What the official ETA page states
The Sri Lanka ETA site states that all foreign nationals, including nationals of the countries it lists, are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. India is one of the 40 countries whose nationals are listed as eligible to obtain the tourist visa (ETA) free of charge, valid for 30 days. Visitors who want to stay longer may apply for an extension on payment of the applicable fee.
Tourist category, not a business rule
The free ETA described there is the tourist category. The page does not state business-visit requirements, fees or validity for general applicants, so do not assume that a free tourist ETA covers meetings, fair attendance or project work. Confirm the correct category for a business trip with the Sri Lankan authorities.
Questions to settle before a business trip
- Which ETA or visa category matches the activity — meetings, a trade fair, installation, training?
- Whether a 30-day stay is enough, and how an extension is handled if the project runs over.
- Whether the host in Sri Lanka needs to issue any letter for the category you choose.
These points are not answered on the ETA page, so they are confirmed with the official source for each trip.
How BTW helps with a Sri Lanka trip
Classify the activity.
We map each traveller’s planned work to the category the Sri Lankan authorities describe.
Obtain the ETA before departure.
Because it is required before arrival, we sequence ETA filing ahead of flights and hotels.
Check the stay limit.
We compare the 30-day tourist period with the project plan and flag any extension need early.
Official sources
Checked on 12 October 2026. Rules change — verify on the official sources before you travel. Anything not stated above has not been verified and should be confirmed with the relevant authority.
Talk to our corporate team
Share your destination, travel dates and number of travellers and we will outline the route and document checklist for your team.