mission/Post, Apply Here”

3. Select “Regular/Paper Visa Application.”

4. The “Online Visa Application” will open.

5. Fill out the details like

●  the country you’re applying for a visa from (Sri Lanka)

●  Concerned Indian Mission/Office; for Sri Lanka, there are four options available:

○  Colombo

○  Hambantota

○  Jaffna

○  Kandy

Select as per your convenience

●  visa type

●  visa purpose (as per the type), etc.

6. After filling in all the details, click “Continue.”

7. You’ll need to fill in a series of further pages. Once you are done, click “Submit.”

You’ll be given an application ID; save it.

Next, you can select whether you want to pay the visa fee and schedule your visit to the concerned Indian mission/post online or not.

8. If the former, select “Yes,” and you’ll be directed to an appointment scheduling page where you can choose a convenient date and time. Next, you can pay the required visa fee.

9. However, if you do not wish to pay and schedule online, click “No,” and the process will be finished.

Step 2: Print Out the Application Form.

It’s easy; the web page will give you the option to print the application form; you can save it on your PC/laptop and later print it. Make sure the graphics are legible and not blurred.

Step 3: Submit Documents

Visit the concerned Indian Visa Application Center or Indian Mission (Colombo, Hambantota, Jaffna, Kandy) to submit the application and required documents.

Step 4: Receive Your Visa

After your visa process is done, you can collect it from the Indian Visa Application Center or Indian Mission or get it sent to you by post.

How Long Does it take for the Visa to Proceed?

At least three days are required for the visa to process; you can also check your visa status through the official website of Indian Visa Online . You’ll need two things to log in:

●  Your application ID generated at the completion of filling the online visa application form

●  Your password

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Sri Lanka Offers Free Tourist Visa for Indians, Akasa Air CEO on IPO Plans: India Report

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

October 24th, 2023 at 11:00 PM EDT

Sri Lanka is hoping an easier visa process will help it reach its goal of welcoming 1.5 million visitors by the end of this year.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

Under a pilot program, Sri Lanka will be issuing free tourist visas through next March to visitors from seven countries: India, China, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This initiative is part of Sri Lanka’s broader strategy to revitalize its tourism sector and achieve a target of 5 million arrivals by 2026.

Sri Lanka’s Tourism Crisis: Sri Lanka’s tourism industry endured a severe blow due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which was followed by an economic crisis last year . However, there’s a positive shift in 2023, with the country welcoming 1 million arrivals by September, the first time since 2019. The island nation is expected to conclude the year with 1.5 million arrivals.

Source Markets: India stands as the largest source of tourists, contributing 200,310 arrivals, followed by Russia with 132,300, according to the latest data from the Sri Lanka Development Authority.

Tourism Revenue: Sri Lanka’s tourism revenue for the first eight months of 2023 reached $1.3 billion, a significant increase from $833 million during the same period the previous year, as reported by the central bank.

Akasa Air’s IPO Plans

Set to start international services soon, Akasa Air , plans to go public by the end of the decade, CEO Vinay Dube told news agency PTI on Sunday.

Current Operations: Launched last year in August, Akasa Air, currently operates more than 750 weekly flights across 16 Indian destinations.

International Flights: The airline will soon start international operations as it has received flying rights for Riyadh and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, Doha and Kuwait.

Fleet Expansion: With a current fleet of 20 aircraft, Akasa has also placed a firm order for 76 Boeing 737 MAX aeroplanes, set to join its fleet by mid-2027.

Akasa expects to have 25 aircraft by the end of this fiscal and expects to add 15 more aircraft by the end of the next financial year. By mid-2027, the airline expects to have 76 planes.

Dube said the airline is also looking to place an order for 100-plus aircraft before the end of 2023.

He said the airline is already generating free cash from operations and is well-funded for the new aircraft order.

“’I don’t think 2027 will be possible for a listing, but the listing is something that we definitely want to do. We may have to gather a little more history before we can list. Certainly, listing or an IPO is something that we would desire.”

Dube called a listing before the end of this decade a “much more realistic goal.”

