Short answer
Online travel authorization
British citizens don't need a full visa for Sri Lanka, but must get an electronic travel authorization online before travelling.
How to apply
Every visitor needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. Since 25 May 2026 the 30-day tourist ETA is free for citizens of 40 countries, including India, Pakistan, the UK and the US.
Official website: Sri Lanka official ETA website
Before you travel
- Make sure your British passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and has blank pages.
- Carry a return or onward ticket, your hotel booking and proof that you can pay for your stay; border officers can ask for them even when no visa is needed.
- Check whether your airline needs to see your visa or authorization at check-in; many will refuse boarding without it.
- Visas for work, study or long stays follow different rules from the tourist rules on this page.
Visa rules for Sri Lanka by passport
 Pakistan | eTA |
 India | eTA |
 Bangladesh | eTA |
 Nigeria | eTA |
 Philippines | eTA |
 Egypt | eTA |
 United States | eTA |
 United Kingdom | eTA |
Frequently asked questions
Do British citizens need a visa for Sri Lanka?
Online travel authorization. British citizens don't need a full visa for Sri Lanka, but must get an electronic travel authorization online before travelling.
How long can British citizens stay in Sri Lanka?
The permitted stay depends on the authorization issued; check the official website before travel.
Where do British citizens apply for a Sri Lanka visa?
Use the official website: Sri Lanka official ETA website (www.eta.gov.lk). Avoid unofficial sites that charge extra service fees.
How many countries can British passport holders visit without a visa?
British passport holders can visit 120 countries visa-free and 43 more with a visa on arrival or eTA.
Based on the Passport Index dataset with our verified corrections for recent rule changes, last reviewed October 19, 2026. Entry rules change often and depend on your passport, purpose of travel and onward tickets. Always confirm with the official website or embassy before you book.