By maneeshaabeysuriya@gmail.com 
After being replaced by the electronic visa in April and subsequently suspended on August 2, Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) application portal is now reactivated and fully operational.
Sri Lanka Restores ETA System After Visa Management Crisis
Sri Lanka has recently faced challenges, particularly with visa management, following a controversial agreement between the previous government and a private consortium to replace the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) with an e-Visa system.
This e-Visa system, launched without a public tender, was suspended on August 2 after multiple petitions claimed irregularities in the process and negative financial consequences for the country. The new system (www.srilankaevisa.lk) introduced higher fees—up to $18.50 per application—compared to the previous ETA system run by the state-owned SLTMobitel, which charged only $2 per application.
The increased fees and system issues caused unrest, particularly among local tourism operators who feared the impact on the tourism industry, a vital part of Sri Lanka’s economy. In response, the Supreme Court ordered a temporary reinstatement of the former ETA system, pending further judgment.
ETA System is Finally Active Again
For months, travelers had to obtain visas on arrival, causing delays and inconveniences. However, after the election of President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, Sri Lanka has officially reactivated the ETA portal.
“The government has reinstated the previous visa system, effective from midnight today,” the president announced via X (formerly Twitter).
Despite recent instability, tourists and business travelers can now apply for their ETA at the government’s website (eta.gov.lk). Visa experts at VisasNews confirm that the system is live and functioning, with successfully approved ETAs reported.
The cost for a tourist ETA is US$50 (excluding bank fees), and once approved, the ETA remains valid for 6 months, allowing a 30-day stay with two entries. Additionally, travelers must complete an online Arrival Card on the eservices.immigration.gov.lk portal within seven days of their trip.
By restoring the ETA system, Sri Lanka aims to simplify the visa application process, ensuring transparency and reliability for international travelers. The ETA portal, trusted for its ease and efficiency, eliminates the need for external service providers, offering a streamlined online visa application experience.
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