Listed Indian Carriers: At present, there are two operational scheduled carriers publicly traded on the stock exchanges – Indigo and SpiceJet. Jet Airways, which ceased operations in April 2019 due to financial difficulties, is also listed. Go First, which closed down operations earlier this year, had also been keen to list in the Indian bourses.

India Is Now US’ No 2 Overseas Visitor Source Market

India has now climbed up to be the second-largest overseas source market for the U.S. (excluding Mexico and Canada) for the period from January-July 2023 , according to the latest data from the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office .

Numbers: Indians arrivals to the U.S. touched 972,629 tourists till July 2023, below top source market UK’s 2,101,148 arrivals.

Last Year: In 2022, India ranked sixth with 1.3 million arrivals to the U.S. and, in terms of money spent, India ranked fourth with a spend of $13.3 billion.

Visa Delays: However, visa delays  continue to dog travel from India to the U.S. In spite of a significant reduction in visa wait times in March, from 600 days to less than a year, the current visa wait time is now over 500 days.

“Visa delays are the  single biggest impediment  to exponential growth in travel between the U.S. and India,” Adam Burke , CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board , told Skift during his recent visit to India.

Affirma Capital Earns Multifold Return in Partial Sale of TBO Stake

Global investor firm General Atlantic has acquired a minority stake from Affirma Capital in India-headquartered travel distribution paltform Travel Boutique Online (TBO) Tek .

Affirma Capital, a private equity fund focusing on India, South Korea, and South-east Asia, reportedly achieved a nine-fold return on invested capital with a partial exit from TBO Tek, a senior executive told Mint.

“Since our investment in 2018, we have witnessed TBO’s transformational journey to becoming one of the leading travel technology platforms globally, creating meaningful value for its shareholders along the way, as has been crystallised in Affirma Capital’s multi-fold return on investment as part of this transaction,” said Udai Dhawan , founding partner and India Head at Affirma Capital.

In 2018, Affirma Capital had invested around $42 million to acquire 46% stake in TBO Tek. Having divested around 7% stake in the company, Dhawan said, Affirma continues to retain a significant minority stake in the business.

“We see immense potential in the path ahead for TBO, including global expansion opportunities, and are excited to partner with the company to help enable the next generation of travel globally,” said Shantanu Rastogi , managing director and head of India at General Atlantic.

Agoda’s Insights for Diwali Travel

Goa, Ooty, Puducherry, Mumbai and Bengaluru are the top five domestic destinations for Indians during the fesive season, according to digital travel platform Agoda . Agoda also reported a 13% increase in searches for travel around Diwali compared to 2022.

What’s  Diwali? Diwali, the festival of lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holiday in India. This year Diwali is being celebrated from November 10-15.

“It’s great to see the increase in domestic travel for this Diwali season. The long weekend means more people are taking advantage to travel with family and friends,” said Krishna Rathi, country director India, Sri Lanka, and Maldives at Agoda.

International Destinations and Inbound: The five most popular international destinations during this period are Bangkok, Dubai, Singapore, Pattaya, and Kuala Lumpur. During this Diwali season, Agoda has also observed an increase of tourists coming to India, with the highest number of visitors arriving from U.S., UK, Singapore, Australia, and the Netherlands.

Sarovar Opens Golden Tulip in Bhopal

Sarovar Hotels and Resorts announced the opening of a Golden Tulip in Bhopal . The 11th Golden Tulip Hotel in the Indian subcontinent, this opening signifies Sarovar Group’s interest in expanding the Golden Tulip footprint in India. 

The 62-room Golden Tulip intends to cater to the young modern traveller, Sarovar said in a release.

Sarovar Portfolio: Part of Paris headquartered hospitality firm Group Du Louvre , Sarovar Hotels manages over 100 operational hotels in over 70 destinations in India and overseas, under Sarovar Premiere, Sarovar Portico, Hometel, and Golden Tulip brands. The brands cover the 3, 4, and 5-star spectrum.

Sarovar 2023 Plans: At the beginning of the year, it had been reported that Sarovar is looking to open 10 hotels in 2023 in key pilgrimage and leisure destinations in India, including markets where it hasn’t forayed before.

South African Tourism Eyes India

South African Tourism has witnessed over 80% growth in Indian arrivals from January-July 2023 in comparison to the same period last year.

