You must have a visa to travel

Travel requirements to Sri Lanka for American citizens

If you're traveling from the United States to Sri Lanka, the first step is understanding the visa requirements. Securing the right visa makes your entry into Sri Lanka as smooth as possible. Let's explore all the necessary travel documents, visa types, and health requirements for American citizens visiting Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka visa requirements for American citizens

Electronic travel authorization for Business

Travelers need a travel authorization to visit Sri Lanka for Business.

Visa-exempt visitors entering Sri Lanka must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Travelers can apply online. Once approved, travelers receive their eTA confirmation electronically.

If travelers receive a new passport, they must apply for a new eTA.

Apply online for Business

Visa on arrival

Travelers need a visa to visit Sri Lanka for Business or Tourism. Travelers can get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka at the port of entry of Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

Electronic travel authorization for Tourism

Travelers need a travel authorization to visit Sri Lanka for Tourism.

Visa-exempt visitors entering Sri Lanka must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Travelers can apply online. Once approved, travelers receive their eTA confirmation electronically.

If travelers receive a new passport, they must apply for a new eTA.

Apply online for Tourism

Travelers under the age of 16 are advised to carry a consent letter

Travelers under 16 traveling alone are advised to carry their birth certificate and a parental consent letter. The letter must be signed by their parents giving consent for the child to travel unaccompanied or accompanied by a responsible adult. If the child is traveling alone, an additional affidavit from the person who will take care of the child in Sri Lanka is required.

Check the source for more details.

Contact your airline, as they may have additional requirements for minors beyond standard rules.

Children Under Sixteen Years not Traveling With Parents

See more details

Travelers require a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry

Travelers need a valid passport to enter Sri Lanka. The traveler's passport must remain valid for at least 6 months after the traveler arrives in Sri Lanka.

Mandatory proof of return or onward ticket from Sri Lanka

Travelers require proof of a ticket showing their entrance and exit from Sri Lanka.

This requirement doesn’t apply to the following travelers:

Nationals of Sri Lanka;
Foreign nationals residing in Sri Lanka.

Recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka

Travelers should consider:

Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccines;
Typhoid vaccine for visits to smaller cities or rural areas;
Routine vaccines including Measles;
Japanese Encephalitis vaccine for extended stays or rural activities (not recommended for short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese Encephalitis season).

Additional vaccine recommendations may apply. Consult your healthcare provider and check the source for details.

Step-by-step guide to Sri Lanka visa applications

Step 1: Find the visa you need

For American citizens traveling to Sri Lanka, it's important to find out the type of visa you need. Check if you need a single-entry eVisa, multiple-entry eVisa, or a visa on arrival. Once you know, you'll be ready to apply.

Step 2: Submit your application

Complete the online visa application. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure you have all the required documents. You may need a passport valid for at least six months after your visit, a return ticket, and proof of enough funds to cover any fees.

Step 3: Check your inbox

Once your visa is approved, you’ll receive an email with your eVisa and important instructions. Be sure to read everything carefully.

Travel requirements to Sri Lanka for American citizens

Sri Lanka visa requirements for American citizens

Electronic travel authorization for Business

Visa on arrival

Electronic travel authorization for Tourism

Travelers under the age of 16 are advised to carry a consent letter

Children Under Sixteen Years not Traveling With Parents

Travelers require a passport valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry

Mandatory proof of return or onward ticket from Sri Lanka

Recommended vaccinations for Sri Lanka

Step-by-step guide to Sri Lanka visa applications

Step 1: Find the visa you need

Step 2: Submit your application

Step 3: Check your inbox

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