Yes, a visa is required to travel from United Kingdom to Sri Lanka.
Apply with iVisa· from €56
Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka from United Kingdom?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Yes, British citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), Sri Lanka's tourist e-Visa, applied for online before departure.
For a tourist trip to Sri Lanka, UK travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding. It is requested online through the official portal srilankaevisa.lk and serves as a short-stay tourist visa. An on-arrival counter sometimes exists, but the ETA obtained in advance is the most reliable and often cheaper route.
Do you need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes. Holders of a British passport must have an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Sri Lanka as tourists. It is a short-stay e-Visa linked electronically to your passport. Some travellers can regularise their status on arrival, but it is strongly recommended to obtain the ETA before departure.
How and where to apply
The application is made online through the official portal https://www.srilankaevisa.lk. Enter your personal and travel details, provide your accommodation address in Sri Lanka, then pay the fee by card. Approval usually arrives by email: keep the ETA confirmation to show at check-in and at immigration control. Avoid intermediary sites that imitate the official portal and charge surcharges.
Documents and fees
Carry a British passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. You may be asked for your itinerary, an accommodation address and, where applicable, proof of sufficient funds or an onward ticket. The ETA fee varies by category and nationality: check the current amount directly on srilankaevisa.lk before paying, as it can change.
Processing and practical tips
The ETA is often processed quickly, but no timeframe is guaranteed: apply several days before departure. Check that the passport number and the spelling of your name match your document exactly, as the ETA is linked to it electronically. Print a copy of the approval and keep a digital version accessible offline.
Common mistakes and good to know
The most common mistake is going through an unofficial third-party site: use only srilankaevisa.lk. Do not travel assuming you can sort everything out on arrival, as on-arrival conditions can change. Finally, respect the authorised length and purpose of stay: the tourist ETA does not permit work, and overstaying can lead to a fine on departure.
Official sources
- Sri Lanka ETA — Portail officiel des visas électroniques
- Department of Immigration and Emigration (Sri Lanka)
- UK Government — Foreign travel advice: Sri Lanka
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential Sri Lanka information
Sri Lanka is an island nation in the Indian Ocean located south of India. The country is experiencing gradual economic recovery with 5% growth in 2024 and a per-capita GDP of USD 4,516. Sri Lanka is pursuing ambitious digital transformation, including the planned launch of a national digital identity in 2026.
Weather in Colombo
Practical travel information
- Cinghalais
- Tamoul
- Anglais
Essential preparations
- Police : 119
- Ambulance : 110
- Fire brigade : 110
Discover the best activities and experiences in Sri Lanka
- ✅ Free cancellation up to 24h before
- 🌍 Over 150,000 activities worldwide
- ⭐ Verified reviews from real travelers
- 💬 24/7 customer support
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka from United Kingdom?▾
Yes, an e-visa (electronic visa) is required. It is applied for online before departure and allows a stay of 90 days.
How long can you stay in Sri Lanka?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 90 days.
What other visa types exist for Sri Lanka?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Sri Lanka offers among others: Business eTA, Work / Residence visa, Student visa, Family Reunification, My Dream Home retirement programme, Transit visa.
Data verified on 23/07/2026
Other visas from United Kingdom
Visa alerts and regulations
Receive the latest visa updates and travel advice
We will never share your email. Unsubscribe at any time.