sri lanka travel entry requirements covid

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory September 5, 2023

Sri lanka - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to protest information. 

Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to civil unrest , and terrorism.

Country Summary: Protests over the economic and political situation in Sri Lanka could erupt at any time. In some instances, police have used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones, that could turn violent with little or no warning.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Sri Lanka, with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in remote areas. 

 Read the  country information page . 

 If you decide to travel to Sri Lanka: 

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues. 
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information. 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Sri Lanka. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Sri Lanka.

One page required for entry stamp. 

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Foreign currency over USD 15,000 must be declared.

If exiting with foreign currency over USD 5,000, the full amount brought in or acquired in Sri Lanka must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-7345 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Sri Lanka for information on U.S.- Sri Lanka relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens visiting Sri Lanka must have either an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visa to enter Sri Lanka. 

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for purposes of tourism or transit require an approval notice from Sri Lanka’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System), onward/return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. The ETA system is available online or at the port of entry; however, visitors are strongly urged to use the online system to avoid lengthy delays at the port of entry. This travel authorization allows entry for up to 30 days.  

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for short-term business activities such as participating in business meetings, engaging in business negotiations, or attending conferences and workshops are required to obtain a business ETA. Business ETAs are not available online. Business travelers must obtain travel authorization either from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka, or at the port of entry in Sri Lanka.

U.S. citizens intending to visit Sri Lanka for religious or volunteer work or for local employment must obtain entry visas from the nearest Sri Lankan Embassy or Consulate before arrival in Sri Lanka. These visas are not available at the port of entry or through the online system.

All visitors staying beyond the expiration date of their visa must obtain a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo and pay the relevant visa fees.

Specific inquiries regarding entry and exit requirements should be addressed to the  Embassy of Sri Lanka , 3025 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington DC 20008, telephone (202) 483-4025, fax (202) 232- 2329. Contact the Sri Lankan Embassy by  e-mail ; the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Los Angeles at 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 2180, Los Angeles, CA 90010, telephone (213) 387-0210; or the  Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations  in New York City, 820 Second Avenue, 2 nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, telephone (212) 986-7040, fax (212) 986 1838. There are several honorary Sri Lankan consuls general and consuls in the United States. Visit the  Embassy of Sri Lanka website  for current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Sri Lanka. 

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

The last terrorist attack in Sri Lanka occurred on April 19, 2019, when terrorists carried out coordinated bombings of hotels and churches in Colombo and Batticaloa, killing more than 250 people and injuring more than 500 more. The terrorists were Sri Lankan nationals associated with the Islamic groups National Thowheeth Jama’ath Millathu Ibraheem. Authorities believe the perpetrators of the attack are dead or have been captured. Many hotels and shopping areas increased their physical security presence in response to the bombings and security screenings of guests and bags has become standard in many locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Most crimes against U.S. citizens continue to be petty crime and crimes of opportunity (e.g., pickpocketing, hotel room thefts, and fraud). There is some organized criminal activity, which can involve drug-related crimes and gang-on-gang violence, but these events do not tend to involve foreign travelers.

There are occasional reports of credit card fraud. Authorities have arrested foreign nationals and organized groups for complicity in financial crimes. Avoid situations where your card is removed from your view. There have been reports of employees at reputable businesses (e.g., restaurants or chain grocery stores) wearing data skimming devices in their clothing and scanning a victim’s credit card or using other methods to steal credit card information. ATM skimming is also a threat. If you use an ATM, be on the lookout for skimming devices. Cover keypads with your hand.

Street hustlers are common around popular hotels, shopping areas, and other tourist sites. There are occasional reports of snatch and grab theft of purses or jewelry owned by tourists, but no recent reports of armed robberies.  Beware of tuk-tuk or taxi drivers offering “special” tours or access to festivals or gem shops. This common scam often results in tourists being heavily pressured to buy “gems” that are either cut glass or are worth much less than the price being asked.

Likely due to Sri Lanka’s economic situation, there is a scam in which a tuk-tuk driver charges your ride using an app on their phone, claiming the meter is broken. When you get close to the destination, the phone either slips down or the app closes, and they charge a much higher amount than the routine cost. If a tuk-tuk does not have a meter, agree on a price before beginning the ride, and try to have the correct amount of cash so you do not need change.

