Sri Lanka remains a popular travel destination for UAE residents, whether for leisure, family visits, or short business trips. As of 2026, the Sri Lanka visa for UAE residents process has reverted to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system following the suspension of the previously introduced e-Visa portal.
This guide explains how UAE residents can apply for a Sri Lanka visa using the current ETA system, what documents are required, how much it costs, and what travellers should know about upcoming visa-free proposals.
- Types of Sri Lankan visas available
- Eligibility and passport requirements for UAE residents
- Application system update for 2026
- Visa fees and processing times
- Step-by-step ETA application process
- Embassy and consular services in the UAE
- Visa-free entry proposals for 2026
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Types of Sri Lankan visas available
Sri Lanka offers several visa categories depending on the purpose of travel. Most UAE residents apply for entry using the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Tourist visa via ETA
This is the most common option for UAE residents travelling for holidays, visiting friends or family, medical treatment, or attending cultural or sporting events. Tourist ETAs are typically issued for 30 days with double entry, and extensions are possible after arrival.
Business visa via ETA
Business ETAs are intended for short-term professional visits such as meetings, training sessions, workshops, or negotiations. Supporting documents, including an invitation letter from a Sri Lankan company, are usually required.
Transit visa
Transit visas apply to travellers passing through Sri Lanka for a short stopover. In some cases, transit stays of up to two working days may be granted without a fee, depending on nationality and travel route.
Diplomatic, official, and journalist visas
These categories require additional approvals and official documentation, such as letters of commission or accreditation. Applications are generally handled through the Sri Lankan Embassy.
Eligibility and passport requirements for UAE residents
Before applying, travellers should ensure they meet the standard entry conditions set by Sri Lankan immigration authorities.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka. UAE residents are permitted to apply from within the UAE, but visa fees and eligibility are determined by nationality, not residency.
Applicants may also be asked to provide proof of onward travel, sufficient funds, and a recent photograph, depending on the visa category. Children under certain ages may qualify for fee exemptions, although an ETA is still required.
Application system update for 2026
Sri Lanka’s visa application process has undergone several changes in recent years.
As of January 2026, Sri Lanka has officially returned to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. The e-Visa portal introduced in April 2024 has been suspended following a Supreme Court order, and applications must now be submitted through the reinstated official ETA website.
Obtaining an ETA before travel is mandatory for most travellers and helps avoid delays or complications upon arrival.
Visa fees and processing times
Visa costs vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and the type of visa requested.
Tourist ETAs for non-SAARC nationals cost approximately AED 130 (USD 50) when applying online. SAARC passport holders benefit from reduced fees of around AED 75 (USD 20). Business ETAs generally carry higher fees, depending on nationality.
Children under 12 years of age are currently exempt from the visa fee, although an approved ETA is still required.
Processing times are typically efficient. Most ETA applications are approved within 1–3 business days, though delays may occur during peak travel periods or if documentation is incomplete.
Step-by-step ETA application process
Applying for a Sri Lanka visa as a UAE resident is straightforward when completed online.
- Start by confirming the correct visa type based on your travel purpose.
- Visit the official Sri Lanka ETA portal (eta.gov.lk) and complete the online application form using accurate personal and travel details.
- Prepare your documents in advance. These usually include a passport valid for at least six months, proof of onward or return travel, and accommodation details or a host invitation. Business travellers must also provide an invitation letter and relevant company documents.
- Once the application is submitted, pay the applicable fee online.
- Approved ETAs are issued electronically and should be printed or saved digitally for presentation upon arrival.
Travellers wishing to stay beyond the initial validity period can apply for extensions through Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration in Colombo. Tourist stays may be extended to a total of 270 days, subject to approval.
Embassy and consular services in the UAE
While most applications are completed online, embassy services remain available for certain cases.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi provides support for travellers who cannot apply online or who fall under special visa categories. For embassy-based applications, it is advisable to apply well in advance, particularly for business, journalist, or long-stay visas.
Visa services are generally offered on weekdays, with specific submission hours.
Visa-free entry proposals for 2026
Sri Lanka has announced plans to introduce a visa-fee waiver for citizens of selected countries, including the UAE, as part of a tourism initiative expected to roll out in 2026.
However, until the official ETA portal reflects a zero-fee option, travellers should continue to apply and pay the standard ETA fees. Policies may change at short notice, so checking official sources before booking is strongly recommended.
Key takeaways
As of 2026, UAE residents must apply for a Sri Lanka visa through the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, as the e-Visa portal has been suspended. Tourist ETAs are issued for 30 days with double entry and can be extended after arrival, while business travel requires additional documentation. Visa fees depend on nationality, with reduced rates for SAARC passport holders and fee exemptions for children under 12. Although a visa-free scheme has been announced for selected countries, standard ETA fees remain applicable until officially waived.
FAQs
Yes. UAE residents can apply from within the UAE, but visa fees and eligibility are determined by nationality rather than residency.
Applying one to two weeks before travel is generally sufficient. For business or special-category visas, applying earlier is recommended.
Yes. Tourist visas can be extended by Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration for a longer stay, up to 270 days.
Travellers are expected to obtain an ETA before arrival. Applying in advance helps avoid entry delays.
Yes. Children must obtain an ETA, although those under 12 are currently exempt from the visa fee.
