Sri Lanka Visa RequirementsFor Spain passport holders
Sri Lanka requires Spanish citizens to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before or on arrival. The ETA costs USD 50 for a tourist single-entry visa valid for 30 days (extendable to 90 days in-country). Online pre-application is strongly recommended.
Spain passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Sri Lanka.
Apply online at eta.gov.lk before travel. Cost: USD 50 (tourist ETA). Processing: immediate to 2 days. 30-day single entry, extendable to 90 days at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. Alternatively, get the ETA on arrival (longer queues, same cost).
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
1 blank page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with 6 months validity, approved ETA, return ticket, proof of funds ($50/day).
Fines and deportation.
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid Spanish Passport
Passport with at least 6 months validity beyond arrival in Sri Lanka.
Required at Entry
ETA Approval Letter
Print or save the ETA confirmation from eta.gov.lk. Show to airline and immigration on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Return or Onward Ticket
Confirmed departure ticket from Sri Lanka. Required at immigration.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel booking for at least the first nights in Sri Lanka.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank cards or statements showing financial capacity. USD 50 per day guideline.
Current Travel Situation
Spain to Sri Lanka: What You Need to Know
Sri Lanka is a teardrop-shaped island off the southern tip of India, known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean." It has extraordinary biodiversity, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient Buddhist temples, colonial heritage, and some of the world finest beaches.
How to Get There
Sri Lanka is reached via connections through Dubai, Doha, Colombo (from London direct - Sri Lankan Airlines), or Singapore. A 2-week Sri Lanka circuit (Colombo-Cultural Triangle-Hill Country-South Coast) is the classic route. Tuk-tuks and trains are the iconic local transport.
Money & Banking
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Cards accepted at hotels and tourist restaurants. Cash needed for markets, tuk-tuks, and temples. ATMs in Colombo and tourist areas (Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank). The economic crisis of 2022 has largely stabilized.
Practical Tips
Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO), Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO), Kandy (Temple of the Tooth, UNESCO), Galle Fort (UNESCO), Yala National Park (leopards), and the southern beaches (Mirissa, Unawatuna, Arugam Bay) are top destinations. Best seasons: Dec-March (south/west), May-September (north/east).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Yes, apply for an ETA online ($50) or get visa on arrival. ETA is faster and recommended.
What is the Kandy to Ella train?
One of the world's most scenic train journeys through tea plantations, waterfalls, and hills. Book 2nd class reserved for best experience.
What should I see in Sri Lanka?
Sigiriya rock fortress, Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Yala leopards, Galle Fort, hill country tea estates, and beautiful beaches.
Is Sri Lanka recovered from the 2019 attacks?
Yes, tourism has recovered. Security has improved significantly. Tourist areas are safe with normal precautions.
What is the best beach area?
South coast (Mirissa, Unawatuna, Tangalle) for December-April. East coast (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee) for May-September.