Surf schools are known to run scams where they claim renters damaged their boards and demand exorbitant prices to repair the damage. Examine and take pictures of your surfboard before taking it into the water.

Sexual harassment is pervasive. Both foreigners and locals, more commonly women, report instances of cat calls and physical harassment (grabbing of body parts) while in crowded areas and/or public transportation.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent. Police may deploy water cannons and/or tear gas in response to violent protests.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

In general, demonstrations in Sri Lanka are peaceful, resulting only in traffic congestion. However, some have ended in violence between the protestors and police or opposition groups. Demonstrations can involve confrontations with police, resulting in the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Large political rallies are common. These rallies are generally peaceful but can disrupt traffic.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams occasionally occur in Sri Lanka. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited text messages and WhatsApp messages. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating 
• Contracts with promises of large commissions 
• Work permits/job offers

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If they ask for help, you should refer them to the closest U.S embassy or consulate so we can assist them.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact both the tourist police (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500) for assistance. Report crimes to both the tourist police and the U.S. Embassy. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation  and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys ;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. If you break local laws in Sri Lanka, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know what is legal and what is not where you travel. 

In places like military checkpoints, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you. When arriving in Sri Lanka, ensure your luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, such as weapons, ammunition, explosives, gold, narcotics, and pornography. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Sri Lanka are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Under the Cultural Prosperity Act and the Antiques Ordinance, the unlicensed export of antiques from the country is considered a criminal act.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Special Circumstance : Sri Lanka recognizes limited  dual nationality . For further information, please contact the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington, D.C., the Consulate General in Los Angeles, or the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in New York City.

The Sri Lankan police and military maintain several checkpoints throughout the country. U.S. citizens are advised to always carry identification such as their passports with them while in Sri Lanka. Photography is prohibited in designated high security zones and near many government facilities such as offices and military installations.

U.S. citizens who arrive by yacht or private boat should be aware that all marine harbors are high security zones. Travelers arriving by sea should be prepared for Sri Lankan Navy officials to inspect their vessels and should always wait for radio clearance before coming into port. 

Religious Laws: Tourists should be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Buddhist or Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Posing for a photograph with your back to a statue of Buddha is a serious offense in Sri Lanka, punishable by a fine or arrest. Travelers should also be cognizant of displaying religious imagery, including tattoos of Buddha, while traveling to and transiting within the country, as foreign nationals have been arrested or denied entry to Sri Lanka due to such tattoos.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Women Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you are encouraged to call the tourist police immediately (hotline: 1912 or 011-242-1451) and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy (011-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in Sri Lanka that may be able to provide assistance.  If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes committed in Sri Lanka. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers : See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Sri Lanka, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Sri Lankan Supreme Court has directed that steps be taken to provide easy access for persons with disabilities to public buildings. Although there are regulations on accessibility in place, lack of wheelchair access in most buildings limits access for people with disabilities. Potholes and sidewalks in poor repair can make movement very difficult. The road network in Sri Lanka is improving, but many roads remain in medium to poor condition. Sidewalks and road crossings in most major towns tend to be congested with vendors, stray dogs, and groups of people loitering on street corners. 

Ambulance Services: For ambulance services in the Sri Lanka, dial 1990.

Ambulance services are widely available, but response times vary, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Ambulances are typically not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Sri Lanka. 

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.  
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)  
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)  
• General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)  

The Department of State, U.S. embassies, and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are six large hospitals in the Colombo area, including four facilities with emergency medical and trauma service: Asiri Surgical Hospital; Lanka Hospital; Asiri Central Hospital; and the government-run National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Medical facilities outside Colombo are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them. Serious medical conditions can require evacuation to the United States or to a nearby country with more advanced medical facilities, such as Thailand or Singapore. Neither Thailand nor Singapore require U.S. citizens to have entry visas.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescriptions in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Sri Lanka's Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Sri Lanka.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Water Quality: In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Infectious Diseases: Several mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever, Chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are present in Sri Lanka. Dengue fever, in particular, is widespread in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, where the capital Colombo is located. Adequate mosquito protection is strongly advised to prevent this serious illness.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis for some travelers).

