Apply for Sri Lanka Digital Arrival Card Online
Sri Lanka has introduced a digital Arrival Card system for foreign visitors, allowing local authorities to pre-screen passengers and streamline the entry process.
This electronic immigration form replaces the traditional paper arrival documents and simplifies the procedure for those entering the country by air or sea.
Read on to learn more about the new digital Arrival Card for Sri Lanka, who needs it, and how to complete the online application.
Is an Arrival Card required for Sri Lanka?
Filling out an Arrival Card is a mandatory requirement for all foreign citizens arriving by air or sea, including permanent residents of Sri Lanka.
Only nationals of Sri Lanka are exempt - they are instead required to complete a Departure Card when leaving the country.
Please note that the digital Arrival Card is not a visa - depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a visa or ETA for Sri Lanka.
We advise you to carefully check the Sri Lanka visa requirements in advance of your trip to ensure you have all the correct documentation.
Passport requirements for the Arrival Card for Sri Lanka
To register for the Arrival Card online, you need to have a biometric passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival.
The passport you use to travel must be the same one you use to complete the Sri Lanka Arrival Card. Dual nationals should keep this in mind.
If your passport expires or the details change between applying and your trip, you’ll need to submit a new Arrival Card application.
For ease, you may want to make sure you also apply for the Sri Lanka ETA (if you need it) with the same passport.
Information needed to complete the online Sri Lanka arrival Card
You need to supply the following information to fill out the Arrival Card online:
- Flight number/ship name
- Date of arrival
- Passport number
- Nationality
- Full name
- Gender
- Date of birth
- Place of stay
- Purpose of visit
- Mode of arrival (air/sea)
- Purpose of visit
- Port of departure
- Port of arrival in Sri Lanka
Additionally, you need to supply a current email address to which confirmation of the Arrival Card approval will be sent.
Steps to complete the Arrival Card for Sri Lanka online
You can get your Arrival Card for Sri Lanka here on this site in 3 simple steps.
- Complete the simple form with your information
- Pay the processing fee using a valid debit or credit card
- Receive your Arrival Card confirmation via email
Do I need to print a Sri Lanka Arrival Card?
It’s not mandatory to print a copy of the Sri Lanka Arrival card confirmation.
Upon approval, the Sri Lanka Arrival Card is electronically linked to your passport, the one you used to fill out the online form.
Therefore, you simply need to present the same passport to immigration officials at your port of entry in Sri Lanka.
However, you may carry a printout if you wish for extra peace of mind.
When to apply for a Sri Lanka Arrival Card
The Sri Lankan government requires you to submit your digital Arrival Card registration within the 7 days before your arrival in the country.
However, you can apply at any point before your trip through this site, and we’ll ensure it’s processed at the correct time.
We recommend submitting the as soon as you make your travel arrangements for your trip, to give you the peace of mind that your documents are ready for your trip.
FAQs about the Arrival Card for Sri Lanka
Is the Sri Lanka Arrival Card multiple entry?
No, the Sri Lanka Arrival Card is valid for a single entry only. If you leave the country and wish to return, you’ll need to submit a new digital Arrival Card application.
How long can I stay in Sri Lanka with an Arrival Card?
The Sri Lanka Arrival Card does not guarantee a stay of any period of time.
The amount of time you can stay in the country depends on your nationality and the type of Sri Lankan visa, visa-exempt stay, or travel permit you have.
How long does it take to get a Sri Lanka Arrival Card?
The standard processing time for the Sri Lanka Arrival Card is within 3 business days. We recommend applying at least a few days before your intended arrival to ensure sufficient processing time.
Do I need to complete a Departure Card when exiting Sri Lanka?
Foreign nationals do not need to complete a Departure Card when exiting the country, this is only a requirement for Sri Lankan nationals.