German visitors to Sri Lanka will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their trip, unless their stay is less than 48 hours. This can be done online through the Sri Lankan government website [ETA Sri Lanka ON Department of Immigration and Emigration eta.gov.lk]. The ETA is valid for up to 30 days and allows for multiple entries.
Here are the requirements for a German citizen to obtain a Sri Lanka ETA:
- A valid German passport with at least six months validity remaining from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka
- Proof of onward travel (e.g., a return flight ticket)
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay (e.g., bank statements or credit cards)
- A completed online application form
- A valid credit or debit card for the payment of the ETA fee (USD $35)
It is recommended that you apply for your ETA at least 48 hours before your departure for Sri Lanka. Once approved, you will receive your ETA electronically. You will need to print out a copy of your ETA to bring with you on your trip.
In addition to the ETA, there are a few other things that German visitors to Sri Lanka should be aware of:
- Visa on Arrival: While an ETA is the preferred method, a visa upon arrival can also be obtained at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport for a fee of USD $60. However, this process can be time-consuming, so it is best to obtain an ETA in advance if possible.
- Currency exchange: The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange your euros (EUR) or US dollars (USD) for Sri Lankan rupees at banks, currency exchange offices, or the airport.
- Insurance: It is recommended that you purchase travel insurance before you travel to Sri Lanka. This will help to cover the costs of medical bills, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
