Sri Lanka Visa for Canadian Citizens
Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka from Canada?
Canadian visitors planning to travel to Sri Lanka must obtain a visa, except for those intending to reside or work there, who need to apply for a regular visa at a Sri Lankan consulate.
For short-term visits, Canadians can apply for an ETA online, valid for 30 days. There are three types of ETA:
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Tourist ETA: For leisure, family, medical, or cultural purposes.
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Business ETA: For professional, commercial, or educational purposes.
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Transit ETA: For transit through Sri Lanka for up to 2 days. Not required if transit time is under 8 hours and the traveler remains in the airport.
The tourist and business ETA can be extended for up to 6 months, provided the visa has not expired.
The online ETA application process is quick and straightforward, typically taking a few minutes to fill out and a few hours to process. Standard delivery time is 1 to 2 business days, with a priority option guaranteeing the ETA in 1 hour.
How long does it take for Canadians to get a Sri Lankan ETA?
To avoid delays, Canadians should apply for the ETA at least 2 business days before their trip. The ETA will be emailed and requires no paperwork or airport queues, making it more convenient than obtaining a regular visa from a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate.
How do I apply for a Sri Lanka Visa for Canadian citizens?
Canadian citizens visiting Sri Lanka must apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) online before travel.
Sri Lanka Visa Requirements for Canadian Citizens:
- A valid Canadian passport, with at least 6 months validity upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
- An email address to receive the ETA confirmation.
- A debit/credit card for ETA fee payment.
You'll need to provide basic personal information, including:
- Name, address, date of birth, and country of birth.
- Passport number, date of issue, and expiry date.
- Travel plans, including accommodation details and duration of stay.
- Purpose of visit: tourism, business, or transit.
Ensure to review your details carefully before submission to avoid delays or ETA denial. Upon receiving the ETA confirmation via email, print it out for presentation at the immigration counter upon arrival in Sri Lanka.