Keen to sustain the travel momentum that witnessed a significant uptick in tourist arrivals throughout the first half of the year, South African Tourism is hosting its training session “ Learn South Africa 2023 ” in six Indian cities.

Which Cities? Aimed at equipping travel agents with the right tools to sell the destination effectively, the training session is taking place in Delhi, Pune, Kolkata, Kochi, Indore and Jaipur.

India’s Ranking: India is one of the top-3 focus markets for the tourism board globally and is currently the sixth largest international source market, according to South African Tourism.

The tourism board believes that the country has a significant role to play in South Africa’s tourism landscape.

“This year we have witnessed a significant growth in tourism from India… It will be our endeavour to innovate and explore newer avenues of association by expanding such programs to tier-2 and tier-3 cities of the Indian market,” said Neliswa Nkani, hub head — Middle East, India and South-East Asia at South African Tourism.

Yatra’s Bid to Make Holidays Affordable

Yatra has tied up with banks and airline partner Indigo to launch an EMI fest for travel during the festive season. The fest allows customers to avail discounts on international and domestic airfares as well as on hotels, and holiday packages.

Yatra said that it is also offering EMI options to allow customers to go on a holiday without having to break the bank.

The EMI fest arrives at the perfect time, as Indian travelers are gearing up for the festive season and year-end adventures, said Sabina Chopra , chief operating officer corporate travel and head — industry relations at Yatra.

“This is Yatra’s way of saying bon voyage and safe travels,” Chopra said.

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Tags: agoda , asia monthly , diwali , indigo , outbound tourism , sarovar hotels , skift india report , south african tourism , sri lanka , visa , yatra

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‘Expect a boom in Domestic travel share’

Vishal Suri

India’s travel & tourism industry will witness high growth over the next two years as there is a strong desire among local travellers to explore new destinations, Vishal Suri, managing director of SOTC Travel Ltd, tells Arshad Khan of TNIE. Unlike the general perception that foreign destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam and Dubai are impacting the popularity of domestic centres such as Goa or Kashmir, Suri says there is enough room for growth for everyone.

Excerpts: 

How has been the recovery for you after the lull during the pandemic?

Before the pre-pandemic struck, the market was growing at a CAGR of 10-12%. Then Covid happened. However, the recovery has been phenomenal. Last year (2023), business travel was more than 110% compared with 2019 and MICE business was 120% of 2019. Leisure, holidays, and domestic businesses grew 30-40% in 2023 over pre-pandemic levels.

While domestic and short-haul destinations led the recovery, the long-haul part of our business, which is North America and parts of Europe, due to stringent visa policy and diplomatic tension with Canada, faced challenges last year and was only 66% of the pre-Covid year.

Do you expect the growth to continue in the summer season? What are the factors prompting Indians to travel more?

For the next two years, there will be a very strong desire to travel. However, things like Covid and geopolitical tensions can impact the industry. Many in short-haul destinations have realised the potential of Indian travellers as Chinese are not travelling much. They know Indians are affluent and can spend. Thailand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and others have gone visa-free for Indians. This reduces cost and also removes a big barrier.

The other reason is the improvement in connectivity within the country and outside. The number of airports has doubled in the past 10 years with two big airlines — IndiGo and Air India — adding almost one plane every week. This summer is expected to be one of the best for us. Our booking trends are very encouraging and higher than that of pre-pandemic years.

As a lot of short-haul destinations such as Thailand, Dubai and Vietnam have become popular, has it impacted your domestic travel business? Also, is it making destinations such as Goa or Kashmir less attractive? 

In our portfolio, domestic business this year will be close to 15-18%. In my mind, over the next two-three years, it will be 20-25% of our portfolio. It used to be sub 5% during pre-pandemic times. If you look at our domestic business, we will be five times larger than what it was in the next two years.

Anecdotally, say that if I have to go to Kashmir, I’ll spend `75,000- 80,000. I can go to Thailand with that money. However, the reality is Kashmir is full. While improved connectivity and easy visa norms have added a lot of options to choose from, it is not that one is cannibalising the other. For example, there are a lot more hotel inventories coming out in Goa and the place now has a secondary airport. Prices obviously will correct at some point in time based on the demand-supply situation.