For additional health information about Sri Lanka, please visit:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: While in Sri Lanka, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. Vehicular traffic in Sri Lanka moves on the left (British style). Traffic in Colombo can be congested. Narrow two-lane highways, overloaded with trucks, poorly driven buses, and a variety of conveyances on the road, ranging from ox carts and bicycles to new four-wheel-drive vehicles, make driving dangerous. Unexpected roadblocks and one-way streets are common and may not be clearly marked. Many visitors hire cars and drivers for long trips through the country. Individuals who choose to hire three-wheeled vehicles (“tuks” or “three wheelers”) should use metered vehicles or negotiate prices beforehand to avoid confrontations upon arrival. If you are renting a vehicle, you should specifically request one with working seatbelts.

Heavy rains sometimes cause flooding which can make roads inaccessible for several days and bring with them the risk of landslides.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Public Transportation: While public buses are readily available, the U.S. Embassy does not recommend using them due to safety concerns.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Sri Lanka’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Sri Lanka, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Sri Lanka should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For Additional Travel Information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Updates on COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019)

Sri lanka situation.

Patient Status

Last Update: 12:13 PM, 13th Dec 2022

Daily New Cases in Sri Lanka

Daily Recoveries in Sri Lanka

02 nd June 2020

Last Update: 01:45 PM, 10 th May 2020

10 th May 2020

22 nd March 2020

• All airplanes and ships banned for Sri Lanka

All passenger flight & ship arrivals into Sri Lanka stopped till Coronavirus threat is brought under control. All departure flights from Sri Lanka will continue to operate as usual.

18 th March 2020

• Sri Lanka halts arrivals at Katunayake Airport

Sri Lanka suspends all passenger arrivals from all countries at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake starting from 0400 hours 19 March 2020. Arrival of passengers will accordingly be halted until 2359 hours March 25; however, cargo, departures and transit are to be continued. Previously, the Jaffna International Airport (JIA) was shut down for two weeks.

• Visa extended for foreigners currently in country

Emails: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected].

Any inquiries on the matter can be made through 0771588724 and the public is advised to refrain from visiting the Department of Immigration and Emigration premises during the above period.

17 th March 2020

• Passengers from Qatar, Bahrain & Canada barred from landing in Sri Lanka

The Civil Aviation Authority has announced that passengers from Qatar, Bahrain and Canada will not be permitted to land in Sri Lanka starting from midnight today (17). The travel ban will be in place for two weeks. This restriction will not apply to passengers transiting Qatar, Canada or Bahrain, if they are not nationals of the three countries.

16 th March 2020

• Closure of National Museums

The 11 national museums under the Department of Museums will be closed indefinitely.

• Sri Lanka Limits Provision of Consular Services in More Overseas Missions

The Ministry of Foreign Relations has initiated action to regulate consular services in the United Kingdom (London), Belgium (Brussels) and Norway (Oslo). Accordingly, from 16th March 2020, consular services offered by Sri Lanka Missions in these countries will be limited to the issuance of emergency travel documents, issuance of certification and related documents connected to death, and any other emergency services considered necessary.

15 th March 2020

Government introduces a hotline 117 from 8 pm today for public to seek or provide information on Covid-19

• Sri Lanka Navy Geared to Handle COVID-19 at Ports

The Sri Lanka Navy conducted a drill at the harbor yesterday (14th March) to rehearse Standard Operational Procedure that could be adopted in the event of transferring a suspected COVID-19 patient from a ship to hospital ashore and quarantining a particular area on the land.

• Sri Lanka Limits Provision of Consular Services in Overseas Missions

The Ministry of Foreign Relations has decided to limit the provision of consular services in 11 Sri Lanka Missions overseas commencing 16th March until further notice. These Missions have arranged to restrict services related only to the issuance of temporary/emergency travel documents, issuance and certification of documents relevant to deaths of Sri Lankans and any other emergency consular service deemed necessary, on a case by case basis. This will be done based on prior appointments obtained from the Missions.

• Ban on Public Gatherings

The Police Media Division stated that hosting any event, including gatherings that involve large crowds of people will be prohibited for two weeks with effect from 15th March 2020.

14 th March 2020

• Screening of Films Halted

All movie theatres under the purview of the National Film Corporation have been requested by the Cultural Affairs Ministry to suspend screening of movies until further notice. The decision was made taking into consideration the prevailing health concerns due to the threat of COVID-19 in the country. . . .

