Sri Lanka has waived tourist ETA charges for certain visitors – here's what to know before you go

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka just got a little easier on the wallet. Since May 25, 2026, travellers from 40 countries can apply for a Sri Lanka tourist visa via the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system free of charge, as the country ramps up efforts to attract more visitors.

Here’s what to know before you start mentally booking train seats through the hill country.

What has changed?

Sri Lanka has waived the tourist ETA fee for nationals of 40 countries. Eligible travellers can now obtain a 30-day tourist visa through the ETA system without paying the usual processing fee.

The visa allows double entry within the 30-day validity period, counted from the date of first arrival. So you can leave and re-enter Sri Lanka once, but your second visit must still fall within the original 30-day window.

Which countries are eligible?

The free ETA applies to travellers from countries including Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States, among others.

Travellers from the Maldives, Seychelles and Singapore, which have reciprocal agreements with Sri Lanka, must also apply for an ETA before arrival, but the fee will be waived too. Maldivian nationals will receive a 90-day tourist visa under the ETA system.

Do travellers still need to apply before arrival?

Yes. This is the important bit: the fee has been waived, but the ETA itself has not disappeared. Travellers still need to apply online and receive approval before entering Sri Lanka. 

What documents do travellers need?

Travellers should be ready with the usual basics: a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, accommodation details, contact information, and any other supporting information required for the ETA application. If staying beyond 30 days, visitors can apply for an extension and pay the relevant visa fees.

Why is Sri Lanka doing this now?

Tourism is a major focus for Sri Lanka in 2026. After a record 2.36 million arrivals in 2025, the country is aiming for roughly 2.7 to 3 million visitors this year. Waiving ETA fees makes entry feel smoother and cheaper for key source markets, including India and China, as well as Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and the US.

Have you heard? Ladakh is hosting the world’s highest art biennale – here’s what to know

Plus: There’s a marathon at Angkor Wat where runners pass nearly 40 ancient temples