Do I Need a Visa or ETA for Sri Lanka?
Check your passport. Since 25 May 2026, nationals of 40 listed countries can obtain a free 30-day tourist ETA — but the ETA must still be obtained before arrival.
SHORT ANSWER
Check your passport. Since 25 May 2026, nationals of 40 listed countries can obtain a free 30-day tourist ETA — but the ETA must still be obtained before arrival.
CURRENT RULE FOR 40 COUNTRIES
Free ETA does not mean “no paperwork”
Sri Lanka Immigration says nationals of 40 listed countries — including Poland, Italy, Germany, France, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, India and others — are eligible for a tourist ETA free of charge for 30 days. The same notice says these travellers are still required to obtain the ETA before arrival.
HOW LONG
30 days, with double entry under the current scheme
The current free-ETA scheme gives eligible travellers a 30-day tourist visa with double-entry permission counted from the first arrival. Extensions are possible under the immigration rules, normally for a fee.
CHECK BEFORE YOU FLY
Do not rely on an old blog post
Visa policy has changed several times recently. Check the Department of Immigration and Emigration immediately before travel and use the official ETA channel linked from the government website.
SOURCES
Where we checked this
FAQ
Quick questions
Is Sri Lanka visa-free?
For some passports the tourist ETA is currently free of charge, but the official 2026 notice still requires eligible travellers to obtain ETA before arrival.
Is Poland included in the free ETA scheme?
Yes. Poland is on the official list of 40 countries eligible for a free 30-day tourist ETA from 25 May 2026.
Can I just get on the plane without ETA?
Do not assume so. The official notice says eligible travellers are required to obtain ETA prior to arrival.