13 th March 2020

• Temporary Suspension of Visa for the following 12 countries

A temporary suspension of Visas will be in effect for Qatar, Bahrain, France, Spain, Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden and Austria for a period of two weeks from 23:59 hrs (local time in Sri Lanka) on 15th March and it will come to an end at 24:00 hrs (local time in Sri Lanka) on 29th March 2020. This is in addition to Iran, Republic of Korea and Italy.

• Sri Lankan Passengers from Europe, excluding the UK, to be Quarantined

Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced that all travel beginning from France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden and Austria will be banned for two weeks from 15 – 29 March 2020. All airlines flying to Sri Lanka are strongly instructed not to board any passenger, either originating from the aforementioned countries or who has been to these countries within the last 14 days.

• Travel Ban on Eight Additional Countries for Two Weeks
• Two Week Travel Ban on all Passengers Arriving from South Korea, Italy and Iran

The Government of Sri Lanka has imposed a two week travel ban on passengers from South Korea, Italy and Iran, starting 14th March 2020. Accordingly, the Government has advised all airlines to refrain from boarding passengers either originating from South Korea, Italy and Iran, or having been in any of the three countries within the last 14 days.

• Self-declaration Forms for All Travellers

Passengers of all international flights entering into Sri Lanka from any port are required to provide personal particulars, address and contact number in Sri Lanka, and travel history to health officials and immigration officials.

• Hotline for COVID-19 Information

The Department of Government Information has shared two hotline numbers for the general public to obtain information on COVID-19. The numbers are +94 710107107 or +94 (0) 113071073.

12 th March 2020

• On-arrival Visa Suspended

Sri Lanka has indefinitely suspended the issuance of on-arrival visas for all visitors. Visa applications need to be made prior to arrival, through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) website here.

• Closure of Schools

The Ministry of Education has declared that all schools on the island will be closed from 13th March to 20th April 2020.

Important Links

• Daily Update - Epidemiology Unit
• Testing locations - Epidemiology Unit
• WHO global situation report
• WHO global dashboard
• Sri Lanka Tourism Alliance

Updates and Press Releases

Arrangements are in place for international tourists to get to their home countries 26 th March 2020

Updates from Sri Lanka Tourism on the novel Coronavirus 18 th March 2020

Updates from Sri Lanka Tourism on the novel Coronavirus 13 th March 2020

Updates from Sri Lanka Tourism on the novel Coronavirus 05 th March 2020

Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations

Travel and quarantine guidelines.

• Google Plus

 passengers travelling to Sri Lanka to complete the online Health Declaration Form prior to their arrival in Sri Lanka.

The relevant link is given below :

https://airport.lk/health_declaration/index

Exemption of Pre-Departure COVID-19testing (PCR/ Rapid Antigen Test) of Fully Vaccinates Travellers arriving in Sri Lanka  - issued on 25 February 2022  

Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID-19 - issued on 27 January 2022

Removal of Travel restrictions for Travellers arriving from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho. Namibia, Zimbabwe and Eswatini (Swaziland) - issued on 10 December 2021

Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID-19 - issued on 26 November 2021

Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID-19 - issued on 25 October 2021

Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID-19 - issued on 17 October 2021

Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID-19 - issued on 03 October 2021

  Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID - issued on 26 June 2021

Quarantine measures for travellers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID 19  - ISSUED ON 06 June 2021

Re-Opening of On Arrival ETA Counter at the Bandadaranayake International Airport and Mattala International Airport

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Sri Lanka Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Sri Lanka. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles April 26, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia
• Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Sri Lanka.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Sri Lanka. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Sri Lanka.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

• Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
• Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
• Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

• Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
• Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season. 

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Sri Lanka. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Sri Lanka, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Sri Lanka. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Sri Lanka, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Sri Lanka. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Sri Lanka include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Sri Lanka. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Sri Lanka’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Sri Lanka. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Sri Lanka may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Sri Lanka, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Sri Lanka.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Sri Lanka for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

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What You Need to Know

COVID-19 Statistics

COVID-19 Hospital Admission Statistics Find out More

If you think you are sick ?

Self-Quarantine / Home Quarantine

• What are the Measures to be taken in Home quarantining / Self quarantining? Find out More

How to protect yourself and others ?

