Sri Lanka visa requirements for Canadian citizens in 2026

Last updated 29 May 2026 Checked 20 Jul 2026
Flag of Canada — passport nationality Flag of Sri Lanka — destination
Entry requirement
Visa On Arrival
Max stay
30 days
Purpose
Tourism

Your options

Canadian passport holders travelling for tourism have the following routes into Sri Lanka:

1 Visa On Arrival RECOMMENDED

Upon arriving in Sri Lanka, Canadian citizens have the option to apply for a visa on arrival. This visa can be obtained directly at the country's entry points.

ENTRY
Visa On Arrival
ALLOWED STAY
30 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
2 Electronic Travel Authorization ALTERNATIVE

Canadian passport holders do not require a traditional visa to enter Sri Lanka, but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding. This is a simple online process and is typically approved within minutes.

ENTRY
Electronic Travel Authorization
ALLOWED STAY
30 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Validity
30 days
Entries allowed
double
Official application ↗
Last updated 20 Jul 2026 · Source: Online Visa Application
Optional · paid service
Want someone to handle the Sri Lanka paperwork?
Our partner iVisa checks your documents, files the application and chases it up — useful if you are short on time or the form is not in your language. You can also apply yourself for free using the official link above.
Apply with iVisa ↗

Further notes

  • Electronic Travel Authorization subject to granting/issuing.
  • With effect from 25.05.2026, Canadian nationals are eligible to obtain tourist visa (ETA) free-of-charge for a period of 30 days.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka from Canada?
Yes, a visa is required for Canadian citizens. A visa can be obtained upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Sri Lanka in 2026?
Yes, a visa is required for Canadian citizens. A visa can be obtained upon arrival in Sri Lanka. Options include: Visa On Arrival, Electronic Travel Authorization.
Can Canadian citizens travel to Sri Lanka?
Yes, Canadian citizens can travel to Sri Lanka and get a Visa On Arrival.
What is the maximum length of stay in Sri Lanka with Visa On Arrival for Canadian citizens?
The maximum length of stay in Sri Lanka with Visa On Arrival is 30 days. Canadian citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a Canadian citizen overstays their visa in Sri Lanka?
Overstaying a Visa On Arrival in Sri Lanka can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering Sri Lanka in the future. It is important to comply with the length of stay specified with the visa and leave the country within the allotted time.
What is the maximum length of stay in Sri Lanka with Electronic Travel Authorization for Canadian citizens?
The maximum length of stay in Sri Lanka with Electronic Travel Authorization is 30 days. Canadian citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
About Sri Lanka
Official
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Capital
Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte
Currency
Sri Lankan rupee
Language
Sinhala
Calling code
+94
Population
21,756,000
Region
Asia · Southern Asia
Reference links
Last checked 20 Jul 2026 · Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.