---
title: Sri Lanka visa for citizens of the United States
description: "Citizens of the United States don't need a visa for Sri Lanka but must get an electronic travel authorization (eTA) online before travelling. Stay up to 30 days. Processing: 1–2 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/sri-lanka/united-states
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# Sri Lanka visa for citizens of the United States

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

*Not yet verified · last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

> Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

Official application site: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/center.jsp?locale=en_US

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** eTA · Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) · Tourist
- **How to apply:** Electronic travel authorization (online)
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Visa validity:** 180 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Processing time:** 1–2 days
- **Government fee:** No fee listed
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required

## How to apply

1. **Complete online application** — Fill personal, passport, and travel information on the official ETA portal.
2. **Submit application** — Review and submit the form; US citizens are exempt from payment.
3. **Receive ETA via email** — Approval is sent within 1-2 business days; print and carry upon arrival.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must have at least 6 months validity from date of arrival.
- **Return ticket or onward travel proof** (Travel): Submit flight itinerary as proof of departure.
- **Accommodation details** (Travel): Provide address of hotel or host in Sri Lanka.
- **Email address** (Supporting): For receiving ETA approval.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Invalid or incomplete passport details** — Double-check passport number and expiration date.
- **No onward travel proof** — Ensure return flight or onward ticket is uploaded.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of the United States need a visa for Sri Lanka?

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

### How long can citizens of the United States stay in Sri Lanka?

Up to 30 days.

### How long does Sri Lanka visa processing take?

Typically 1–2 days.

### What documents do citizens of the United States need for Sri Lanka?

Valid passport; Return ticket or onward travel proof; Accommodation details; Email address.

### How long must my passport be valid for Sri Lanka?

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/center.jsp?locale=en_US

## Sources

- [eta.gov.lk](https://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/center.jsp?locale=en_US)

## More

- [Sri Lanka visa for every passport](/visa/sri-lanka)
- [Every destination for United States passport holders](/visa/passport/united-states)