• Basic Preventive measures Find out More

• Prevention at Workplace Find out More

• Prevention at Market Place Find out More

Advices for people with special health needs

• Pregnant Mothers Find out More

• Cancer Patients Find out More

• Patients on treatment for Non-communicable diseases Find out More

Hospitals and Laboratories for COVID-19 related services

• List of hospitals for COVID-19 Treatment Find out More

• PCR testing laboratories for COVID-19

Find out More click here to download the PDF file

Information for General Public

Delivery of medicine from hospital clinics Find out More

Revised Timeline for Public Activities Find out More

Home Quarantine - Sinhala Find out More

Information for Healthcare Professionals

COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines / Circulars issued by Ministry of Health

Discharge Criteria for COVID 19 Patients- Version 3 new

COVID-19 Risk Management and Community Engagement

Wearing Masks in the community

Use of Gloves in the community

Rational use of PPE and Infection prevention and control of COVID - 19

Guidance on carrting out RT-PCR test for COVID-19 in work settings

Interim guidelines for Sri Lankan primary care physicians

Management of Accidental Discovery of Suspected COVID-19 Patient in the Hospital

Guidance of resumption of immunization services during COVID - 19 outbreak

Operational Guidelines on preparedness and response for COVID-19 Outbreak for work settings

Screening and management of healthcare workers following exposure to a confirmed/suspected case of COVID-19

IRelease of persons who have quarantined from the quarantine centers

Maintenance of a Register for workers exposed to COVID 19

Provisional Clinical Practice Guidelines on COVID-19 suspected and confirmed patients

Guideline for the Home quarantine / Quarantine in non-health care settings

Guidance on the rational use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hospitals in the context of COVID-19 disease

Environmental Cleaning Guidelines to be used during the COVID-19 outbreak

Towards New Normal Guidelines

01. Use of Taxi services

02. Use of Trishaws

03. Riding a Bicycle

04. Users of Walkways

05. Conduct of conferences & seminars

06. Tuition Classes

07. Public meetings

08. Resumption of General and Family Practice amidst COVID threat

09. Security Officers

10. Photographers & Videographers

11. Public and private vehicle parking

12. Communications & Electronic Shops

13. Places of Alcohol and Tobacco Sale

14. Child day care centres and pre-schools

15. Care Homes for Older Persons

16. Prisons

17. Weddings in hotels & reception halls

18. Funeral Houses

19. Places of worship

20. Parks (ChildrenPublic)

21. Visiting family and friends

22. Swimming pools and beaches

23. Indoor Sports Halls and Sports Classes

24. Gymnasium

26. Large and medium sized Industries

27. Offices (Public and Private)

28. Construction Sites

29. Garages

30. Shops (General)

31. Supermarkets

32. Groceries Small boutiques

33. Restaurants

34. Government Ministries Departments and any other authorities

35. Clothing shops

36. Open Markets

37. Street vendors

38. Use of public buses

39. Use of Trains

40. Barber and Beauty Salons

41. Postal Services

42. Mobile Food Vendors; RawWashable Food

43. Mobile Food Vendors; Ready to Eat Food Items, including Bakery

44. Garbage Handlers, Street Cleaner and Cleaning Staff

45. Tailors and dressmakers

46. Tourism and hotel sector

Important web links

World Health Organization

Epidemiology Unit - Ministry of Health GOAL

Quarantine Unit - Ministry of Health GOAL

Center for Disease Control & Prevention

Department of Government Information

Daily Situation Reports of Epidemiology Unit ( Sri Lanka)

IEC materials for Pre Schools

Download videos related to COVID-19 prevention

Download Leaflets and Posters related to COVID-19 prevention

Download research publications related to COVID-19 prevention

Living the new normal with COVID 19

Package of IEC for schools in COVID 19 - Sinhala medium

Frequently asked questions, what is a coronavirus.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.

How does COVID-19 spread?

People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales. These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs out or exhales droplets. This is why it is important to stay more than 1 meter (3 feet) away from a person who is sick. WHO is assessing ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share updated findings.

What are symptoms of COVID-19 ?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.

Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be transmitted through the air?

Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air. See previous answer on “How does COVID-19 spread?”

