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.
Each Sri Lanka ETA has specific conditions relating to validity, stay duration, and entries.
Validity: 180 days
Max Stay: 30 days
Number of Allowed Entries: Double
Validity: 180 days
Max Stay: 30 days
Number of Allowed Entries: Multiple
Validity: 2 days
Max Stay: 2 days
Number of Allowed Entries: Single
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.
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.
The validity period, stay duration and number of allowed entries are shown on the approved Sri Lanka ETA.
Travellers should not remain in Sri Lanka beyond the stay duration granted under their ETA. Overstaying may result in:
If additional time is required, an extension should be obtained before the authorised stay expires.
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.
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.
A Sri Lanka ETA may no longer be valid in certain circumstances, including:
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.