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Sri Lanka Visa for Canada Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Canadian citizens should apply online for a Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure, which functions as a pre-approved visa on arrival.

Guide last updated September 30, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival
  • Approved ETA printout or digital copy
  • Proof of return or onward travel
  • Proof of sufficient funds, roughly USD 15 per day suggested
  • Accommodation details for your stay

Visa types

  • ETA Tourist: 30 days validity, extendable in-country up to 6 months total
  • ETA Business: 30 days validity, for short business visits
  • Both are applied for online before travel via the official eta.gov.lk portal

Visa on arrival

  • Apply online through eta.gov.lk before departure; this functions as a pre-approved authorization rather than a true on-the-spot visa
  • Pay online by card, approximately USD 50-55 depending on category
  • Approval is typically emailed within minutes to 24 hours
  • If not obtained in advance, a visa can be issued at a Bandaranaike International Airport counter for a higher fee and longer wait, as a fallback option

Fees & processing time

  • ETA fee is approximately USD 50-55 online (roughly double if purchased at the airport counter)
  • Processing is near-instant to 24 hours online
  • Extensions beyond the initial 30 days are handled at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo, with fees roughly LKR 15,000-30,000 depending on duration

Tips for Canada travelers

  • Apply for the ETA online at least a few days before departure to avoid airport queues and higher on-arrival fees
  • Keep both a printed and digital copy of your approval
  • Use only the official eta.gov.lk domain, as third-party sites often charge inflated fees
  • If planning to stay longer than 30 days, start the extension process at the Colombo Immigration office well before the initial period expires

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.