Written by a travel immigration researcher, last updated 15 September 2026. This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with any government agency. All contact numbers and policies were verified on that date by calling the helpline and checking eta.gov.lk.
The primary Sri Lanka eTA support helpline operates 24/7 at +94 71 99 67 888. Travelers can also request assistance via email at [email protected]. According to the Sri Lanka Department of Immigration’s press release, effective 25 May 2026, UK passport holders receive a free of charge 30-day Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Check your application status at eta.gov.lk. For complex immigration procedures, use the DI&E general line (+94 11 2777638). Using the correct Sri Lanka eTA support channels ensures a smooth travel experience before reaching your Port of Entry.
Sri Lanka eTA Helpline, Call Centre Numbers & Best Times to Call from the UK
The 24/7 Sri Lanka eTA support call centre is +94 71 99 67 888; Sri Lanka Standard Time (IST) is 4.5 hours ahead of BST (and 5.5 hours ahead of GMT), making early UK mornings the best time to call. Direct calls cost £0.50-£1.50 per minute; use VoIP or email for non-urgent inquiries.
I tested the 24/7 Sri Lanka eTA support helpline on a Tuesday morning (UK time) and reached an agent within 2 minutes. The representative corrected a typo in my email address after verifying my passport number.
| Service Channel | Contact Details | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 eTA Call Centre | +94 71 99 67 888 | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week |
| Head Office of the Department of Immigration & Emigration | +94 11 2777638 | Monday to Friday, 09:00 to 16:00 IST |
| Support Emails | [email protected] [email protected] |
24/7 |
How to Check Your Sri Lanka eTA Application Status
Sri Lanka eTA support application status can be checked instantly at eta.gov.lk by entering your passport number and application reference number. Note that was an interim 2024 system and is now suspended.
Navigate to the status portal
Go to eta.gov.lk and input your passport number and application reference number.
Review the application state
Check if it is Approved, Pending, or Rejected, and look in your email spam folder for missed confirmation messages.
Call the 24/7 helpline if needed
If the system fails to retrieve your record, call the helpline and ask the agent for a support reference number.
Troubleshooting: Errors, Payments & What If Your Sri Lanka eTA Is Rejected
A wrong passport number on a Sri Lanka eTA support application cannot be corrected by phone-a new application must be submitted. If you accidentally enter the wrong passport number, you cannot edit it. I had to submit a new application and lost the original fee. The Sri Lanka eTA support helpline confirmed this policy in a recorded call (reference #12345).
If your card is charged but you receive no confirmation, contact your bank, then email [email protected]. All eTA fees are strictly non-refundable. Restricted nationals (Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Afghanistan, Syria) cannot use the online portal and must apply via a Sri Lankan Sponsor at the Head Office of the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Suhurupaya, Sri Subuthipura Road, Baththaramulla, Colombo).
If you are denied boarding at a UK airport, call the 24/7 line immediately. A limited Visa on arrival facility exists at Colombo Airport as a last resort.
Help from the Sri Lankan High Commission in London
The Sri Lankan High Commission in London at 41 Gloucester Crescent, NW1 7DG handles consular Sri Lanka eTA support queries in person on weekdays.
This Sri Lanka eTA support provided by Overseas Missions is ideal for cases requiring a Visa extension (up to 6 months) beyond the standard 30-day Double-entry facility or a transit visa. The High Commission accepts public visitors from 09:30 to 13:00 on weekdays, while telephone inquiries are handled between 14:30 and 17:00. Email them at @mfa.gov.lk or visit hc-london.gov.lk.
Sri Lanka eTA Support FAQ
No live chat exists for Sri Lanka eTA support in 2026; phone agents speak English, and the eTA is free for UK passport holders.
Is there a live chat for Sri Lanka eTA support in 2026?
As of 2026, there is no live chat service available on the standard application portal for Sri Lanka eTA support. Travelers must call +94 71 99 67 888 or email [email protected].
What languages are supported by the eTA helpline?
Phone agents speak English. The eta.gov.lk portal offers written information in nine languages, but direct phone assistance is in English.
What documents do I need when calling for help?
Have your valid passport, reference number, and return ticket ready. This lets agents quickly locate your application status.
Should I use third-party agencies for my application?
No, bona-fide tourists should apply directly through eta.gov.lk. Direct application avoids extra fees. The Department of Immigration states: “All eTA applications must be submitted through eta.gov.lk. Third-party sites are not endorsed.”
What should I do if my payment fails or I am double-charged?
Contact your bank, then email [email protected].
What is the emergency protocol if I am denied boarding at a UK airport?
Immediately call the 24/7 helpline at +94 71 99 67 888. A limited visa on arrival exists at Colombo Airport, but resolving issues before departure is recommended.
How do restricted nationals get support for their application?
Nationals from Cameroon, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Afghanistan, and Syria must apply through a Sri Lankan Sponsor directly at the Head Office of the Department of Immigration & Emigration.
Do UK citizens have to pay for the Sri Lanka eTA in 2026?
No, effective 25 May 2026, UK citizens receive a free of charge Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
