Major Sri Lanka Visa Policy Change for 2025
Planning to visit the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean' in 2025? Be aware of a critical change to entry policy: The government of Sri Lanka has confirmed that effective October 15, 2025, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) facility for tourists and business visitors has been terminated.
This change means that all travelers—even from countries previously eligible for on-arrival visas—are now required to apply for and receive an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online *before* boarding their flight. You can no longer get your visa upon landing at Colombo (CMB) airport.
The move is intended to streamline immigration, enhance security, and improve the travel experience by managing tourist flow digitally. For travelers, this means one thing: you must plan ahead.
Get Your ETA Online Today
The 2025 Traveler's Must-Do Checklist
To ensure your trip goes smoothly, we've compiled this "must-do" checklist based on the new policy. We're re-using the table style from `travel.html` for clarity:
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Online ETA is Your Only Option Your only method of entry is now by applying for an ETA online in advance. Do not plan on getting any permit on arrival. This is the most critical change. |
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Application Timing We highly recommend submitting your ETA application at least 72 hours before your flight, after you have booked flights and hotels, to account for any potential processing delays. |
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Check Your Documents Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Sri Lanka. You will also need a valid credit card to pay the ETA processing fee. |
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Prepare for Entry Print or save your ETA approval notice. Upon arrival, you will need to present your ETA approval, valid passport, a return/onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to immigration. |
Authoritative Sources & Further Reading
To ensure your information is correct, always refer to official and high-authority sources. Here are the key links regarding this policy change:
- [External Link - Authoritative] UK Government (GOV.UK) Entry Requirements for Sri Lanka: GOV.UK Sri Lanka Travel Advice
- [External Link - Authoritative] KPMG Alert on the policy change: KPMG GMS Flash Alert
ETA Approved? Start Planning Your Trip
Once your ETA is approved, the adventure begins! Check out our other travel guides for more inspiration:
ETA Requirements in Detail
Make sure you have all the correct documents for your application. See our detailed requirements page.
See Requirements →
The Ultimate 2025 Train Guide
The Ella-Kandy train is a *must-do* for kids! Our guide covers tickets, routes, and the best views.
Read the Train Guide →
What Else to Pack?
Beyond the ETA, what other documents do you need? Check our full entry checklist.
See the Full Checklist →