Yes, a visa is required to travel from South Korea to Sri Lanka.
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Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka from South Korea?
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South Korean nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before travelling to Sri Lanka for tourism.
Sri Lanka runs an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that South Korean travellers apply for before departure. The application is filed on the official srilankaevisa.lk portal and the approval is linked to the passport. Some entry points may still offer visa on arrival, but an ETA obtained in advance avoids airport queues.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. A South Korean citizen needs authorisation to enter Sri Lanka, obtained through the ETA system. This electronic clearance replaces the sticker visa and covers short tourist stays. It is checked by the airline and by Sri Lankan immigration on arrival.
How and where to apply
Apply online at the official srilankaevisa.lk portal. The traveller enters passport details and trip information and pays the fee by card. No visit to the Sri Lankan embassy in Seoul is required for standard tourism; a visa on arrival may exist in some cases, but the pre-arranged ETA remains the recommended route.
Documents and fees
Have a South Korean passport valid for at least six months beyond entry, an accommodation address and an onward or return ticket ready. The exact fee and validity period are not confirmed here: check the official rate shown on srilankaevisa.lk when applying. Keep the ETA confirmation, printed or digital.
Processing and tips
The ETA is processed online and often quickly, but submit a few days before departure to allow for any extra checks. Make sure the passport number entered is identical to the travel document. Note the ETA reference number so you can present it easily at check-in.
Common mistakes
Do not rely solely on visa on arrival if your itinerary or airline requires prior authorisation: favour the ETA. Avoid sites that mimic the official portal and overcharge for the service. Finally, confirm that passport validity clearly exceeds the required six months, or entry may be refused.
Official sources
- Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – official portal
- Sri Lanka Department of Immigration & Emigration
- Republic of Korea – overseas travel safety (0404) portal
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.
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- Fire brigade : 110
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Sri Lanka from South Korea?▾
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
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