Sri Lanka on Thursday withdrew the requirement for tourists to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to arrival. The decision was earlier implemented by the country’s Department of Immigration and Emigration from October 15.
“The earlier announcement making ETA mandatory for all short-stay visitors from all countries from 15 October 2025 has been revoked until further notice,” Sri Lankan Ambassador to India Mahishini Colonne posted on X. She added that all ETA and visa issuance services would continue to function as they were before October 15.
Sri Lanka eyeing 5 lakh Indian tourists in 2025
The decision to withdraw ETA comes as Sri Lanka intensifies efforts to attract five lakh Indian tourists in 2025, with a special push toward wedding and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism.
“We are expecting five lakh tourists from India in 2025,” said Buddhika Hewawasam, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority in September. “Indians are travelling beyond Colombo and Bentota to explore the central highlands and attractions like the Ramayana Trails,” he added.
Sri Lanka largest source market is India
The rollback of the ETA rule is expected to make travel smoother for Indian tourists planning to visit the island nation. By reverting to previous visa procedures, an extra administrative step for Indian tourists will be removed, in turn improving travel flexibility.
India has been Sri Lanka’s largest source market, accounting for over 31% of total visitors in the month of September and over 20% in the first eight months of 2025. In 2024, 4.16 lakh Indians travelled to the island nation, contributing significantly to its post-pandemic tourism recovery.
“Currently, the average spend per tourist per day is $170. We are targeting $180 this year,” Hewawasam said, adding that the tourism board will support Indian travel agents with venue sourcing, coordination and special packages.