Sri Lanka ETA Validity

Understanding the validity of a Sri Lanka ETA is important before planning your trip. The validity period determines how long the ETA remains usable for travel, while the stay duration determines how long you may remain in Sri Lanka after arrival. 

These are separate conditions and should not be confused.

deadline concept with red mark on calendar date

Types of Sri Lanka ETAs and their Validities 

Each Sri Lanka ETA has specific conditions relating to validity, stay duration, and entries. 

Tourist ETA

Validity: 180 days

Max Stay: 30 days

Number of Allowed Entries: Double

Business ETA

Validity: 180 days

Max Stay: 30 days

Number of Allowed Entries: Multiple

Transit ETA

Validity: 2 days

Max Stay: 2 days

Number of Allowed Entries: Single

ETA for Minor (Under 12)

Validity: 180 days

Max Stay: 30 days

Number of Allowed Entries: Double

Note: The number of entries indicates how many times a traveller may enter Sri Lanka using the same ETA during its validity period.

FAQ: Does the 30-Day Stay Start from the Date of Issue?
No. The permitted stay period begins from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka, provided the traveller enters while the ETA remains valid.

Does ETA Validity Start from the Date of Issue?

Yes. The ETA validity period begins from the date the ETA is approved and issued. Travellers should therefore ensure that their travel dates fall within the ETA validity period.

How can the Validity of a Sri Lanka ETA be checked? 

The validity period, stay duration and number of allowed entries are shown on the approved Sri Lanka ETA. 

What Happens if a Sri Lanka ETA is Overstayed? 

Travellers should not remain in Sri Lanka beyond the stay duration granted under their ETA. Overstaying may result in: 

  • Fines, penalties, difficulties with future visa applications, or other immigration consequences.

If additional time is required, an extension should be obtained before the authorised stay expires. 

Can a Sri Lanka ETA Be Extended? 

Eligible travellers may apply for an extension of stay after arriving in Sri Lanka. Approval of an extension is subject to the requirements and decisions of the Sri Lankan immigration authorities. 

Travellers wishing to remain beyond their authorised stay should apply before their permitted stay expires.

What Happens When a Sri Lanka ETA Expires? 

Once the ETA validity period expires, the ETA can no longer be used to enter Sri Lanka. Travellers who have not used their ETA within the validity period may need to obtain a new ETA before travelling.

When Does a Sri Lanka ETA Become Invalid? 

A Sri Lanka ETA may no longer be valid in certain circumstances, including:

  • The ETA validity period has expired.
  • All permitted entries have been used, making the ETA unusable for further travel. 
  • The traveller obtains a new passport after the ETA is issued.
  • The passport used for travel differs from the passport used during the ETA application.
  • The ETA is cancelled or revoked by the relevant authorities.

Content Disclaimer: This information is current as of July 2026. However, visa and travel requirements may change, so we recommend confirming the latest details with the appropriate government authorities, embassies, and airlines before travelling.