Sri Lanka reinstates ETA requirement; Maldivians required to apply before travel

Sri Lanka has reinstated the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for all tourists, effective 25 May, reversing the exemption introduced in November last year.

The Sri Lankan High Commission in Malé announced that travellers visiting the country for tourism purposes must submit an ETA application from the 25th of this month.

However, the High Commission confirmed that Maldivian nationals will continue to receive a 90‑day tourist visa free of charge through the ETA system.

The permit, which must be obtained at least 24 hours before travel, can be applied for via the official website eta.gov.lk.

Sri Lanka has not exempted any nationality from the reinstated requirement.  

According to the High Commission, all foreign nationals entering Sri Lanka for tourism will be required to complete an ETA.