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Sri Lanka Visa for Zambia Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Zambian citizens can obtain a Sri Lanka visa on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, or apply in advance online via the ETA portal; fee around USD 50, processing immediate on arrival or within 24-48 hours online.

Guide last updated November 2, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay
  • Online ETA application or on-arrival visa form
  • Return or onward ticket
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Proof of sufficient funds (USD 15 per day recommended minimum)
  • Digital passport photo for the online ETA; not required at the airport counter
  • No biometrics required for short-term visa on arrival
  • Travel insurance recommended

Visa types

  • Tourist visa (on arrival or ETA): single entry, 30 days, extendable, fee approx USD 50
  • Business visa (on arrival or ETA): single entry, 30 days, fee approx USD 50, requires sponsor details
  • Transit visa: short stay under 2 days, often fee-free

Visa on arrival

  • Available at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo
  • Present passport, return ticket, and accommodation proof at the visa counter
  • Pay the USD 50 fee in cash (USD preferred) or by card where accepted
  • Processing at the counter typically takes 10-20 minutes
  • Alternatively, apply online via the ETA portal 24-48 hours before travel to receive approval by email and skip the queue

Fees & processing time

  • Visa on arrival / ETA fee: USD 50 (single entry, 30 days)
  • No separate service fee for direct government applications
  • On-arrival processing: 10-20 minutes
  • Online ETA processing: 24-48 hours

Tips for Zambia travelers

  • Apply for the ETA online a few days ahead during peak season (Dec-Mar) to avoid long airport queues
  • Carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds, as officers check both at the counter
  • Extensions of up to 90 days total are available at the Department of Immigration in Colombo
  • Keep a printed or digital copy of the ETA approval for presentation at check-in and arrival
  • Carry small USD denominations for the visa fee, as change may not always be available

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.