Sri Lanka may not be as famous as its neighbors India or Maldives, but this island has its charm. They have multiple climates, diverse wildlife, picturesque landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and fascinating history. You can almost do anything in Sri Lanka! Plus, you only need to get an ETA to enter Sri Lanka (for free!).

Filipinos can enter Sri Lanka if they have an ETA or an Electronic Travel Authorization. You can get it before your flight, online, or upon arrival. But, I suggest doing it in the comfort of your home rather than at the airport. It’s pretty easy, follow this guide and you will know how!

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Here is the guide on how to get a Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for Philippine Passport Holders:

Sri Lanka ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for Filipinos

Validity: 30 days

Number of Entries: Double Entry

Where to Apply: Online or upon your Arrival(it’s better to do it online as there may be long queues to get this when you arrive at the port of entry)

Processing Time: Mostly less than an hour, but can be within for 24 hours

Office in Charge: Department of Immigration and Emigration
Address: Suhurupaya, Sri Subuthipura Road, Baththaramulla
E-mail: controller@immigration.gov.lk

Documents Required for Sri Lanka ETA

1. Passport – valid for at least 6 months

2. Visa Fee – USD 35 / USD 40 on arrival, but, currently the visa fee is waived for Philippine Passport Holders

ETA Fee Waiver Program

The following nationals are exempted in paying the ETA Fee for tourism purposes (this is up to April 30, 2020)

Step-by-Step Guide on getting a Sri Lanka ETA Online

Getting a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka is relatively easy and can be done in 5 easy steps.

STEP 1: Go to this website, no need to scan a copy of your passport.

1. Choose “by the applicant” unless you are not applying for yourself.

2. You will be redirected to a paragraph below. Click “Apply.”

3. Read the terms and choose “I agree.”

4. Choose which will suit you.

STEP 2: Application

1. Enter your Information needed. Click “Next” if you are done.

2. Review your application. Click “Confirm.”

STEP 3: Pay the visa fee; however, since the visa fee is waived, you may proceed to the next step.

STEP 4: You will then get an acknowledgment of your application.

STEP 5: Wait for the ETA Approval Notice to be sent to you. You need to print this out and show this at the immigration, along with your passport.

Requirements needed to Enter Sri Lanka

Valid Passport – not less than 6 months from arrival date
ETA Approval Notice
Confirmed Return Ticket
Sufficient Funds for expenses during your stay

Sri Lanka Visa Extension

If you think 30 days is not enough to tour Sri Lanka, then you may apply for a visa extension.

Office: Department of Immigration Emigration (Head Office)

Address: "Suhurupaya", Sri Subhuthipura Road, Battaramulla. Sri Lank

Telephone Number: +254-20-2222022

Requirements:

1. Return ticket

2. Address and telephone number of accommodation – hotel voucher and bills

3. Application Form

4. Photo of the Applicant

5. Visa Extension Fee

FAQS in Applying for Sri Lanka ETA

1. How much is the Sri Lanka visa fees?

The visa fee is only USD 35 online, but as of writing, the visa fee is waived for Philippine Passport Holders.

2. Which method would be recommended?

The Immigration office recommends getting an ETA online a day before your flight because the queue might be long upon your arrival.

3. Where can I get a Sri Lanka ETA?

You can get it online on their website. Please see the instructions above.

4. Can I get a Visa On Arrival?

Yes, but you need to process an ETA First.

5. How long is the Sri Lanka ETA processing time?

It will usually less than an hour or within the day.

6. How many days before my departure, should I process my Sri Lanka ETA?

You can 3 days before your departure in case there are some issues with your application.

7. What do I need to bring to the immigration officer in Sri Lanka?

Present your valid Passport, ETA Approval Notice, Confirmed Return Ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to the immigration officer.

FAQS about Sri Lanka

1. What is the language in Sri Lanka?

Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka. Sri Lankans can also speak English and mostly spoken in Colombo, the capital, and touristy areas.

2. What is the currency in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) is used in Sri Lanka. 180 LKR is about 1 USD, while 1 PHP is about 3.50 LKR.

3. When to visit Sri Lanka?

If you want to go to the West and South Coast, you can visit from December to March. As for the East Coast, it is recommended to visit from April to September.

4. Is Sri Lanka Expensive?

Sri Lanka can be affordable, but not as cheap as India. You can travel to this place on a budget!

5. Is Sri Lanka safe?

Sri Lanka is safe for travel. However, thebe vigilant when you travel as there may be petty thefts, scams, and muggings. I encourage all travelers to get travel insurance.

6. How to get to Sri Lanka?

There are no direct flights from the Philippines to Sri Lanka; you might stop at countries like Malaysia, Singapore, or Hong Kong.

Sri Lanka is a diverse country with National Parks with rescued Elephants and Other Animals, sleepy villages, and historic temples. You will surely be in awe of what Sri Lanka offers, plus you only need to get an ETA. If you are staying there, here’s our recommended list of Hotels in Sri Lanka. I hope you enjoy this island and have a blast!