28/05/2026
Sri Lanka ETA Visa update
Great news for UK travellers planning a tropical escape — British passport holders can now benefit from Sri Lanka’s new free ETA visa initiative, making travel to the island nation easier and more affordable than ever.
Effective from 25 May '26 The Sri Lankan government has expanded its visa-free tourism programme, allowing eligible travellers from selected countries, including the United Kingdom, to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) without paying the standard visa fee.
What Is the Sri Lanka ETA?
The Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online travel permit required for most foreign visitors entering the country for tourism or short business trips. Instead of visiting an embassy, travellers can complete the process online before departure.
Under the new scheme, British citizens can still apply for the ETA as normal — but the government is waiving the visa fee for eligible travellers.
While the ETA fee may now be free, British passport holders must still apply for the authorization before travelling. The ETA remains a mandatory entry requirement for tourism visits.
Travellers should also ensure:
Their passport is valid for at least 6 months from arrival
They apply through the official Sri Lanka ETA website
They keep a copy of their ETA approval before departure
Travellers can apply online through the official Sri Lanka ETA portal: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
For our latest offers see: https://thgholidays.co.uk/destinations/sri-lanka/offers
