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Sri Lanka Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Afghanistan citizens require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short stays in Sri Lanka, applied for online; for longer stays or other purposes, a visa is required from a Sri Lankan mission abroad.

Guide last updated July 27, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • ETA Application Form: Completed online via the official ETA portal.
  • Financial Proof: While not explicitly stated for ETA, it is advisable to carry sufficient funds for your stay (e.g., bank statements, credit cards). A minimum of USD 50 per day of stay is a common guideline, though not a strict requirement for ETA.
  • Accommodation: Proof of hotel bookings or a clear itinerary of your stay.
  • Return Ticket: A confirmed return or onward ticket is mandatory.
  • Photo: No specific photo upload is usually required for ETA, but carry passport-sized photos (2x2 inches, white background) as a precaution.
  • Biometrics: Not required for ETA application. May be required for visa sticker applications at a mission.
  • Travel Health Insurance: While not always mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation is highly recommended.

Visa types

  • Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): For tourism and short business visits.
  • Validity: 30 days from the date of arrival.
  • Max Stay: 30 days (extendable).
  • Entry: Single entry (though generally allows multiple entries within the 30-day validity if re-entering from certain neighboring countries, check current regulations).
  • Approximate Fee: USD 50 (standard fee).
  • Tourist Visa (Sticker Visa): For longer stays or specific tourism purposes not covered by ETA.
  • Requires application at a Sri Lankan mission abroad.
  • Validity & Max Stay: Varies based on application, typically up to 3 months.
  • Entry: Single or Multiple Entry.
  • Approximate Fee: Varies, can range from USD 25-75 depending on duration and entry type.
  • Business Visa (Sticker Visa): For attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities not covered by ETA.
  • Requires application at a Sri Lankan mission abroad.
  • Validity & Max Stay: Varies, typically for short-term business.
  • Entry: Single Entry.
  • Approximate Fee: Varies, often around USD 25-40.
  • Other Visas (Student, Work, etc.): Require direct application at a Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate abroad with prior approval from relevant Sri Lankan authorities. Detailed documentation specific to the visa category will be needed. Fees and processing times vary significantly.

How to apply online (ETA)

  • Visit the official Sri Lankan ETA portal: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
  • Click on 'Apply for ETA'.
  • Select your nationality (Afghanistan) and the type of ETA (e.g., Tourism).
  • Fill in the online application form accurately with personal details, passport information, travel plans, and contact information.
  • Upload a scanned copy of your passport's bio-data page.
  • Pay the ETA processing fee online using a valid credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express).
  • You will receive an acknowledgment of your application via email. The ETA approval is typically sent via email within 24-72 hours. Print this approval letter and carry it with you. On arrival, you will present this along with your passport to the immigration officer.

Fees & processing time

  • ETA Fee: Approximately USD 50 for standard processing.
  • Service Fee: No additional service fee for direct online ETA applications.
  • Total Cost Estimate: USD 50 per applicant.
  • Standard Processing Time: 24-72 hours (working days).
  • Express/Priority Option: Not typically available for the standard ETA. For urgent applications, apply as early as possible. If immediate travel is required, consider applying at a Sri Lankan mission abroad for a sticker visa, though this also has processing times.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply for ETA well in advance: While processing is usually quick, it's best to apply at least 7-10 days before your planned departure to avoid last-minute issues.
  • Common rejection reasons: Incomplete or inaccurate information on the ETA form, insufficient funds, unclear travel purpose, previous visa violations, or if the applicant is flagged by security systems. For Afghanistan nationals, scrutiny might be higher, so ensure all details are precise and supporting documents (if requested) are readily available.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: The ETA is the most convenient option for short stays. For other visa types or if ETA is denied, you will need to approach the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate, or designated visa application centers (like VFS Global, if applicable for your region) for a sticker visa.
  • Current travel advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories from your country's foreign ministry and from Sri Lanka's Department of Immigration and Emigration before planning your trip.
  • Extension options inside Sri Lanka: If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 30 days granted by the ETA, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo. This typically requires a valid reason and sufficient financial proof. Extensions are granted at the discretion of the Controller General of Immigration.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.