Sri Lanka Unveils New e-Visa System and Updates Tourist Visa Fees (Everything You Need to Know)
Sri Lanka e-Visa: Everything You Need to Know (Fees, Types, Application Guide)
Planning a trip to the beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka? Great news! Sri Lanka recently launched a brand new e-Visa system, making the visa application process smoother and more convenient than ever before. This user-friendly system replaces the older Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) method and offers travelers a streamlined approach with updated requirements, revised fees, and varied validity periods.
This blog post provides you with all the essential information about Sri Lanka's new e-Visa system, including visa types, costs, and the easy online application process.
New e-Visa System: A Streamlined Approach
Sri Lanka's new e-Visa system, implemented in collaboration with IVS Global Institute and GBS Technology Service, aims to enhance the visitor experience by simplifying the visa application process. Here's what you can expect:
Online Application: Apply for your visa electronically from anywhere in the world. No more visits to embassies or consulates!
Faster Processing: The online system promises quicker processing times for your e-Visa application compared to the older ETA method.
Transparent Requirements: The e-Visa portal clearly outlines the necessary documents and eligibility criteria, reducing any confusion for applicants.
Multiple Visa Options: Choose the e-Visa that best suits your travel needs, with options for single entry, multiple entries, and varying durations of stay to cater to different travel styles.
Types of e-Visas Offered
The new e-Visa system caters to various travel purposes with the following visa categories:
Standard Visitor Visa: This visa is ideal for leisure trips and allows a single entry with a maximum stay of 60 days within a 6-month validity period. The fee is $75, making it a budget-friendly option for short getaways.
Multiple Entry Visa: Opt for this visa if you plan multiple visits to Sri Lanka within a year, perhaps to explore different regions or attend cultural festivals throughout the year. It offers multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit and a validity period of 1 year for $200.
Long-Term Multiple Entry Visa: This visa is perfect for extended stays or frequent travelers, such as digital nomads or those looking for a winter escape to Sri Lanka's sunny shores. It allows multiple entries with a maximum stay of 180 days per visit and is valid for 2 years, providing long-term flexibility for $300.
Transit Visa: If you have a connecting flight through Sri Lanka and need to extend your layover to explore the city, you can apply for a Transit Visa which permits a stay of up to 4 days and costs $25, a convenient option for breaking up a long journey.
Visa Fee Exemptions: Citizens of some South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries, including India, Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, may be eligible for visa exemptions or visa on arrival options. Double-check the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration website for the latest information on SAARC country visa requirements.
Other Foreign Citizens: Visa requirements and fees for other foreign countries can vary. It's always recommended to consult the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration website or contact your nearest Sri Lankan embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and fees applicable to your nationality.
Applying for Your Sri Lankan e-Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for your Sri Lankan e-Visa is a breeze! Here's a quick guide to get you started:
Visit the Official e-Visa Portal: Locate the Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration's e-Visa portal (a link should be available on the official department website).
Choose Your Visa Type: Select the e-Visa category that aligns with your travel plans. Consider the duration of your trip, the number of entries you'll need, and any specific requirements for your travel purpose.
Fill Out the Online Application: Carefully enter the required information, including your passport details, travel itinerary, and contact information. Ensure all details are accurate and typos are avoided to prevent delays in processing.
Upload Supporting Documents: Make sure to upload any necessary documents as specified for your chosen visa type. These may include scanned copies of your passport bio page, travel insurance documents, and proof of accommodation bookings.
Pay the Visa Fee: Securely pay the e-Visa fee using the available online payment method. Common options include credit cards and debit cards.
Submit Your Application: Once you've reviewed all details thoroughly, submit your application electronically. Double-check all information before submission to avoid any errors.
Track Your Application: The online portal allows you to track the status of your e-Visa application. This provides peace of mind as you wait for approval. Here's how to track your application:
*Locate the "Track Application" section on the e-Visa portal.
*Enter your application reference number or passport number.
*You may also be required to enter a security code displayed on the screen.
Once submitted, the portal will display the current status of your application, which could be:
Received: Your application has been submitted and is awaiting review.
Under Review: The Immigration Department is processing your application.
Approved: Your e-Visa has been granted! Download and print a copy for your travel records.
Rejected: In case of rejection, the portal will usually provide details on the reason for refusal. You may need to re-apply with the necessary corrections or clarifications.
Important Tip: While the processing time for e-Visas is generally faster than the ETA system, it's still recommended to apply well in advance of your trip, especially during peak tourist seasons. Allow ample processing time to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
With its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lush landscapes, Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable travel experience. The new e-Visa system makes it easier than ever to explore this captivating island nation. So start planning your Sri Lankan adventure today!
Happy Travels!
Additional Resources:
Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration website: https://www.immigration.gov.lk/
I hope this complete blog post provides all the information you need to navigate Sri Lanka's new e-Visa system and plan your dream vacation!