The year 2025 marks an important milestone for travelers heading to Sri Lanka. The government has officially transitioned from the previous ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system to a brand-new Sri Lanka E-Visa System, designed to make the entry process faster, clearer, and more secure. Whether you are visiting for leisure, adventure, a honeymoon, or a family holiday, the new e-visa platform provides travellers with a smoother, more user-friendly experience.
If you are planning your Sri Lanka holiday in 2025, understanding the updated e-visa requirements is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: visa types, eligibility, fees, documentation, step-by-step application instructions, processing times, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to ensure seamless approval.
As one of Sri Lanka’s leading travel companies, BH Lanka Tours helps thousands of tourists navigate the visa process every year. This guide is based on the latest updates to keep travellers fully informed and confident before their journey.
1. Introduction to Sri Lanka’s New E-Visa System in 2025
Sri Lanka replaced its traditional ETA system with the official E-Visa portal in late 2024, aligning with global digital entry standards. The new platform provides:
A streamlined online application
Faster immigration clearance
New visa categories
Enhanced security features
Clearer eligibility requirements
Wider payment options
Real-time status tracking
The goal is to make it easier for tourists to visit the island while improving immigration efficiency.
For travelers planning a 2025 holiday, the new e-visa system is mandatory. Without an approved visa, airlines may deny boarding and you will not be permitted entry upon arrival.
2. Who Needs a Sri Lanka E-Visa in 2025?
Almost all foreign nationals require an e-visa to enter Sri Lanka in 2025. This includes travelers visiting for:
Tourism
Business meetings
Short-term studies
Medical visits
Transit
Family visits
Visa-free entry applies only to:
Maldives
Seychelles
Singapore
Even these nationals may require specific entry permits depending on the purpose or duration of the stay.
3. Types of Sri Lanka E-Visas Available in 2025
The new system offers several visa categories to accommodate different traveller needs.
1. Tourist E-Visa (30 or 90 days)
This is the most popular visa for holiday travelers. You can apply for:
Single-Entry (30 days)
Double-Entry (30 days)
Multiple-Entry (90 days)
2. Business E-Visa
For short business visits, conferences, or trade events.
3. Transit E-Visa (48 hours)
For travellers passing through Colombo Airport with short layovers.
4. Medical E-Visa
For those entering Sri Lanka for short medical treatments or health consultations.
5. Journalist / Media E-Visa
Requires additional approvals and documentation.
4. Requirements for the Sri Lanka E-Visa (2025)
Before applying, make sure you have the following documents ready:
Valid passport (minimum 6-month validity from arrival date)
A clear passport-sized photograph
Return or onward flight ticket
Hotel booking or travel itinerary
Travel insurance (recommended but not mandatory)
Valid email address
Credit or debit card for payment
BH Lanka Tours assists travellers with itinerary confirmation and hotel documentation if needed.
5. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for the Sri Lanka E-Visa (2025)
The process is designed to be simple and can be completed in 10–15 minutes.
Step 1: Visit the Official E-Visa Platform
Only apply through the official government portal. Avoid third-party websites charging extra fees.
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Choose between:
Tourist E-Visa
Transit E-Visa
Business E-Visa
Medical or Other categories
Read each description carefully to avoid selecting the wrong visa.
Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application
Enter your personal and passport details exactly as they appear on your passport.
Any mismatch can delay approval.
Information you must enter includes:
Full name
Date & place of birth
Passport number
Nationality
Travel dates
Accommodation details
Purpose of visit
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Make sure your passport photo and passport copy are:
Clear
Not cropped incorrectly
Free of reflections or shadows
Poor-quality uploads are a common reason for delays.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Fees vary by nationality and visa type. Payments can be made using:
Visa
Mastercard
American Express
Digital wallets (region-dependent)
The payment is non-refundable even if the visa is rejected.
Step 6: Receive Confirmation Email
You will receive:
A submission receipt
A tracking number
Processing time ranges from 1–3 working days, but urgent approvals may take only a few hours.
Step 7: Download Your Approved E-Visa
Once approved, download the PDF copy.
Print at least one physical copy, and keep another stored on your mobile device.
Immigration officers may request either digital or printed proof.
6. Common Mistakes That Cause Visa Delays
To avoid complications, ensure you do not:
Enter incorrect passport numbers
Apply with a passport expiring soon
Upload unclear photographs
Use unofficial visa websites
Choose the wrong visa category
Submit incomplete accommodation details
BH Lanka Tours helps customers verify documents before submission to ensure hassle-free approval.
7. How Long Is the Sri Lanka E-Visa Valid For?
The 2025 tourist e-visa is typically valid for:
30 days from arrival for single or double entry
Up to 90 days for multiple entry visas
Extensions may be possible through the Department of Immigration but require in-country processing.
8. Do You Need a Return Ticket for Sri Lanka?
Yes. Immigration usually requires proof of either:
A return ticket
orA confirmed onward connection
Travelers arriving without a return ticket may face delays or denial of entry.
9. Tips for a Smooth Arrival at Sri Lankan Immigration
To ensure fast clearance:
Keep your e-visa printout ready
Carry your passport and travel itinerary
Provide hotel booking or tour confirmation if requested
Follow airport signage for e-visa counters
Answer questions politely and clearly
Sri Lankan immigration is generally efficient and tourist-friendly.
10. Can BH Lanka Tours Assist With the E-Visa?
Yes. While travelers must submit their own applications, BH Lanka Tours can provide:
Full itinerary confirmation
Hotel booking documents
Return ticket guidance
Step-by-step support
Real-time updates
Emergency assistance if issues arise at immigration
This ensures a stress-free start to your holiday.
Conclusion: The New E-Visa Makes Visiting Sri Lanka Easier Than Ever
Sri Lanka’s new 2025 e-visa system is designed to simplify the entry process for millions of visitors every year. With faster processing, clearer requirements, and a user-friendly interface, tourists can plan their Sri Lankan adventure with confidence.
Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, cultural wonders, wildlife safaris, tea country escapes, or guided tours, obtaining your visa is now easier, safer, and more efficient.
BH Lanka Tours stands ready to assist every traveller with planning, documentation, and real-time support to ensure a smooth journey from visa application to departure.
