Do you live in the UAE and would like to travel to the beautiful, historical and culturally diverse country of Sri Lanka in 2025? Whether the trip is of leisure, adventurous, or a business travel, it is most crucial to prepare well for the traveling process. The first thing that you will need to determine is the Sri Lanka visa for UAE residents. It is therefore important to know the requirements for the visa so that one does not have to worry about it when planning for a trip.
In this blog, you will get all the necessary information about Sri Lanka visa for the people living in Dubai and other cities of UAE. We’ve got you covered when it comes to the types of visas, the requirements for obtaining the visa, among others. Alright, let’s proceed to the information that will be helpful when it comes to getting your visa and preparing for an amazing trip to Sri Lanka!
- Will UAE Residents Need Visa to Sri Lanka in 2025?
Yes, it is important for the UAE residents to know that they require a visa to enter Sri Lanka. Fortunately, it is quite simple and there are a number of possibilities. In 2025, the government of Sri Lanka has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the UAE residents to make it easier for them to apply for the visa before travelling.
- The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Your Ticket to Sri Lanka
The Sri Lanka visa for the citizens of UAE can be applied through the ETA system if it is to be obtained from Dubai or any other city in the UAE. The ETA also lets the people of UAE get their visa without having to go to a consulate or an embassy. This process is very efficient and can be completed from the comfort of one’s home.
To apply for the ETA, the following is required:
- A passport valid for at least six months of stay in the country is required.
- A credit card or debit card to pay the processing fee
- A recent passport-size photograph
- Your flight number and the dates of travel
- Types of Sri Lanka Visas for UAE Residents
However, there are various types of visas that one can apply for depending on the reason for visit.
- Tourist Visa (ETA): Ideal for UAE residents planning a vacation or leisure trip to Sri Lanka. This visa is valid for 30 days and may be renewed for another 60 days.
- Business Visa (ETA): For those visiting Sri Lanka for business meetings, conferences, or trade-related activities. In the case of business purposes, the validity of the ETA is 30 days.
- Transit Visa: If your intention is to pass through the Sri Lanka to another country you can apply for a transit visa.
- How to Apply for Sri Lanka Visa from Dubai
The process of applying for your Sri Lanka visa while in Dubai is as follows:
- Go to the official website for the issuance of the Sri Lankan ETA.
- Choose the category of the visa you require (tourist, business, etc.).
- When applying for the online form, make sure to fill in your personal information as required.
- Scan the passport and any other documents that are required for upload and submit the scan.
- Make the payment of the processing fees using a credit or debit card.
- Await the approval, which may take a few days of business days.
Once you receive this approval, you will be sent an ETA approval notice through your email and it is advisable to print it and take with you when traveling to Sri Lanka.
- How Much Does a Sri Lanka Visa Cost for UAE Residents?
The duration of a Sri Lanka visa for UAE residents depends on the type of visa that one applies for. For a tourist visa the charges normally vary between $20 and $40 USD. It is therefore advised that you always visit the official website to check the current rates of charges.
- Important Tips for Traveling to Sri Lanka from the UAE
- Ensure that your passport has at least six months validity from the date you intend to arrive in Sri Lanka.
- It is recommended that you keep with you a copy of the approval of your ETA during the journey.
- Ensure that you confirm your flight details and the details of the accommodation you intend to stay before applying for the visa.
- For those who wish to stay longer in the country, apply for an extension at the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration.
Conclusion:
With the knowledge of the process of getting a Sri Lanka visa from UAE, you can now proceed and organize your trip to Sri Lanka. Regardless of whether the purpose of your trip is for tourism or business, there are no problems with the Sri Lanka visa from Dubai as you can apply for it online through the ETA system. However, it is advisable to apply early enough to avoid a rush towards the end in order to secure a comfortable trip.
Once your visa has been processed, you’ll have only one thing left to do and that is to prepare for the exciting time you will have in Sri Lanka! Visitors will surely be charmed by what Sri Lanka has to offer from sandy beaches to historical sights. Therefore, it is recommended that you begin planning early and prepare yourself for a wonderful time in this amazing place.
