Sri Lanka has released an urgent advisory for international travelers following technical disruptions affecting its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. The malfunction has slowed approval notifications, creating confusion among tourists and business visitors. However, authorities stress that the application process remains mandatory and unchanged.
Travelers planning a trip must still submit the ETA application before departure. Failure to complete this requirement could result in denied boarding or entry complications upon arrival.
ETA Application Still Mandatory Despite Technical Issues
The Department of Immigration and Emigration has confirmed that the ETA system glitch does not waive visa requirements. All visitors who normally need an ETA must complete the online application process.
The current issue prevents many applicants from receiving automated approval emails. Despite this delay, travelers must proceed with the standard procedure.
Officials emphasize three essential steps:
- Submit the ETA application online before traveling.
- Carry proof of application submission.
- Present documents at immigration upon arrival.
Authorities warn that travelers who arrive without submitting an application risk delays or refusal of entry.
What Travelers Should Carry When Flying to Sri Lanka
Because approval emails may not arrive, Sri Lanka now requires travelers to carry an “ETA reference notice” as proof of submission. This document confirms that the application exists within the system.
Passengers should prepare the following documents:
- Valid passport with required validity period.
- ETA reference notice showing application status.
- Digital or printed copy of the confirmation page.
Airlines may request proof during check-in. Immigration officers will also review the reference notice at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo or other entry points.
ETA Issuance May Occur on Arrival
Under the temporary procedure, immigration officers may finalize ETA issuance at the airport. This applies to travelers whose applications show as “pending” due to technical delays.
Authorities advise travelers to remain calm if they do not receive email confirmation before departure. As long as the application has been submitted correctly, immigration staff will verify details through internal systems.
However, this flexibility only applies to travelers who completed the application beforehand. Those who skip the process may face serious travel disruptions.
How to Retrieve the ETA Reference Notice
Travelers affected by missing approval emails can still retrieve proof of application through the official ETA status page.
Follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official ETA portal.
- Select the option to check application status.
- Enter the confirmation code if available.
- If the code is unknown, use passport details and nationality to locate the application.
Most applicants may see a “Pending” status due to the ongoing glitch. This page still serves as valid confirmation that the application was submitted.
Experts recommend saving the page as a screenshot or PDF and printing a physical copy for travel.
Special Rules for Certain Nationalities
Sri Lankan authorities have clarified that some nationalities are not eligible for temporary flexibility measures during the system disruption.
Travelers from Cameroon, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Afghanistan, Ghana, and Syria must apply for short-term visas through approved sponsors and submit applications directly to immigration authorities. These travelers cannot rely on on-arrival processing linked to the ETA malfunction.
Additionally, nationals of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea require prior approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before applying for entry visas.
These stricter rules remain unchanged despite the technical issues.
Tips to Avoid Travel Disruption
With tourist arrivals increasing, authorities advise travelers to plan carefully and allow extra time for documentation.
Key tips include:
- Apply for ETA well in advance of travel dates.
- Check application status regularly.
- Keep digital and printed copies of documents.
- Confirm airline requirements before departure.
- Arrive early at airports to allow extra processing time.
Travel advisors also suggest monitoring official announcements for updates on the system repair timeline.
Tourism Impact and Government Response
Sri Lanka has experienced a steady recovery in tourism following recent economic challenges. Smooth visa processing plays a critical role in maintaining traveler confidence. Officials say technical teams are working to resolve the ETA platform issues as quickly as possible.
Despite the glitch, the country continues to welcome international visitors. Authorities stress that entry procedures remain functional, even if approvals take longer than usual.
What This Means for Upcoming Trips
The ETA malfunction does not prevent travel to Sri Lanka, but it requires extra preparation. Travelers must still complete the application process and carry proof of submission.
Following official guidelines will help avoid delays at departure or arrival. With proper documentation, most visitors should still experience smooth entry into the country.
Tourists planning upcoming trips should remain informed, prepare documents early, and expect additional verification steps until the ETA system returns to normal operation.
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