Sri Lanka has launched visa-free ETA access for Indians. Key details
Sri Lanka has rolled out a free ETA scheme for travellers from 40 countries, including India. Indian tourists can now apply online for a free 30-day travel authorisation before flying to the island nation.
Indian travellers planning a quick beach holiday now have one less thing to worry about. Sri Lanka has officially started a free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for citizens of 40 countries, including India. Under the new Sri Lanka free ETA policy, Indian passport holders can visit the country for up to 30 days without paying visa charges.
Travellers still need to apply online through the ETA system before arrival, but the process is now free of cost.
The move is expected to make Sri Lanka an even more popular international destination for Indian tourists looking for affordable short-haul holidays.
COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE FOR FREE SRI LANKA ETA
WHAT THE NEW SRI LANKA FREE ETA MEANS
The Sri Lanka visa-free for Indians arrangement came into effect on May 25, 2026. Indian nationals can now receive a free tourist ETA valid for 30 days with a double-entry facility from the date of first arrival.
While the visa fee has been removed, travellers must still complete the ETA application online before travelling to Sri Lanka.
The official Sri Lankan ETA portal has confirmed that all foreign nationals covered under the scheme need prior Electronic Travel Authorisation.
40 COUNTRIES INCLUDED IN THE SCHEME
Apart from India, the list includes countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, China, Germany, Australia, Russia, Japan, UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Sri Lanka has also continued its reciprocal travel arrangements with Maldives, Seychelles and Singapore.
According to Sri Lanka’s immigration department, the free ETA applies to travellers holding diplomatic, official, service and ordinary passports.
WHY THIS MATTERS FOR INDIAN TRAVELLERS
India remains Sri Lanka’s biggest source market for inbound tourism, and the latest Sri Lanka travel update is likely to push tourist numbers even higher.
The shorter travel time, affordable stays and simplified entry rules make Sri Lanka one of the easiest overseas trips for Indian travellers right now.
For travellers planning a quick international break, the Sri Lanka tourist visa change could also help save both time and money. However, travellers are advised to use only the official ETA website while applying online.