Can CoVID-19 be caught from a person who has no symptoms?

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill. WHO is assessing ongoing research on the period of transmission of COVID-19 and will continue to share updated findings.

Can I catch COVID-19 from the feces of someone with the disease?

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to below. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. WHO is assessing ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

What can I do to protect myself and prevent the spread of disease?

Protection measures for everyone.

Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority. Many countries around the world have seen cases of COVID-19 and several have seen outbreaks. Authorities in China and some other countries have succeeded in slowing or stopping their outbreaks. However, the situation is unpredictable so check regularly for the latest news.

How likely am I to catch COVID-19?

The risk depends on where you are - and more specifically, whether there is a COVID-19 outbreak unfolding there.For most people in most locations the risk of catching COVID-19 is still low. However, there are now places around the world (cities or areas) where the disease is spreading. For people living in, or visiting, these areas the risk of catching COVID19 is higher. Governments and health authorities are taking vigorous action every time a new case of COVID-19 is identified. Be sure to comply with any local restrictions on travel, movement or large gatherings. Cooperating with disease control efforts will reduce your risk of catching or spreading COVID-19. COVID-19 outbreaks can be contained and transmission stopped, as has been shown in China and some other countries. Unfortunately, new outbreaks can emerge rapidly. It’s important to be aware of the situation where you are or intend to go. WHO publishes daily updates on the COVID-19 situation worldwide.

These are the most common symptoms of COVID-19. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell.

Sore throat

Difficulty in breathing

Having these symptoms doesn’t mean you have COVID-19. However, since these are common symptoms of the COVID-19 infection, for the sake of those close to you, please follow the measures mentioned below. Understand that this is part of your national responsibility.

Do not leave home for any reason other than seeking medical advice.

If possible, use a separate room for yourself.

Always keep a distance of at least one meter between yourself and others at home.

If possible, use a separate washroom. If this is not possible, always wash the taps, doorknobs etc. after use with soap and water.

Do not encourage visitors to the house.

Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Ask your family members to do the same.

Use separate cups, plates, towels, bedspreads etc. Wash them separately with soap and water.

Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing and sneezing. Safely dispose of the used tissues.

Do not reuse face masks and gloves etc. Dispose them in a garbage bin with a lid.

If you have returned from abroad or associated someone who has COVID-19 or someone suspected of being infected within the past 14 days, immediately report to the Public Health Inspector (PHI) or the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) of your area.

Call 1999 hotline for medical and other advice regarding Covid-19.

Call 1990 for ambulance facilities in case of an emergency.

  A person with above symptoms,

returned to Sri Lanka from ANY COUNTRY within the last 14 days

having close-contact with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patient during the last 14 days prior to onset of symptoms

with severe acute pneumonia regardless of travel or contact history as decided by the treating Consultant

are advised to seek medical advice from the nearest Government Hospital immediately.

Covid-19 prevention methods.

You can reduce your chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking these simple precautions.

Always wear a clean face mask when you leave home

Wash your hands often

Cover your cough and sneeze using elbow

Cover your cough and sneeze using a tissue and dispose tissue properly

Avoid Shaking hands or hugging your friends and relatives

Avoid crowded places

Maintain at least one meter distance between yourself and others, if in public or while you are talking

Data Source  |  Epidemiology Unit , Ministry of Health

ADVICES FOR CANCER PATIENTS DURING COVID-19 OUTBREAK

If you find symptoms of corona, contact the nearest hospital assigned to you. Avoid going to cancer hospital.

If you currently get treatment for cancer, go to cancer clinic or central station as normal.

If you are a prescription for cancer, send a trusted person with appropriate documents and get necessary medicines.

Avoid coming to the treatment station until patients who visit more information about cancer treatment are reported.

Contact your cancer hospital for more information.

Home quarantining / Self quarantining

What is Home quarantining / Self quarantining ?

“Home quarantining” refers to keeping visibly healthy, possible high-risk contacts separately at non-health care settings..

Who should be Home quarantined / Self quarantined ?

