Visas for Sri Lanka and Nepal: Comprehensive Guide

☝️ The most important information at a glance

• Online ETA for Sri Lanka: Easy online application and payment.
• Visa on arrival: Available in Sri Lanka and Nepal, payment usually in cash.
• Longer stays in Sri Lanka: Option to extend or obtain a visa for up to 90 days via the embassy.
• Nepal visa online: Apply online, pay on arrival.
• Entry requirements: Valid passport, completed form, flight documents, itinerary, entry card for Sri Lanka.

Tourist visa for short stays (up to 30 days)

Online ETA system

For most travelers, the online ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system is the most convenient method of applying for a visa. Visit the official website (http://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/) to submit your application. Payment is made securely by credit card. You will be asked to enter personal details and travel information. A successful application will be marked with a confirmation number, which should be presented upon arrival at Colombo International Airport.

Visa on arrival

You also have the option of applying for your visa directly upon arrival at Colombo International Airport. This service costs USD 60. Please note that payment must be made in cash and change will be given in Sri Lankan rupees. For travelers with a temporary passport, online application via the ETA system is mandatory, as visas will not be issued at the airport.

Tourist visa for longer stays (up to 90 days)

If you are planning a longer stay of more than 30 days, you can enter the country on a short-term tourist visa and have it extended in Sri Lanka. The embassy in Berlin can issue you a visa for a stay of up to 90 days upon request. There are two options for applying: in person or by mail. It is recommended that you contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Sri Lanka early on to simplify the extension process.

Entry requirements for Sri Lanka

There are a few requirements you must meet in order to enter Sri Lanka. These include a properly completed visa application form, a valid passport with at least one free page, copies of flight bookings, a detailed itinerary, proof of payment, and a completed arrival card (Arrival e-Card), which is available online or in paper form.

Online application before departure

You should apply for your Nepal visa online at least 14 days before your arrival. The relevant form can be found on the website of the immigration authorities (http://www.online.nepalimmigration.gov.np/tourist-visa). In addition to your personal information, you will need to upload a recent passport photo. The printed application must be presented upon entry. Visa fees are graded according to the length of stay and are paid directly at the airport.

Visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan Airport, Kathmandu

Visas can be issued upon arrival at Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu. To do so, you will need a passport photo and your passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months. The fees are the same as for online applications and should be paid in USD or EUR, preferably in exact change. Machines in the arrivals hall facilitate the process, but you will then have to go to the counter for the final visa to be issued.

Advance application at the embassy

A classic option is to apply for a visa at the Nepalese embassy in Berlin or one of the honorary consulates. Make sure that your passport is valid beyond the end of your trip. In addition to the completed application form, the visa fees must be paid by bank transfer or in cash when you pick up your visa in person.