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Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka? Yes, Indian travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation before entering Sri Lanka. It’s a simple online process, but essential to complete before your trip. Many Indian tourists are eager to explore the island’s beaches, temples, and cultural heritage, but understanding entry requirements is the first step. Travel to another country always demands careful planning, especially when it comes to visa regulations. Always check the latest updates before your journey.
Do Indians Need A Visa For Sri Lanka?
Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka? Here’s everything you should know before planning travel.
Entry For Indian Citizens
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Indian citizens must receive approval before arriving in Sri Lanka. This rule is necessary for tourism, business, or transit travel. Travel should never begin without proper documents. Sri Lanka uses a digital travel approval process. This is different from a traditional visa. Instead of visiting an office, travellers apply online. Once the form is submitted and approved, permission is sent by email. It is important to keep this document safe and ready to show at the airport.
Why Travel Approval Is Required
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Countries have their own entry rules. For Sri Lanka, this approval allows the government to manage arrivals. It helps ensure each traveller has a reason for visiting. It also keeps records of people who come and go. Travel approval is not optional for Indians. Even for short trips, this step must be completed. If someone arrives without this approval, they may be refused entry. Flights may not allow boarding without proof of permission.
Who Can Apply And When
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Indian citizens can apply for Sri Lankan travel approval at any time before travel. However, it is wise to apply at least one week before your flight. This gives time to fix any mistakes, if needed. Children and adults each require separate approvals, even if they are travelling as a family. The travel approval process is designed for short visits. It works well for tourists, people on business meetings, or travellers stopping over. It is not suitable for long stays, study, or employment.
How To Apply For Approval
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The process begins online. The traveller must visit the official website, where they can fill out a form. This includes personal details, travel dates, passport number, and contact information. A recent photo and scanned passport copy are also needed. The traveller must choose the purpose of the visit. They must also provide proof of where they plan to stay. Once all sections are filled and documents uploaded, the payment is made by card. After submission, an email confirmation is received. Most approvals arrive within two or three days.
Documents Required For Application
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Before applying, it is smart to gather everything in advance. The following documents are necessary:
- A passport that is valid for at least six months
- A recent passport-size photograph
- Details of your stay, such as the hotel address
- A booking of your return or next flight
- A debit or credit card to pay the processing fee
Every piece of information must match the passport. Even small errors can delay or block the approval.
Approval Validity And Duration Of Stay
Photo: jackmac34 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Once granted, the approval is valid for six months. Travellers can enter Sri Lanka once or twice, depending on their selection. Each stay cannot exceed 30 days. If someone wishes to stay longer, they must apply for an extension before the current approval ends. Extensions are granted only in special cases. It is always safer to plan travel within the original duration. Overstaying can lead to fines or trouble during the next visit.
Arrival And What To Show
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At the airport in Sri Lanka, officers will check your documents. You must carry your passport, approval printout or digital copy, and flight details. You may also be asked for proof of your stay. Keep everything in a file to avoid stress. People with proper documents usually move through immigration quickly. It is a smooth process when rules are followed.
Can You Get Approval After Arrival?
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It is technically possible to get travel approval on arrival. However, this is not recommended. The process is longer, costs more, and approval is not always guaranteed. If anything is wrong, you may be sent back. This adds cost to the trip. The online process is safer and faster. Travellers should always apply for and receive approval before leaving India.
Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka? Yes, they do. Indian travellers must secure travel approval before arrival, and this step is essential. By preparing early and providing accurate information, the process becomes smooth and hassle-free. Once approved, you can enjoy your trip with full peace of mind. A little attention at the beginning ensures a stress-free journey. Plan your Sri Lanka adventure today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Malinda Bandara / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
