All foreign visitors to Sri Lanka must follow the country’s entry requirements. This includes having a relevant travel permit, such as a visa or travel authorisation.
German passport holders are eligible for the Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The ETA is a completely online service which gives travellers quick and easy access into Sri Lanka.
The following page explains the Sri Lanka ETA requirements for German citizens, and how to apply for the travel authorisation before their trip.
Do Germans need a visa for Sri Lanka?
All German visitors to Sri Lanka must have either a Sri Lanka ETA or a visa. Without one of these documents, Germans do not have permission to enter Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lanka ETA is the easiest option for travellers, as it avoids the need to apply for a visa at an embassy or on arrival. German passport holders can choose from 3 different ETA categories, depending on their travel plans:
- Sri Lanka ETA for tourism
- Sri Lanka ETA for business
- Sri Lanka ETA for transit
Sri Lanka ETA for tourism
The tourist ETA is valid for 180 days from the date it is issued. Within those 180 days, it grants the holder a stay of up to 30 days in Sri Lanka from the date of arrival.
The tourist ETA also allows for 2 entries into Sri Lanka, provided the second entry comes within the 30-day allocated time period.
Sri Lanka ETA for business
The business ETA is valid for 180 days from the date it is issued. The business ETA allows holders to stay for visits of up to 30 days at a time.
The business ETA allows for multiple entries into Sri Lanka, however all entries must be within 30 days of the original date of arrival.
Sri Lanka ETA for transit
The transit ETA is valid for up to 180 days from the date it is issued. The transit ETA does not allow the holder to leave the airport at any time. It is strictly for travellers who are using Sri Lanka as a point of connection for onward travel.
The transit ETA is only valid for 2 days, meaning all travellers must remain in the airport for no more than 48 hours.
How can I get Sri Lanka visa from Germany?
German nationals can get a Sri Lankan ETA online in 3 simple steps:
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the processing fee and submit the form
- Receive the approved Sri Lankan ETA by email
What documents are required for Germans to obtain the Sri Lanka ETA?
German passport holders who wish to apply for a Sri Lanka travel authorisation must meet the ETA requirements. All applicants need to have the following items prepared:
- Valid German passport
- Debit or credit card
- Email address
The payment card is used to pay the visa processing fee securely online, while the email address is where all correspondence is sent, including the approved Sri Lanka travel authorisation.
Sri Lankan ETA application for German passport holders
The Sri Lankan ETA application form is quick and easy to complete. Applicants just need to provide some basic information, including:
- Personal details (name, address, date of birth, nationality, etc.)
- Passport details (number, issue date, expiry date)
- Travel plans (date of arrival, accommodation, etc.)
Sri Lanka ETA applicants must ensure that the information provided is accurate and true. Any mistakes or false information can lead to delays, or even a rejected ETA application.
Travelling to Sri Lanka with an ETA
German passengers with a Sri Lankan ETA should print a copy of their approved ETA before departure. The travel authorisation must be presented at check-in and upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
At immigration, the ETA holder is then granted a Sri Lankan visa on arrival.
Those travelling during the coronavirus pandemic should check the latest updates to ensure they follow any additional Sri Lanka COVID-19 entry requirements.
Can German Passport holders get a Sri Lanka visa on arrival?
There is no visa on arrival service for German citizens arriving in Sri Lanka. The only way to gain entry into the country with a German passport is by obtaining a Sri Lanka ETA or visa before travelling.
The Sri Lanka ETA is the easiest travel permit to request, as it is completely online. Applying for a Sri Lankan visa involves going in person to an embassy or consulate.