Sri Lanka Visa Extension (2025): Online Portal, Battaramulla Steps & Overstay Rules
A standard tourist ETA grants 30 days on arrival (double entry during those 30 days). You can extend your stay in Sri Lanka up to a maximum of 270 days from the date of arrival, subject to approval.
How long can I stay on extensions?
- Initial stay: 30 days on ETA
- 1st extension: +60 days
- 2nd extension: +90 days
- 3rd extension: +90 days
Total possible stay: up to 270 days (30 + 60 + 90 + 90).
Option A — Extend Online (Official e-Visa Extension)
- Open the portal: eservices.immigration.gov.lk
- Register & log in with your email (one login can submit up to 10 applicants).
- Complete all required fields (*), including your Sri Lanka address & phone.
- Upload a clear image/scan of your passport data page (plus any requested docs).
- Save & confirm your submission.
- Receive a payment email from the Department of Immigration & Emigration within 3 days after submission. Note: this email rarely arrives on time or at all. You can call the Department and ask them to send it. You can also decide to leave it and pay the extension at the airport when you leave, stating you are still waiting for the payment email (show them the confirmation), and it should be fine (they know their system doesn’t work).
- Book an appointment at the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Battaramulla) to have your passport endorsed.
- Print the appointment email and bring it to the gate on the day.
Option B — Extend In Person (Battaramulla, Colombo)
Where: Department of Immigration & Emigration, “Suhurupaya”, Battaramulla (Visa Division).
Hours: Mon–Fri, 08:30–16:30 (arrive early; queues vary by season).
What to bring
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Completed extension form (spares available inside)
- 1 passport photo (photo services available outside/inside)
- Appointment printout if booked via the online portal
- Payment method (LKR cash or card; card typically charges in USD)
- Proof of onward travel and proof of funds (rarely requested, good to have)
- Pen, glue stick, water/snacks
Step-by-step at the Visa Division
- Arrival: Proceed to the Visa Division (Wing C).
- Token: Submit your form and passport at the front desk and collect your queue token.
- Wait #1: Watch the screens in Wing C for your token.
- Acceptance (Area B): When called, go to the Visa Application Acceptance Unit for document checks.
- Wait #2: Your token will be called to a counter/room (A–D) for review.
- Payment: Return to Wing C payment counters; fees are quoted in LKR (converted from USD). Pay by cash or card.
- Final wait & collection: Keep your receipt and wait for passport collection. Verify the new sticker and expiry date before you leave.
Option C — Extend Through an Agency
Pressed for time? A licensed visa agent can prepare documents, queue, and submit on your behalf. You’ll still hand over your passport (typically morning drop-off, evening pick-up). Service fees apply.
Can I apply for a longer visa at an embassy?
Some Sri Lankan embassies/consulates can issue visas longer than 30 days (e.g., 60–90 day entries). Availability and fees vary by mission—email or call ahead for current rules and processing times.
Overstaying: what happens
- If your visa expires, arrange an extension or departure as soon as possible.
- Penalties and additional fees may apply for overstays, and processing at the airport or department can cause delays.
- Serious or repeated overstays can affect future entry. Don’t risk it—extend on time.
FAQs
How many times can I extend?
Tourist stays can be extended in stages up to a total of 270 days from your arrival date (subject to approval).
Do I need an appointment?
If you start online, you’ll book an appointment via the portal; walk-ins are sometimes possible, but plan for queues.
Can I leave Sri Lanka and re-enter during my trip?
Your ETA provides double entry during the initial 30 days. After an in-country extension, re-entry may require a new ETA depending on timing and status.
How long does the in-person process take?
Arriving early often helps. Two hours is possible; longer during peak periods.