Sri Lanka extends free ETA to 40 nationalities from May 2026
Sri Lanka has expanded its free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme to include nationals of 40 countries, effective 25 May 2026. The change removes the application fee for eligible travelers, notably British passport holders, and applies to all new arrivals from the listed nations.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Free ETA now available for nationals of 40 countries
- Timing
- Effective from 25 May 2026
- Who is affected
- Travelers holding passports of the 40 eligible countries
The details
- Takes effect
- 25 May 2026
- Previous rule
- British passport holders previously paid a fee to obtain a tourist ETA for Sri Lanka.
- New rule
- The ETA is now free for nationals of 40 countries, including the United Kingdom, for a 30‑day stay.
Policy Change Overview
Sri Lanka announced an expansion of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, removing the application fee for travelers from 40 designated countries. The move aims to simplify entry procedures and encourage higher visitor numbers as part of the country’s 2030 tourism target.
Implementation and Eligibility
Eligible travelers must still obtain an ETA before arrival, but the online application will no longer require payment. The free authorisation is valid for 30 days and permits two entries within that period. Extensions beyond 30 days remain subject to a paid application.
- Apply online through the official Sri Lanka ETA portal
- Provide passport details and travel dates
- No fee is charged for eligible nationalities
Implications for Travelers and Industry
The fee removal is expected to make Sri Lanka more attractive to tourists, especially from the United Kingdom, which is a major source market. Tour operators and hotels can market the cost‑free entry as a selling point, while airlines may see increased demand on routes such as the new British Airways winter service from London Gatwick.
- Potential rise in bookings from the 40 eligible markets
- Airlines may adjust capacity to match increased demand
- Hospitality providers can promote the free ETA in promotional material
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with existing bookings should verify that their passport nationality is among the 40 eligible countries.
- Those planning trips after 25 May 2026 can remove the ETA fee from their travel budget.
Cost and documents
- No ETA application fee is required for eligible nationals.
- Travelers must still present a valid passport and obtain the ETA before departure.
What you need to do
- Apply for the free ETA online before travel, using the official portal.
- Check the list of the 40 eligible countries to confirm eligibility.
- If staying longer than 30 days, plan for a paid extension before the current ETA expires.
Who this affects
-
British passport holders
The United Kingdom is one of the 40 countries now covered by the free ETA scheme.
What to do Obtain a free 30‑day ETA online before arrival.
-
Nationals of other 39 eligible countries
Their passports are included in the expanded free ETA list.
What to do Apply for the free ETA prior to travel.
-
Travel agents and tour operators
They sell packages to travelers from the eligible countries and must reflect the fee removal.
What to do Update pricing and marketing materials to highlight the free ETA.
-
Airlines operating flights to Sri Lanka
Increased demand from fee‑free travelers may affect seat inventory.
What to do Monitor booking trends and adjust capacity as needed.
-
Hotel and hospitality providers
Higher visitor numbers are anticipated from the fee‑free entry incentive.
What to do Prepare for potential occupancy increases during peak periods.
Frequently asked questions
Do British passport holders need to pay for a Sri Lanka ETA after May 2026?
No, British passport holders can obtain a 30‑day tourist ETA for free starting 25 May 2026, provided they apply online before arrival.
Which countries are included in Sri Lanka's free ETA scheme?
The scheme covers nationals of 40 countries, including the United Kingdom; the full list is published on the official Sri Lanka ETA website.
Can I enter Sri Lanka twice on the same free ETA?
Yes, the free ETA allows two entries within its 30‑day validity period, starting from the date of first arrival.
What if I need to stay longer than 30 days on a free ETA?
Travelers must apply for a paid extension before the original 30‑day ETA expires; the free status does not apply to extensions.
Will the free ETA affect airline ticket prices to Sri Lanka?
Airline ticket prices are set by carriers, but the removal of the ETA fee may encourage airlines to see higher demand and could influence future pricing strategies.
