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Sri Lanka Visa for China Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Sri Lankan ETA (visa on arrival) for Chinese citizens is obtained online at https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/; ETA fee USD 35; processing is usually within 24 hours; stay up to 30 days per visit.

Guide last updated September 4, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival, with at least one blank page.
  • Specific forms: The Sri Lanka ETA is applied online via https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/; there is no separate paper visa form for visa on arrival; print the ETA approval or keep a digital copy.
  • Financial proof: Not required to show funds upfront for ETA; ensure you have sufficient funds for your stay; immigration may ask for proof at the border but there is no fixed amount.
  • Accommodation and return ticket: It is recommended to have a confirmed hotel reservation and a return/onward ticket; immigration may request proof of accommodation or onward travel.
  • Photo spec: No separate passport photo upload is required for the ETA application; if a photo is requested, provide a recent passport-style photo.
  • Biometrics: Biometrics are not typically collected for ETA on arrival.
  • Travel health insurance: Not mandatory but highly recommended.

Visa types

  • Tourist ETA — Official name: Tourist ETA; Validity: 90 days from approval; Max stay per visit: 30 days; Entry: Single; Approx. fee: USD 35.
  • Business ETA — Official name: Business ETA; Validity: 90 days from approval; Max stay per visit: 30 days; Entry: Single; Approx. fee: USD 35.
  • Other categories (Student/Work): Not available via visa on arrival/ETA. For study, work or long-term stays, apply for the appropriate visa through a Sri Lankan embassy or consulate; official names and requirements vary.

Application process

  • Visa on arrival: which ports, steps, fee and accepted currencies, queue tips
  • Ports: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the primary port for visa on arrival; always verify current rules before travel.
  • How to apply online: Go to https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ and complete the online ETA application with your passport details; pay the ETA fee online using a credit/debit card; you will receive an ETA approval by email; print the approval or keep a digital copy.
  • On arrival steps: Present your passport, ETA approval (printout or digital), and any requested documents to the immigration officer at the VOA counter; pay the visa on arrival fee if required and receive your entry stamp.
  • Fees and currencies: ETA fee is USD 35; at the VOA counter you can pay in USD or Sri Lankan rupees (LKR); card payments may be accepted depending on the airport.
  • Queue tips: Apply early to ensure ETA approval before arrival; go to the VOA counters with the ETA approval ready; have printed copies handy; be prepared for potentially long queues during peak travel periods.

Fees & processing time

  • ETA fee: USD 35; Local currency equivalent (LKR) varies with exchange rates (approximately around 12,000–13,000 LKR). VFS/BLS service fees do not apply to ETA/visa on arrival. Total cost estimate: USD 35 for the ETA plus any airport or domestic charges if applicable. Standard processing time: ETA approvals are usually issued within 24 hours of online application; on arrival, visa stamping is immediate if the passport and ETA are in order. Express/priority option: Not available for ETA/visa on arrival; processing depends on arrival queue at the port.

Tips for China travelers

  • Plan ahead: Apply for the ETA at least 1–2 weeks before travel to account for any processing delays; ensure passport data exactly matches your travel documents.
  • Common rejection reasons for China applicants: Name/date of birth mismatch with passport, passport validity less than 6 months, incomplete application data, or travel history issues; ensure consistency and accuracy.
  • VOA vs embassy: For visa on arrival, use the official ETA portal (eta.gov.lk) and proceed at the airport; avoid third-party agents offering expedited VOA.
  • Travel advisories: Check current travel advisories from the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese government before travel; monitor for any changes to border entry rules.
  • Extension options: If you need to extend your stay, apply for an extension at the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration before your current visa expires; extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis and involve a fee.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

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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.