Starting from 2024, travelers to Sri Lanka will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance, and the entry process has been adjusted. This guide will detail the visa application steps, required materials, entry precautions, and customs regulations, helping you to smoothly start your journey to Sri Lanka!
Types of Sri Lankan Visas
Sri Lanka offers the following visa options for Chinese citizens:
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) (most common)
Tourist Visa (30 days): Single or double entry, extendable.
Business Visa (30 days): An invitation letter is required.
Transit Visa (48 hours): Suitable for transit passengers.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) (still available, but not recommended)
It can be processed at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, but long queues are possible, so it is advisable to apply for an ETA in advance.
Steps for Applying for a Sri Lankan ETA
1. Pre-application Preparation
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages.
Digital Materials:
Scanned copy of the passport's first page (clear color PDF or JPG).
Passport-sized photo with a white background (35mm×45mm, taken within the last 6 months).
Travel itinerary (such as hotel reservations and return flight tickets, not mandatory but recommended).
2. Online Application Process (official website: https://eta.gov.lk)
Visit the official website → Select "Apply for Individual" → "Short Visit" (tourist visa).
Fill in personal information (must match passport details):
Name, nationality, passport number, date of birth, entry date, etc.
Accommodation address in Sri Lanka (can be a hotel or guesthouse).
Upload documents (passport scan + photo).
Pay the visa fee ($50, supports Visa/MasterCard/Alipay).
Submit the application, usually processed within 24 hours, and sent to your email.
3. Visa Inquiry and Printing
If you do not receive an email, you can check the status on the official website under "Check ETA Status".
It is recommended to print the ETA (or save a digital copy), as it may need to be presented upon entry.
Entry Process in Sri Lanka (Latest 2024)
1. Materials Required for Entry
Valid passport + ETA visa (digital or printed).
Return flight ticket (customs may check).
Hotel reservation (not mandatory, but recommended).
Health declaration (if applicable): Currently, there are no mandatory vaccine or PCR test requirements, but policies may change, so it is advisable to check before traveling.
2. Customs Process
After disembarking, follow the "Arrival" signs to the immigration hall.
Queue for immigration, present to the immigration officer:
Passport
ETA visa (digital or printed)
Return flight ticket (if requested)
Customs inspection (random luggage checks):
Prohibited items: drugs, fresh food, excessive cigarettes (limit 2 cartons), drones (must be declared in advance).
Duty-free allowance: personal items not exceeding $500 in value.
Collect your luggage, complete the entry process.
Visa Extension in Sri Lanka (for longer stays)
If you plan to stay for more than 30 days, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo.
Required materials: passport, ETA, extension application form, photo, fee (about $100-200, depending on the length of stay).
The maximum extension is up to 180 days (valid reasons such as tourism or business are needed).
Common Questions & Answers (Q&A)
❓Q1: Can I get a visa on arrival?
✅ Theoretically possible, but the electronic visa (ETA) is faster and avoids airport queues.
❓Q2: What if my ETA is denied?
✅ Check for any incorrect information, resubmit the application, or contact the Sri Lankan embassy in China.
❓Q3: Is Sri Lanka safe?
🔹 Generally safe, but be cautious with personal belongings and avoid traveling alone to remote areas at night.
Summary & Travel Tips
Apply for the ETA in advance (at least 3 days before departure).
Prepare all entry materials (passport + ETA + flight ticket + hotel reservation).
Avoid carrying prohibited items (such as drones, excessive cash).
Stay informed about policy changes (Sri Lankan entry regulations may be adjusted).
By following this guide, you can easily handle the visa and entry processes and enjoy the sun, beaches, and culture of Sri Lanka! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment for discussion~
