Most visitors need approval before arriving in Sri Lanka, usually an online Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Here is how to think about it before you book flights.
Do New Zealanders need an ETA?
Visitors from many countries, including New Zealand, have generally needed an ETA or an equivalent online approval before arriving for tourism or a family visit. The category, fee and processing steps depend on the purpose of your trip and your passport, and they change. Check the current requirements for your own situation.
Where to apply
- Start from the Department of Immigration and Emigration’s official site, immigration.gov.lk, and follow its links to the official application platform.
- The long-running official ETA site is eta.gov.lk. Check that the address and the page match what the official site says today.
- Avoid lookalike websites that charge extra fees. If a site you found through search looks different from the official one, go back and start again.
What to have ready
- A passport that is valid for the length of your stay. Many countries require several months’ validity on arrival, so check the exact rule.
- Your travel dates and where you will stay, including a family address if you are visiting relatives.
- A way to pay online, and a copy of the approval, on your phone and printed, to show at check-in and on arrival.
When to apply
Apply once your dates are firm and early enough to leave time for the approval, but not so early that it expires before you travel. If you are flying for Sinhala and Tamil New Year in April, or at Christmas, apply well before the airlines and the immigration site get busy.
Plan your flights
If your plans are not final, ask us about flexible fares. See flights from Auckland to Colombo, or request a free quote.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an ETA to visit Sri Lanka from New Zealand?
Most visitors need approval in advance, usually an online ETA. Check the official Sri Lankan immigration site for what applies to your passport and purpose today.
Can I apply for the ETA when I land?
Some visitors may be able to, sometimes at a higher fee, but you can be refused boarding if you don’t have the right approval. It is safer to apply online before you fly.
Can Quick Trips apply for my ETA?
We can book your flights and answer general questions, but we can’t give immigration advice. Use the official government site for your application.
