There’s good news for Indian travellers planning a Sri Lankan getaway.
The island nation has put a pause on its new mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rule, which was supposed to take effect from October 15, 2025. The move comes as a huge relief for Indian tourists — and the travel industry at large — as it keeps the process simple, just like before.
Under the new rule, visitors were expected to apply for an ETA before boarding their flight. But after hearing feedback from travellers and tourism operators, Sri Lanka’s Immigration Department decided to hold off. For now, Indians can continue to apply online for an ETA or simply get one on arrival at the airport — no extra paperwork, no confusion.
The decision couldn’t have come at a better time. India is Sri Lanka’s biggest tourism market, accounting for over 30% of total arrivals, and with the holiday season approaching, this move will make travel smoother for thousands planning beach escapes, wellness retreats, and cultural holidays.
Tourism experts say it’s a smart, traveller-first decision that will help keep Sri Lanka’s tourism revival on track. For now, it’s back to easy breezy island travel — just how we like it.