The number of foreign tourists coming to India is much lower than Indians travelling abroad. What can be done to put India back on the global tourism map?

India has less than 1% of the international tourist arrivals. While distress in the global economy is one factor, I think India needs to go back and ease the visa regime for inbound travellers. At present, a Visa for India is an expensive and lengthy affair and this discourages many from planning a trip here. We also need policies around creating some kind of tourism activities, such as skydiving, and snorkelling, and all of those have to be high quality. There also has to be nightlife and a supportive liquor policy.

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IMAGES

  1. Indian Visa for Sri Lanka 2022: How to Apply for a Visa to India from

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  2. Sri Lanka Visa For Indians: Everything A Traveler Must Know

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  1. শ্রীলংকায় না আসলে এই ব্যপারগুলো জানতেই পারতাম না

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  4. Sri Lanka Tourism Weekly Update

  5. Sri Lanka Visa Update| Sri Lanka free visa for Indian| Free of cost visa for Sri Lanka

  6. Can we travel to Srilanka from India now?

COMMENTS

  1. Online Visa Application

    Above nominated nationals should apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arriving in Sri Lanka subject to granting/issuing free of charge up to 31.03.2024. 04. Under this scheme tourists can enjoy a 30 days free visa period and a double entry facility is permitted from the date of first arrival to Sri Lanka within 30 days. 05.

  2. Sri Lanka Visa

    VISA: Required Visa Issuance: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) can be obtained before departure at www.eta.gov.lk; Free Visa regime is implemented for nationals of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan with effect from 28.11.203, until 31.03.2024. After 31.03.2024, the applicant is eligible to obtain a visa extension on payment basis by approaching the Department ...

  3. Online Visa Application

    This method is recommended for those who wish to obtain ETA from a Sri Lanka Overseas Mission and have a visa endorsed on their passports. Sri Lanka Overseas Missions are authorized to issue ETA for up to 30 days and Short Visit visas (Tourist Visa with single or double entry and Business Purposes ETA with single, double or multiple entries ...

  4. Visa requirements for visiting Sri Lanka

    You can renew a 30-day tourist visa up to three times once in Sri Lanka. The initial extension is usually granted for 60 days, and the maximum length of a tourist visa is 270 days. Visitors wishing to apply for an extension should make sure they do so before their current visa expires and must ensure their passport is valid for at least two ...

  5. Sri Lanka is offering free tourist visas to Indian visitors

    Travelling to the beautiful island country of Sri Lanka just got easier. On 24 October, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry, took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce a waiver on the visa fee for tourists from India and six other countries. The new move allows Indians to avail of free tourist visas for visits to Sri Lanka, at least until 31 March, 2024.

  6. Sri Lanka visa for Indian citizens: Requirements and Fees in March 2024

    Simply follow these simple steps: Step 1: Complete the Sri Lanka Visa online form with your basic personal, passport, and travel information. Step 2: Pay the Sri Lanka online visa fee securely with your valid credit or debit card information. Step 3: Receive an approved Sri Lanka ETA visa / e-visa of yours via email.

  7. Sri Lanka Visa For Indians: Everything A Traveler Must Know

    In January 2012 Sri Lanka government introduced a new ETA Visa for a short visit to Sri Lanka. Travelers from all over the world can apply e-visa for Sri Lanka online without having to visit an embassy or consulate.The e-visa costs INR 4,500. It takes about 24 hours to process and allows you to stay for up to 30 days.

  8. Sri Lanka Visa

    Complete the Sri Lanka application form and submit it to the embassy or consulate along with the visa fee, your passport, and the required documents. The embassy/consulate will forward your application to the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration & Emigration (DI&E). You will receive a visa application reference number.

  9. Sri Lanka tourist visa for Indian citizens in 2024

    Thing to consider when applying for Sri Lanka tourist visa. Visa on arrival is available for Indian citizens till 31 March 2024 for no fees. After 31 March 2024, the applicant can obtain a visa extension by paying the requisite fees. Electronic Travel Authorization can also be obtained on arrival. 30 days extendable to 6 months.

