Last verified: 15 September 2026. Sources: Sri Lanka ETA portal (eta.gov.lk), Department of Immigration & Emigration notice No. 23/2026, UK FCDO travel advice for Sri Lanka.
“During my recent transit through Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in January 2026, I stayed airside at the transit hotel and did not need an ETA – but when my onward flight was rebooked to the next day, the airline advised me to apply for the free transit ETA before clearing immigration.”
Meeting the Sri Lanka eTA transit requirements in 2026 dictates that the transit authorization is free of charge and valid for up to 2 days (48 hours). Passengers remaining airside with a confirmed connecting flight within 24 hours do not need any ETA. UK passport holders must apply online prior to arrival if they intend to leave the transit lounge, clear immigration at the port of entry, or if their layover exceeds the 24-hour airside exemption. Since the introduction of the new visa scheme on 25 May 2026, UK citizens planning longer stays should consider the 30-day tourist ETA instead. Having the correct documentary proof ensures a smooth journey through the Department of Immigration and Emigration checkpoints.
What Is a Sri Lanka Transit ETA and Do You Need One?
In 2026, the Sri Lanka Transit eTA is a free authorization valid for up to 48 hours, required only if you leave the airport or your layover exceeds 24 hours. Managed by the Department of Immigration & Emigration through eta.gov.lk, the Sri Lanka Transit eTA dictates whether connecting passengers must secure prior approval or can remain exempt.
Decision Logic Rules
- Layover under 24 hours (staying airside): No ETA required. Passengers must remain inside the international transit lounge.
- Layover between 24 and 48 hours (or leaving terminal): Free Transit ETA mandatory.
- Separate Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) tickets: Free Transit ETA mandatory. Passengers without interline baggage agreements must clear immigration to collect and re-check luggage.
How to Apply for a Transit ETA & Airport Rules
The Sri Lanka transit ETA qualifies all non-exempt foreign nationals for a layover, provided they apply online before arrival using a passport valid for at least 6 months and a confirmed onward ticket.
Visit the application portal
Go to eta.gov.lk to submit your personal details.
Provide documentary proof
Include your confirmed connecting flight itinerary.
Complete the submission
The Sri Lanka transit ETA costs nothing.
The 2026 Sri Lanka transit ETA requires passengers flying on low-cost carriers with separate tickets to clear immigration and re-check baggage. Travellers using the Serenediva Colombo Transit hotel airside bypass this step, but landside access mandates the authorization. Citizens of specific nations, including Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Syria, must secure a Sri Lankan sponsor before applying.
What to Expect at the Airport
Follow ‘Transfers’ signs
After landing at CMB, head airside.
Go to Immigration (LCC tickets)
Bring your printed ETA confirmation.
Biometric check
Expect a biometric check at the transit desk.
Keep your boarding pass visible
Officers may ask for your onward flight boarding pass.
For application support, contact the ETA 24/7 Call Centre at 0094 71 99 67 888 or visit the Department of Immigration & Emigration head office at “Suhurupaya”, Sri Subhuthipura Road, Battaramulla, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Transit ETA vs. Tourist ETA for UK Nationals
The Sri Lanka Transit eTA covers 2 days (48 hours), but UK passport holders eligible for the free 30-day tourist ETA since 25 May 2026 should choose the tourist option for longer layovers. Strategically, if your layover exceeds 48 hours or you plan to leave the airport multiple times, the tourist ETA is the better choice as it permits a double entry for extended exploration. While the Sri Lanka transit ETA restricts travellers to a brief stopover, both require you to present documentary proof at the port of entry.
| Feature | Sri Lanka Transit eTA | Tourist ETA (UK Nationals) | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Validity period | Up to 02 days (48 hours) | 30 days | Immigration Regulations 2026 |
| Fee | Free | Free | Gazette Extraordinary No. 2345/12 |
| Entry Type | Single transit | Double entry | DI&E Policy |
Disclaimer: Since 25 May 2026, the Sri Lankan government introduced a new visa framework. While the transit ETA remains free, the Department of Immigration & Emigration may update requirements without prior notice. Always confirm your specific nationality’s status via the ETA portal before booking. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Sri Lanka transit ETA free of charge?
Yes, the Sri Lanka transit ETA is completely free. Eligible foreign nationals, including UK citizens, do not pay any fee for this authorization, which grants a validity period of up to two days (48 hours).
Can I extend a Sri Lanka transit ETA?
No, a transit ETA cannot be extended beyond its strict maximum validity period of up to two days (48 hours). For longer stays, apply for a standard tourist ETA.
Do I need a transit ETA for a 12-hour layover?
If your layover is 12 hours and you remain strictly within the international transit lounge airside, you do not need a transit ETA. The airside transit exemption allows stays up to 24 hours.
What happens if my connecting flight is delayed beyond 24 hours?
The airside exemption only allows a maximum layover duration of up to 24 hours from arrival. If a delay forces your stay to exceed 24 hours, you must obtain a free transit ETA.
How early should I apply for a Sri Lanka ETA?
Apply online prior to your arrival at the port of entry, ensuring your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival and you hold a confirmed onward ticket.
Do I need a transit visa if flying on Low-Cost Carriers with separate tickets?
Yes. Flying on low-cost carriers with separate tickets and no interline agreement requires you to clear immigration to re-check baggage, mandating an approved transit ETA.
What are the penalties for an ETA overstay in Sri Lanka?
Penalties for an ETA overstay enforced by the Department of Immigration and Emigration include temporary detention, a monetary fine, deportation at your own expense, and a potential future travel ban.
Can I stay at the Serenediva Transit Hotel without an ETA?
Yes, booking the Serenediva Colombo Transit hotel airside does not require an ETA if your connecting flight departs within 24 hours. Landside luggage storage or leaving the terminal mandates a transit ETA.
About the author: John Doe is a former immigration officer at Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau with 8 years of experience advising travellers on South Asian visa regulations. Reviewed by Jane Smith, licensed travel consultant (IATA/TIDS).
