Sri Lanka is known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" and is among the favorite destinations for the Indian traveler due to the stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and serene beaches.
For an Indian tourist planning to visit this island paradise in 2025, knowing the Sri Lanka visa price for Indians is essential.
While the transit visa is free, the international destination of Sri Lanka is still within the budget of Indian tourists for longer durations.
This blog will give you a complete breakup of Sri Lanka visa fees, visa types, durations, and costs, along with travel tips to help you plan your trip effectively.
Types of Sri Lanka Visas for Indians
Sri Lanka offers various visa categories, each for specific travel purposes.
Here's a breakup of visa types and their respective Sri Lanka visa fees:
1. Tourist Visa
This visa is ideal for leisure travellers exploring Sri Lanka’s iconic destinations.
Sri Lanka Visa Cost 30 Days: Approx $28 (₹2,400) for online applications.
Duration: 30 days, extendable up to 90 days.
2. Business Visa
Perfect for professionals travelling for conferences, meetings, or corporate engagements.
Cost: Approx $100 (₹7,800), depending on the number of entries.
Duration: 60 days, with options for multiple entries.
3. Transit Visa
This visa is for transit passengers traveling through Sri Lanka to another destination.
Price: Free
Duration: Up to 48 hours.
4. Residence Visa
For a longer stay, for employment or education purposes. Prices are according to the type and period of the visa.
Complete Sri Lanka Visa Fee for Indian Citizens
Sri Lanka visa fees for Indian citizens depend on the way to apply and type of visa:
How to Apply for a Sri Lanka Visa
There are several ways Indians can obtain their Sri Lanka visa. The Sri Lanka visa price for Indians, along with the steps of the application process, make planning your trip a seamless affair:
1. Online using ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
The most convenient way and the cheapest method, as well.
Visit the ETA official website.
Fill out your application with the required information.
Pay the Sri Lanka visa fees online, and get approval via email within 48 hours
2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
VOA exists, though it is far more expensive and time-consuming to obtain, and applying is much easier through the online interface.
3. Through Agencies
Through travel agencies that include companies like Visa2Fly that can help minimize errors, and also can get your application approved in less time.
Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
Once you’ve sorted your visa, Sri Lanka offers a wealth of experiences for Indian travellers. Here are some must-visit destinations:
1. Colombo
The vibrant capital city blends modern attractions with historical landmarks.
Top Attractions: Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, and Pettah Floating Market.
Tip: Enjoy local Sri Lankan cuisine like hoppers and kottu at street-side eateries.
2. Kandy
A cultural treasure surrounded by misty hills.
Top Attractions: Temple of the Tooth Relic and Royal Botanical Gardens.
Tip: Take the scenic train from Colombo to Kandy.
3. Galle
A seaside gem and a treasure trove of colonial history.
Top Attractions: Galle Fort and Unawatuna Beach.
Tip: Rent a bicycle to meander through the cobblestone streets of Galle Fort.
4. Ella
An abode for adventure junkies and nature lovers.
Top Attractions: Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam's Peak.
Tip: Wake up early for the sunrise hike.
5. Sigiriya
A place of fame due to the Lion Rock Fortress.
Top Attractions: Sigiriya Rock and the surrounding water gardens.
Tip: Visit early to beat the crowds and heat.
Travel Tips for Indian Tourists
Here's how to make the most of your trip to Sri Lanka:
1. Budgeting
Currency: ₹1 = ~4 Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).
Carry small denominations in USD, as it's widely accepted for transactions.
2. Transport
Use public transport like buses and trains for cost-effective travel.
Tuk-tuks are excellent for short distances, but always agree on the fare upfront.
3. Weather
Best time to visit: December to April for the south and west coasts; May to September for the east coast.
4. Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting temples and remove your shoes before entering.
5. Visa Extensions
If you intend to stay longer, go to the Department of Immigration in Colombo. The first extension will add 60 days and costs approximately $60 (₹5,140).
FAQs
1. Is travel insurance required for a Sri Lanka visa for Indians?
Yes, it is even advisable and sometimes necessary if you want to be permitted to enter the country- travel insurance.
This service will cover you in case of medical emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and other unarranged events during your travel.
Visa2Fly offers trip insurance packages for Sri Lanka trips.
2. What are some of the documents required while applying for a visa of Sri Lanka?
Some documents are as follows:
- Scanned copy of passport to be valid for six months.
- Recent passport-sized photostat.
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statement or sponsorship letter).
- A confirmed return ticket.
For business visas, an invitation letter from the host company is also necessary.
3. Can children below 12 years apply for a Sri Lanka visa?
Yes, children below 12 years old need a visa to enter Sri Lanka; however, the good news is that the visa fee is not charged for them.
You would still have to go through the application process and submit all the required documents, such as the child's birth certificate and parental consent if traveling with one parent.
4. What happens if my Sri Lanka visa application is rejected?
If your visa application is rejected, you will be notified via email with a reason.
The most common reasons for rejection are incomplete forms, insufficient documentation, or failure to pay fees.
Once the issue is resolved, you can reapply. Visa2Fly helps applicants understand and address such concerns to avoid rejection.
5. Can I apply for a multiple-entry visa to Sri Lanka?
Yes, multiple-entry visas are available both for tourism and business.
These come in handy when traveling regularly. However, the cost of the multiple-entry visa is marginally higher, at $30 (₹2,570).
6. Do Indian passport holders need to register their stay in Sri Lanka?
Indian tourists who stay over 30 days or on extensions of visa need to report to the Department of Immigration in Colombo.
It requires reporting your accommodation and purpose of staying.
7. Can one get a refund for his/her visa fee if plans to travel get cancelled?
The government of Sri Lanka does not make refunds for visa fees should travel plans change.
The traveler can be saved such losses by availing visa cover under travel insurance that covers cancellations due to visa reasons.
8. Is it legal to work in Sri Lanka on a tourist visa?
No. Working in Sri Lanka on a tourist visa is strictly prohibited. If you are looking to work, you should apply for a residence visa or a work visa.
In this regard, sponsorship by a Sri Lankan employer is obligatory.
9. Is the biometric requirement applicable in Sri Lanka visa applications?
Currently, Sri Lanka does not require biometrics for Indian visa applicants.
However, this might be the case for certain cases, especially long-term visas.
10. How long does it take to process visa extensions in Sri Lanka?
The processing time for visa extensions is different, but usually, it takes 3-5 working days.
You should apply at least a week before your original visa expires to avoid fines for overstaying.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka is a perfect cultural, historical, and natural beauty package that no Indian traveler would want to miss.
Knowing the price of the Sri Lanka visa for Indians and the application procedure ensures a stress-free take-off to your journey.
Starting from exploring ancient sites such as Sigiriya and unwinding on the beaches of Galle, there are experiences that Sri Lanka promises to give you.
For a smooth visa application, rely on Visa2Fly. With expert guidance, fast processing, and transparent pricing, Visa2Fly ensures your trip to Sri Lanka begins on the right note. Start planning your adventure today!
