Dreaming of palm-fringed beaches, ancient ruins, and rich cultural experiences? Sri Lanka is a tropical gem, and the good news is—it’s incredibly accessible for Nepalese travelers. Whether you're a Nepalese citizen planning a beach getaway or a foreign national residing in Nepal with business in Colombo, the Sri Lanka visa process is simple and smooth.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the Sri Lanka visa for Nepalese, including types of visas, required documents, how to apply, visa fees, and more.
Why Visit Sri Lanka? (And How Easy It Is to Get a Visa!)
From the misty tea highlands of Nuwara Eliya to the stunning golden sands of Mirissa, Sri Lanka packs a punch for every kind of traveler. And guess what? Getting a Sri Lanka tourist visa from Nepal is easier than ever.
Whether you’re a:
- Nepalese citizen, or
- Foreign national living in Nepal,
You can apply online for a Sri Lanka e-Visa/ETA or get a visa on arrival at the airport.
Understanding visa requirements helps avoid travel hiccups. Let’s dive in!
Sri Lanka Visa Requirements for Nepalese Citizens
To apply for your Sri Lanka tourist visa from Nepal, make sure you have the following:
- Passport – Valid for at least 6 months from the entry date.
- Scanned passport bio page
- Recent passport-sized photo (MRP size)
- Proof of return/onward travel (e.g., flight itinerary)
- Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statement)
- Accommodation details (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
Note: Nepal is a SAARC country, but visa-free access is not automatic. You still need to apply for a Sri Lanka ETA.
Good News! From October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, Nepalese citizens can enjoy a free 30-day tourist visa!
Types of Sri Lanka Visas for Nepalese Citizens
Visa Type Validity Entries Purpose
Tourist ETA 6 months Double Tourism, visiting friends/family
Business ETA 30 days Multiple Meetings, conferences, trade
Transit ETA 48 hours Single Connecting flights (no airport exit)
Other Visas Varies Varies Work, diplomatic, religious (See official site)
How to Apply for a Sri Lanka Visa from Nepal
Step-by-step ETA Application (Online)
Visit the official ETA website
Fill in personal and travel details
Upload:
- Paspport scan
- Passport photo
Pay the visa fee online (Visa/Master/Amex)
Receive your ETA via email (24–72 hours)
Print and carry it when flying to Sri Lanka
Visa on Arrival is also available at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), but applying online is highly recommended to skip the queues.
For foreign nationals in Nepal: Apply via the same ETA portal or contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Kathmandu. Make sure your passport meets Sri Lanka’s requirements.
Sri Lanka Visa Cost for Nepalese & Processing Time
Visa Type Cost Notes
Tourist ETA Free Until March 31, 2025
Tourist ETA ~$50 USD After the free period
Business ETA ~$75+ USD Varies by purpose
Transit ETA Free Under 48 hours
Processing Time
- Normal: 3 working days
- Urgent: 24 hours
- Super Urgent: Same day (with extra charges)
Accepted Payment Methods: Visa, MasterCard, American Express
How to Extend Your Sri Lanka Visa
Planning a longer stay in paradise? You can extend up to 6 months for tourist visas. Here’s how to do it:
Extension Process
Apply in person at the Department of Immigration in Colombo
Do it before your 30-day visa expires
Requirements
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds
- Valid reason for extension
Can I extend my Sri Lanka visa from Nepal?
Not directly—you must already be in Sri Lanka to apply for an extension.
Travel Tips for Nepalese Visiting Sri Lanka
✔️ Best Time to Visit: December to April = Dry season = Best weather!
✔️ Safety Tips:
- Avoid large public gatherings and protests
- Carry a copy of your passport and ETA
✔️ Customs Rules:
- Declare valuables like jewelry and electronics
- You can bring personal items worth up to USD 250
✔️ Connectivity: Buy a local Sri Lanka SIM card for fast 4G internet
FAQs: Sri Lanka Visa for Nepalese
Q: Can Nepalese citizens get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?
A: Yes, but applying online is faster and more convenient.
Q: How long does it take to process a Sri Lanka e-Visa?
A: Typically 1–3 working days.
Q: Is the free visa available for business trips?
A: No, it’s only for tourism.
Q: Can foreigners in Nepal apply online?
A: Yes, through eta.gov.lk.
Q: What if I overstay my visa?
A: Fines or even deportation may apply. Always extend before expiry.
Conclusion
The Sri Lanka visa for Nepalese is easy to get, especially with the current free visa policy for tourists. Whether you're going for relaxation, adventure, or business—Sri Lanka is ready to welcome you.
Apply early at the official ETA portal, and you’ll be one step closer to sipping tea in the hills of Ella or spotting elephants in Yala National Park.
