The Department of Immigration and Emigration has introduced temporary measures for Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) applicants due to a technical problem with its online system.
Officials say the ETA platform is currently experiencing issues. As a result, travellers may not receive the usual approval notice after applying.
However, authorities have clarified that most travellers must still apply through the official website, www.eta.gov.lk.
If applicants do not receive an approval notice, they must carry their ETA reference or acknowledgment notice when travelling. Immigration officers will verify this document at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Once officers confirm the acknowledgment notice, they will issue the relevant Tourist or Business ETA at the airport.
Travellers must also carry all required supporting documents. In addition, they must meet standard entry requirements to avoid delays at the airport.
Meanwhile, different rules apply to nationals from Cameroon, Nigeria, the Ivory Coast, Afghanistan, Ghana, and Syria. These travellers must apply for short-term visas through a Sri Lankan sponsor at the Department’s Head Office.
Passengers from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea must first obtain a recommendation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying for a short-term visa.
Authorities say these temporary measures aim to reduce inconvenience while maintaining border security and proper procedures.
The Department advises travellers to monitor official announcements for further updates. Officials will restore the normal ETA approval process once they resolve the system issue.
Travellers should check requirements carefully before departure to ensure a smooth arrival process.
Last modified: February 19, 2026
