If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, it’s essential to understand the entry formalities, including theArrival Card in Sri Lanka. Since 2023, the Sri Lankan authorities have introduced an online option that makes entering the country much easier. I’ll explain in detail how to fill in this form, why it’s important, and share with you my personal experience with this system.
✈️ What is the Arrival Card in Sri Lanka and why is it compulsory?
TheArrival Card in Sri Lanka is a document that all travelers must complete before entering the country. This form enables the immigration authorities to collect information on passengers, their length of stay and their accommodation.
📝 Information requested includes:
- Your personal details (surname, first name, passport number, nationality, etc.).
- Your flight details (flight number, country of origin, date of arrival).
- Address of your accommodation in Sri Lanka (hotel, guest house, private residence).
- The reason for your trip (tourism, business, family visit, transit).
The purpose of this procedure is to ensure efficient entry control and facilitate airport checks.
💻 How do I fill in the Arrival Card for Sri Lanka online?
Since the introduction of the online system, completing this form before your departure is highly recommended. It saves paperwork at the airport and speeds up your passage through immigration.
📌 S teps to complete the Arrival Card in Sri Lanka online :
1️⃣ Go to the official website of the Sri Lankan immigration authorities.
2️⃣ Fill in the form with your personal and travel information.
3️⃣ Check all information carefully before submitting your application.
4️⃣ Once the form has been validated, you will receive confirmation by email.
5️⃣ Print or save a screenshot of the confirmation for presentation at the airport.
🔴 Important: Each traveler, including children, must complete a separate Sri Lanka Arrival Card.
🎯 What are the advantages of the online form?
✅ S ave time: No need to fill in the paper form at the airport.
✅ Less stress: You avoid last-minute mistakes by filling everything out calmly at home.
✅ S implified process: Immigration control is faster if your information is already entered into the system.
✈️ Need Help with the Arrival Card?
Filling out the Arrival Card can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time.
To make things easier, we’ve prepared a short video tutorial that walks you through the process step by step.
📹 Watch the video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/xmlfXq0ynTE?si=lGTqFxa_QPVjHV4g
Take a minute to watch before you travel — it’ll save you time and hassle at the border!
🛬 My personal experience with the Arrival Card in Sri Lanka online
On my last trip to Sri Lanka, I tested this system to see if it lived up to its promise. So I filled out the Arrival Card in Sri Lanka online three days before my departure. The process took less than 10 minutes, and I immediately received a confirmation email.
On arrival at Colombo airport, I headed for the immigration counters with my passport and the screenshot of the confirmation. The agent simply scanned my passport, checked my details and wished me a pleasant stay. In less than 5 minutes, I was already collecting my luggage!
Other travellers who hadn ‘t filled in the Arrival Card for Sri Lanka online had to stop and fill in the paper form, which took them longer. Suffice to say, the online option is a real time-saver, especially after a long flight.
❌ What if you didn’t fill out the Arrival Card in Sri Lanka before arriving?
Don’t panic! If you didn’t have time or weren’t aware of this, you can always fill in the Arrival Card in Sri Lanka in paper format at the airport.
📝 But be careful:
- You’ll need to find a pen and fill in the form on the spot.
- You risk wasting time if several passengers have to do the same thing.
- An immigration officer will check your form before letting you through.
👉 My advice: If you can do it online, don’t miss out!
🌏 Other formalities not to forget before you leave!
In addition to theArrival Card in Sri Lanka, make sure you have:
✔️ An electronic visa (ETA): It is mandatory to enter Sri Lanka and must be obtained before your departure.
✔️ A valid passport: This must be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date.
✔️ A return or exit ticket.
✔️ Proof of accommodation: This may be a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation.
🎯 Conclusion: A little effort goes a long way!
Completing theArrival Card in Sri Lanka online is a free, fast and efficient process that considerably simplifies your passage through immigration. My advice: do it at least 48 hours before departure to avoid forgetting anything.
If you have any questions or would like to share your own experience, don’t hesitate to leave a comment! 😊
Bon voyage and enjoy your stay in Sri Lanka! 🏝️🌿
