Sri Lanka has reversed its recent decision to make the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mandatory for all short-stay international visitors. This suspension simplifies travel for tourists, including those from India, by eliminating an extra step in the trip planning process.

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Key Takeaways for Travelers

• ETA Not Mandatory: The rule, which was set to take effect on October 15, 2025, has been revoked until further notice.
• Existing Procedures Apply: All ETA and visa services will continue to operate under the procedures that were in place before October 15, 2025. Travelers can still apply for visas or use existing ETA channels.
• Simplification for Indians: For Indian travelers, the reversal removes a mandatory requirement, streamlining the process of visiting the island nation.

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Promoting Indian Tourism

This move underscores Sri Lanka’s efforts to maintain and strengthen travel links with India, which is a crucial source market for its tourism sector.

• Significant Visitor Share: Indian tourists accounted for a substantial portion—over 31%—of total visitors in a recent month, with around 4.16 lakh Indian tourists visiting the country in 2024.
• Ambitious Targets: Sri Lanka’s tourism authorities have set a goal to welcome 5 lakh tourists from India in 2025.
• Wider Appeal: Officials are actively promoting new areas beyond traditional spots like Colombo and Bentota, including the central highlands and sites related to the Ramayana Trails. They are also targeting high-yield travel segments such as destination weddings and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism to increase revenue per visitor.

Travelers are advised to monitor official channels from the Sri Lankan High Commission in India or other authorities for any future updates on visa policy.