Reasons for Sri Lanka ETA application rejection
Foreigners from most countries can travel to Sri Lanka with an Electronic Travel Authorization.
The online application is fast and efficient. Visitors only need to fill out a short online form with basic personal details and travel information.
Although uncommon, like all visa applications, the Sri Lanka ETA can be denied.
To help applicants avoid rejection, this page explains why a Sri Lanka ETA application could be unsuccessful and what to do if this happens.
Can a Sri Lanka ETA be rejected?
Most Sri Lanka ETA applications are successful. The majority of travellers who apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization for Sri Lanka receive the approved permit within 48 hours.
However, it is possible for an ETA application to be rejected. In rare cases, a traveller may not be granted an electronic travel authorization by Sri Lanka authorities.
Why would an ETA for Sri Lanka be denied?
There are several reasons why a Sri Lanka ETA could be denied, most of which can be easily avoided.
On the rare occasion that a Sri Lanka ETA is rejected, it is often a result of mistakes on the application form. Some of the most common reasons for denial and how to avoid them are provided below.
Reasons why a Sri Lanka ETA may be denied
The reasons why a Sri Lanka ETA could be rejected can be divided into 3 groups:
Mistakes on the application form
Travellers need to fill out the Sri Lanka ETA application form carefully. All the data entered must match the individual’s passport exactly, incorrect or missing information could cause rejection.
Particular attention should be paid to the passport number. Travellers should double-check they have copied the number correctly.
All names should be written as they appear on the passport. Differences in spelling could also cause issues.
Before submitting the request, ETA applicants should double-check all the information they have provided.
Passport not valid for the ETA
Applicants need to hold a passport from a country eligible for the ETA. The passport expiry date needs to be provided on the application form, it must be valid for at least 180 days beyond the date of arrival.
If the passport used to apply is not from an eligible country or does not meet the validity requirements, the ETA will not be granted.
Other eligibility requirements
Sri Lanka ETA applicants need to meet security requirements. Travellers will not be granted a travel authorization if they are considered a risk to public safety.
In addition, foreigners must apply for the correct ETA for their purpose of visit. Different ETAs for Sri Lanka are issued for tourism, business, or transit. The application will be rejected if the purpose of the visit does not correspond with the travel authorization requested.
Anyone who already holds a Sri Lankan residence permit or multiple-entry visa cannot apply for an ETA until their visa expires. The ETA request will be denied if the applicant already holds a valid visa for Sri Lanka.
What happens if the Sri Lanka eTA is denied?
The traveller will be notified by email if their application is refused. Applicants may be asked to correct errors or provide further information.
Can I apply again if the Sri Lanka ETA application is denied?
Travellers can reapply for the Sri Lanka ETA if they made a mistake on their original application. In this case, they can correct the errors and submit the request again.
However, if the application was denied because the passport is not valid (for example country or expiry date), a new application cannot be made using the same travel document.
Similarly, it is not possible to reapply if the traveller does not meet any of the other eligibility criteria or already holds a valid visa for Sri Lanka.
If I have a Sri Lanka eTA, can I still be denied entry?
Foreigners need to present their approved ETA to border officials on arrival in Sri Lanka. Most ETA holders do not face any issues when entering the country.
However, like all visas, the Sri Lanka ETA does not guarantee entry. Border authorities make the final decision on whether to grant access to Sri Lanka.
Travellers also need to present:
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Yellow fever vaccination certificates from certain countries
Failure to present these documents, together with the valid visa and ETA, could result in entry being denied.
Visitors must check all the latest travel restrictions and entry requirements before travelling to Sri Lanka.