Current DossierSubject · Canadian passportFile · SRI-LANKA

Does Sri Lanka require a visa for Canadian citizens?

Straight answer, official source, and how long it takes.

Last checked 22 Jul 2026Source · Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri LankaHow we source this →
Visa Panic answer
eVisa requiredLow panic

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Sri Lanka?

Yes, Canadian citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short-term tourism or business trips to Sri Lanka.

Apply on the official siteDepartment of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka — last checked 22 July 2026
Always confirm with the official source before you travel.
Your panic level

When are you travelling?

Add your travel date and we'll tell you exactly how much to panic, based on typical processing times.

eVisa typically takes around a week.

Health FileSubject · Sri LankaChecked · 22 Jul 2026

Vaccinations for Sri Lanka

Book a travel clinic appointment 6–8 weeks before you fly.

Conditional

Only if arriving from a risk area

Required only if you're travelling from — or transiting through — a country with active transmission.

  • Yellow Fever

    Certificate required if arriving from (or transiting) a country with yellow fever transmission risk.

Recommended on health grounds

Not required for entry — advised by NHS / CDC for most travellers.

  • Hepatitis A

    Recommended — food & water borne.

  • Typhoid

    Recommended, especially for longer stays or rural travel.

  • Japanese Encephalitis

    Consider for rural stays, especially in monsoon season.

  • Rabies

    Consider for rural travel, cyclists, and long trips.

→ Read the Yellow Fever briefing

Which countries require the certificate, timing, cost, and the 10-day validity rule.

Not medical advice. Always confirm with your GP, travel nurse, or a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre — requirements change and can vary based on where you're arriving from.

Colour KeyCalm— no visaMedium— ETA / eVisaPanic— full visa

Deep breath. Here's the answer.

Canadian citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before travelling to Sri Lanka for tourism or business purposes. This ETA allows for stays of up to 30 days, which can be extended.

Key facts

For Canadian passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

PassportCanadian passport
PurposeTourism / short business trip
Visa requiredYes — eVisa
Maximum stay30 days (extendable)
Passport validityAt least six months beyond the date of intended departure from Sri Lanka
Return/onward ticketYes, or proof of onward travel
Arrival formNot typically required in advance, but may be provided on arrival
Last checked22 July 2026

You may need a visa if…

  • The ETA is typically issued for 30 days initially, but can be extended for up to 90 days from the date of arrival at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.
  • Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for stamps.
  • Overstaying your ETA can result in fines and deportation.
  • The ETA is for short-term visits; different procedures apply for longer stays or other purposes (e.g., work, study).
  • Visa requirements can change, so always verify close to your travel date.
  • Health requirements (e.g., vaccinations) might be necessary depending on your travel history.

Before you travel

  • Apply for your Sri Lanka ETA online at the official ETA website.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
  • Confirm you have a return or onward ticket.
  • Check for any current travel advisories from the Government of Canada.
  • Secure comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Have proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Common questions

Yes, Canadian citizens need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travelling to Sri Lanka for tourism or short business trips.

Related destinations

Field Report Provenance

Human-checked

Every dossier is written from official government sources, then re-checked on 22 Jul 2026.

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Not legal advice

Always cross-check with the linked official source before you book. Read our methodology and disclaimer.