  10. Sri Lanka approves free tourist visas for visitors from India, six

    The Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved the policy to issue free tourist visas to travellers from India and six other countries, Foreign Minister Ali Sabry said, amidst efforts to rebuild the debt ...

  11. Sri Lanka Visa for Indians

    The Sri Lanka eVisa fees for Indians depends on which category of eVisa or ETA you opt for. The Sri Lanka eVisa fee for a tourist visa if you get it done through Yatra is INR 2200. This Sri Lanka eVisa price is inclusive of the agent commission. The Sri Lanka eVisa cost in case you wish to get a business visa is INR 2850 which includes the visa ...

  12. Traveling to Sri Lanka from India? Here's all you need to know!

    Indians require a visa to enter Sri Lanka, and you can either get one online beforehand or get a visa on arrival. For visa on arrival, make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months before you fly. Alternatively, getting your visa/ ETA (Electronic Travel Allowance) before you travel is easy to do and allows for a stress-free trip.

  13. Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Requirements, Cost for Indian Citizens

    For the processing time of your Sri Lanka ETA, you have three options: Standard processing - Your ETA application will be processed within 1 Business Day, and the price is USD 40.00 (service fees included). Rush processing - You will receive your ETA within 4 hours, and the cost is USD 70.00 (service fees included).

  14. for Indians

    Travel requirements. for India nationals. There are no COVID-19 restrictions in place for travel to Sri Lanka. There is no requirement to present certificates of vaccination/testing for COVID-19. Any traveller who tests positive for COVID-19 while in Sri Lanka should isolate for 7 days in a private hospital, hotel or at their place of residence.

  15. Sri Lanka offers visa-free travel for Indians

    Recently, Sri Lanka's Ministry of Tourism announced that travellers from seven countries - India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand can now have a visa-free entry to Sri ...

  16. Sri Lanka International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

  17. India tourist visa for Sri Lankan citizens in 2024

    India e-Tourist Visa is available online for Sri Lankan citizens. With this tourist visa stay is usually short with a period of 30 days and visa expires in 365 days. Applicant is not required to be present when applying for India online e-visa. A total of 3 documents are required for applying India online e-visa.

  18. Indian Visa for Sri Lankans: How to Apply for a Visa to India from Sri

    Indian visa from Sri Lanka application process. Please note that visa applications for the categories like Tourist, Business, Student, Employment, Medical & Medical Attendant, Journalist, Transit and Entry visas should be submitted directly at the IVS Global India Visa Application Centre (IVAC) Follow the steps given below to apply for the Indian visa in Sri Lanka:

  19. Indian visa for Sri Lankans: Visa types & Application Process

    As a Sri Lankan citizen, you may want to visit India for many reasons: business, medical, student, and the list goes long. The good thing is that the process to get an Indian Visa is easy for Sri Lankan citizens! The following guide covers every aspect of how Sri Lankans get an Indian visa, including the correct method, eligibility criteria, and in-depth detail of the list of Indian visas ...

  20. Sri Lanka Offers Free Tourist Visa for Indians: India Report

    Under a pilot program, Sri Lanka will be issuing free tourist visas through next March to visitors from seven countries: India, China, Russia, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This ...

  21. Traveling to India from Sri Lanka in 2024: Passport, Visa Requirements

    2 litres of alcoholic beverage. Used personal effects and travel souvenirs if they are for personal use, and will leave India when the traveller departs. Any amount of foreign currency may be brought into India, however amounts over US$5000 in cash and US$10,000 in a combination of cash and travellers cheques must be declared.

  22. 'Expect a boom in Domestic travel share'

    Thailand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and others have gone visa-free for Indians. This reduces cost and also removes a big barrier. India's travel & tourism industry will witness high growth over the ...

  23. ‎مسيان للسفر والسياحة‎

    0 likes, 0 comments - misyaan1 on March 3, 2022: "Tourist visa to OMAN ONLY FOR .. Philippines India Sri Lanka "

  24. Match Preview

    Since the start of 2021, India have a head-to-head record of 4-3 against Sri Lanka in T20Is. Chahal needs four wickets to become the highest wicket-taker for India in the format. Currently ...