Travel Requirements for Indian Citizens to Travel to Sri Lanka
Indian citizens traveling to Sri Lanka need to apply for visa. However, it is pretty easy to obtain one online. ETA (Electronic travel authorization) can be obtained online at:
1. http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/fees.jsp for $15
2. Sri Lanka Overseas mission for $15
3. On arrival at the port of entry for $20
Once you apply for ETA you will be provided with single entry for 30 days of stay. I was very amazed with the speed with which my ETA was approved within 30 minutes of applying. I traveled to Sri Lanka in December 2013. Sri Lanka allows two days of single entry transit visa for free. Renewal of tourist visa beyond 30 days is possible for 2 months. Any further extension will require valid reason. However, one can depart and come back again. Children under 12 years are exempted from ETA.
I found citizens of Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles are exempted from ETA for a travel period of 30 days. This is on a reciprocal basis between Sri Lanka and those countries.
Sri Lanka is a beautiful country. It has sea, hills, forest and a world of its own. People are friendly and the country is much more efficient than we think from outside.
