United Arab Emirates passport → Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka visa for citizens of the United Arab Emirates

eTAETA · Tourist (30 days)

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates don't need a visa for Sri Lanka but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling.

Official application site

Verified · Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	ETA · Tourist (30 days)
How to apply	Electronic travel authorization (online)
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Sufficient funds for the stay (e.g., bank statement, credit card)

How to apply

1
Access the official ETA portal
Go to https://eta.gov.lk and select 'Apply for an ETA'.
2
Choose application category
Select 'Tourist ETA' for tourism purposes (max stay 30 days).
3
Fill in personal and passport details
Enter full name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, etc.
4
Provide travel and accommodation information
Input flight details, arrival/departure dates, hotel address or invitation details.
5
Upload required documents
Upload passport scan, photo, return ticket, accommodation proof, and financial evidence.
6
Review and submit application
Double-check all entries and submit online; payment is processed at this step if applicable.
7
Receive ETA approval email
Approval typically arrives within 1-3 days; print a copy to present on arrival.
8
Travel to Sri Lanka with ETA printout
Carry the ETA confirmation along with passport and supporting documents for immigration.

Documents checklist

Identity

Passport bio page (clear scanned copy)
Must be valid for at least 6 months from arrival date.
Digital passport photo (white background, 35x45mm)
Upload in JPEG format, not older than 6 months.

Travel

Confirmed return flight ticket
Must show departure from Sri Lanka within max stay period.

Financial

Bank statement (last 3-6 months)
Show sufficient balance to cover expenses; credit card statement also accepted.

Supporting

Hotel reservation or letter of invitation
Must cover entire intended stay; invitation letter from host in Sri Lanka.
Travel insurance (recommended)
Optional
Not mandatory but may strengthen application.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of USD 1000 (or proof of sufficient funds)

Bank statement
Credit card statement
Cash traveler's checks

No exact minimum balance published; proof should show ability to cover trip expenses.

Good to know

Apply at least 2 weeks before travel to account for potential delays.
Eta is not a guarantee of entry; final decision made by immigration officer at arrival.
Ensure passport has at least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps.

Common refusal reasons

Incorrect or mismatched personal details (e.g., name on passport vs application).

Triple-check all entries against passport bio page before submitting.

Photo does not meet requirements (size, background, lighting).

Use a professional service or strictly follow the photo guide on the portal.

Insufficient proof of onward travel or accommodation.

Provide confirmed return ticket and a genuine hotel/host booking.

Criminal record or previous immigration violations.

Disclose any relevant history honestly; consult embassy if unsure.

FAQ

Do citizens of the United Arab Emirates need a visa for Sri Lanka?

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates don't need a visa for Sri Lanka but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling. Visa type: ETA · Tourist (30 days).

How long can citizens of the United Arab Emirates stay in Sri Lanka?

Up to 30 days.

What documents do citizens of the United Arab Emirates need for Sri Lanka?

Passport bio page (clear scanned copy); Digital passport photo (white background, 35x45mm); Confirmed return flight ticket; Hotel reservation or letter of invitation; Bank statement (last 3-6 months); Travel insurance (recommended).

How long must my passport be valid for Sri Lanka?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://eta.gov.lk

Sources

eta.gov.lk

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