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.
- Book an appointment at the Department of Immigration & Emigration (Battaramulla) to endorse your passport.
- Print the appointment email and bring it to the gate on the day.
Tip: If you plan a side trip and need your second entry, do that before extending—an in-country extension can affect the remaining double-entry benefit.
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.