What are the latest travel restrictions pertaining to Sri Lanka?
Vaccination, Quarantine, and PCR requirements
As per the guidelines implemented in March for Sri Lanka travel restrictions 2022, fully vaccinated travelers can enter Sri Lanka without having to quarantine and do not require an on-arrival PCR test. Any Covid-19 vaccine accepted in the traveler’s country of origin is valid in Sri Lanka, as long as the English vaccination certificate is produced on arrival.
Vaccinated travelers are free to travel anywhere in the country, including public transport, without any restrictions whatsoever.
Unvaccinated travelers can enter Sri Lankan territory but travel restrictions will apply. With a negative vaccination status, you are required to quarantine under a “tourism bio bubble” for a period of 8 to 14 days. Several hotels in Sri Lanka are Level 1 certified – which means they are dedicated only to unvaccinated guests required to stay in the bubble. So, this way, even if you are not vaccinated, you still have some freedom of movement to tour the country. However, regular Covid-19 testing will be conducted to ensure the travel health of everyone moving under this bubble.
The most up-to-date information on international travel and entering Sri Lanka can be found on the official tourism website: https://srilanka.travel/helloagain/
Visa Requirements
Any person wishing to travel to Sri Lanka must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), also known as an online visa, before arrival. This document takes about 3 working days to process, and it is delivered via email and has a unique link to your passport. This ETA is a mandatory entry requirement and allows you to stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days. ETA on arrival is also possible, but arranging it in advance is recommended in order to avoid delays at the airport.
Along with the visa, a mandatory Covid Insurance must be purchased for each traveler, costing 12 USD per person. Regardless of your vaccination status, this insurance is compulsory as per the instructions given by the center of disease control and prevention.
Health Declaration
Each traveler is required to complete a health declaration form before landing in Sri Lanka. This form can be filled out online by uploading relevant documents such as the vaccination certificate and passport information. Upon submitting this form, a QR code will appear, which has to be shown digitally or on paper at the exit of the International Airports in Sri Lanka.
Guidelines for children
- Children below 18 years, who have received one dose of any vaccination are considered as fully vaccinated.
- If they are recovering from Covid or have a recent history of infections, a relevant medical note from the doctor should be in hand during traveling.
- Visa and insurance requirements are also applicable for children aged 0-18.
- Children below 12 years of age who are not vaccinated and are traveling with fully vaccinated adults do not require a PCR test on arrival and can travel anywhere in the country with their parents.
For more information on travel guidelines for children of different ages, please click on this link:
https://srilanka.travel/helloagain/documents/Tourist-Route-Children-Mar-03.pdf
Smart Traveler Enrolment Program (STEP)
US citizens/nationals planning to visit Sri Lanka can sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrolment Program (STEP). This is a free service that allows registering your foreign trip with the nearest US Embassy, in this case, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
By enrolling in this program, you can receive important information about the safety status in the country you wish to travel to. You are thereby making informed decisions before you travel. In addition to that, the US Embassy will be able to contact you easily in case of emergencies such as natural disasters, economic or civil unrest, and so on. The Embassy can also keep you updated with regard to general information on the proceedings in America – such as voter registration example.
The ultimate purpose of this traveler enrolment program (STEP) is to stay informed, connected, and safe.
For further assistance, please contact:
U.S. Embassy – Colombo, Sri Lanka
+94 77-725-8500 Phone
+94 77-725-6307 Phone (after hours)
colomboACS@State.gov
Conclusion
With the ease of Sri Lanka travel restrictions in 2022, you can now plan your holiday in Sri Lanka, regardless of your vaccination status. Organized measures are in place for both categories, with absolutely no restrictions for vaccinated travelers. Covid-19 testing is also out of the picture, pertaining to certain terms and conditions. So, all you have to do is book a flight ticket and apply for your ETA and you are all set to enter the paradise island of Sri Lanka!
