Sri Lanka Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australian passport holders must obtain a Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before arrival, valid for up to 30 days, at a cost of USD 50.
Australia passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Sri Lanka.
Apply for the ETA online at the Sri Lanka ETA portal (eta.gov.lk) before departure. The application requires a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and payment of USD 50 by credit or debit card. The ETA is typically issued within 24 hours and is valid for 30 days. It allows a double-entry stay. On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo or Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, present your passport and ETA approval.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to Sri Lanka: What You Need to Know
Sri Lanka is a diverse island nation offering ancient temples, lush tea plantations, pristine beaches, and rich wildlife. The country has largely recovered from its 2022 economic crisis, with political stability improving and tourism infrastructure returning to pre-crisis levels. The Australian government advises exercising normal safety precautions. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas, and ocean swimming carries risks due to strong currents and limited lifeguard services on many beaches.
Practical Tips
Apply for your ETA before departure using only the official eta.gov.lk website to avoid third-party fees. Sri Lanka drives on the left, same as Australia, which makes self-drive more accessible, but roads in highland areas can be narrow and winding. Keep your ETA approval email saved offline on your phone as airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable. The Sri Lankan Rupee is the local currency; USD is accepted in some tourist areas but the exchange rate is better at local banks or ATMs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Australians need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes. Australians must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. It costs USD 50, is valid for 30 days with double entry, and is applied for online at eta.gov.lk.
How do I apply for a Sri Lanka ETA?
Visit the official Sri Lanka ETA portal at eta.gov.lk. Complete the short online form with your passport details, select your visa category (tourist), pay USD 50 by card, and receive your approval by email, usually within 24 hours. Print or save the approval to present on arrival.
Can I extend my Sri Lanka ETA after arrival?
Yes. Extensions can be obtained from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo. Tourist visas can generally be extended for up to 6 months total, though each extension must be applied for before the current visa expires.
Is it safe to swim at Sri Lanka's beaches?
Many of Sri Lanka's beaches are beautiful but can have strong rip currents and limited lifeguard coverage. Always check conditions before entering the water, swim between the flags where they exist, and avoid swimming alone. The east coast and west coast have different optimal swimming seasons due to monsoon patterns.