India Visa RequirementsFor Sri Lanka passport holders
Sri Lankan passport holders can apply for an Indian e-visa online, allowing stays of up to 90 days. The fee is USD 25 and processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days.
Sri Lanka passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to India.
Apply through the Indian government e-visa portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in) at least 4 days before travel. Upload a passport photo and the bio-data page of your passport. The e-visa is linked electronically; print the approval letter to carry during travel. Double-entry e-tourist visas are available for USD 44.
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
Sri Lanka to India: What You Need to Know
India is the closest major destination for Sri Lankans, sharing strong cultural, religious, and historical ties. Colombo to Chennai, Mumbai, and Delhi are popular routes. Sri Lankans visit India for tourism, medical treatment, pilgrimages (Tirupati, Vaishno Devi), and family visits. The Tamil community in Sri Lanka has particularly strong connections to Tamil Nadu.
Practical Tips
The Indian High Commission in Colombo also issues sticker visas if you prefer. Avoid the peak pilgrimage seasons for popular temples unless you book accommodation well in advance. SriLankan Airlines, IndiGo, and Air India operate direct flights from Colombo to multiple Indian cities. Keep a copy of your e-visa approval email accessible offline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Sri Lankan citizens need a visa to visit India?
Yes. Sri Lankan citizens require a visa to enter India. The most convenient option is the Indian e-visa, which can be applied for online through the official portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in). The e-tourist visa costs USD 25 for a single entry and USD 44 for double entry, with stays of up to 90 days.
How do Sri Lankans apply for an Indian e-visa?
Visit indianvisaonline.gov.in and complete the online application at least 4 business days before your travel date. Upload a recent passport-size photo and a scan of your passport bio-data page. Pay the fee online and receive the e-visa approval by email, usually within 3 to 5 business days. Print the approval and carry it during travel.
Can Sri Lankans apply for an Indian visa at the embassy in Colombo?
Yes. The Indian High Commission in Colombo issues regular sticker visas for Sri Lankans who prefer an embassy-processed visa. This may be preferable for long-stay or multiple-entry requirements beyond what the e-visa offers.
What is the best way to travel from Sri Lanka to India?
SriLankan Airlines, IndiGo, and Air India operate direct flights from Colombo (CMB) to Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kochi. Travel times range from 1.5 hours to Chennai to about 4 hours to Delhi. There is also a ferry service between Talaimannar (Sri Lanka) and Rameswaram (India), though this operates intermittently.