A person who have returned to Sri Lanka from overseas with in the last 14 days A person who had maintained close contact with a suspected or diagnosed case of COVID- 19 with in last 14 days

Measures to be taken in Home quarantining / Self quarantining

• Have a separate room allocated for you if possible. • Maintain a minimum distance of one meter between you and family members. • Use a separate bathroom if possible. If you have to share a bathroom make sure you wash doorknobs, taps, etc with soap and water. • Do not encourage visitors. • You, as well as others at home, must wash hands frequently and thoroughly (for at least 20 seconds) • Do not share plates, cups, glasses, towels and bedsheets. Wash yours separately with soap and water. • Always cover your mouth with a disposable tissue or the inside of your elbow while sneezing or coughing. Dispose used tissues securely into a garbage bin with a lid. • Dispose of all facemasks and gloves you used securely into a garbage bin with a lid • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. • Monitor your body temperature by measuring it at least twice a day. • If you develop any flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches and difficulty in breathing immediately to the Public Health Inspector and/or the Medical Officer. • Contact the Suwaseriya Ambulance service through 1990 to arrange transport to the nearest designated hospital.

Source – Epidemiology Unit / Ministry of Health

Advice for pregnant women during the COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak

If you haven’t registered yourself for clinical services inform your family health service officer or medical officer of health of your status via phone

If you are 8 or more months pregnant (32 weeks) call your family health services officer and fix an appointment at the clinic

If you are less than 8 months pregnant (32 weeks) and you have the following symptoms call your family health services officer and inform them of your current health situation and obtain an appointment at the clinic

- diabetes - high blood pressure - heart ailments - respiratory issues - Any other symptoms or difficulties

Stay home as much as possible. Avoid unnecessary traveling’s, events, trips, shopping etc

For more information contact the 24-hour hotline 1999 or get in touch with your family health services officer.

Measures to be taken at Market place to prevent COVID-19

Maintain at least one meter distance between you and other customers when you standin a queue.

Wash your hands with soap or hand wash before entering the shop. It is scientifically proven that washing hands can successfully reduce the spread of virus.

Avoid touching nose and eyes for no reason. Thus the virus spreads.

If you have symptoms like fever, cold, cough, please do not go to the stores.

Buy what you need only. This is your national responsibility..

Give priority to old people while standing in queue at stores. They are more likely to be seriously sick by Covid-19 virus than others.

Measures to be taken at Workplace to prevent COVID-19

We spend more time at work places. So we need to care more about how to protect places that work against covid-19 Follow these instructions to keep your work safe.

1. If anyone shows light symptoms such as fever, cough or cold, advise him not to go to work until it is fully healed. If possible, encourage me to work from home.

2. Clean the equipment used by more than one person like door handles, phone receivers, table surface, stapler.

3. Wash your hands well often using soap. Avoid touching your face, mouth, nose and eyes. Covid-19 virus is usually spread through contact.

4. Avoid increasing the crowd as much as possible. Snooze meetings and follow modern communication methods such as video conferencing and group calling

If you reduce the chance to spread the corona virus at your workplace, you may also reduce the chance of immune to your beloved family members.

List of hospitals for COVID-19 Treatment

Advice for patients on treatment for Non-communicable diseases during COVID-19 outbreak

(High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, High Cholesterol, Heart Diseases, Stroke, Thyroid diseases, Long term Respiratory diseases and Liver Diseases)

COVID-19 virus is spreading globally, and Sri Lanka is affected as well. Patients suffering from chronic NCDs are at a higher risk of acquiring the diseases and developing associated complications.

Please continue your routine medications as prescribed.

Please send a responsible person with the relevant documents to collect your medications from the medical clinic of your hospital.

If you are unable to visit the medical clinic on the given day, please visit the OPD to get your medication prescribed on another weekday.

Please try to maintain at least 1-meter distance between each other.

If you have any respiratory symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath) please contact nearest hospital or 117 (special COVID-19 helpline). If you have reason to suspect you have got COVID-19 infection (above symptoms and recent foreign travel or contact with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patient) please contact the closest designated COVID-19 treatment center, and do not directly visit the medical clinic

Emergency care will be provided as usual for the Non- communicable diseases related emergencies at hospitals.

If you are under self-quarantine, please contact your area medical officer of health (MOH)/ Public Health Inspector (PHI) to get your routine NCD medications.

Current evidence supports that the smokers and alcohol consumers are at high risk of complications due to COVID-19. Please refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption. Additionally, it is recommended to be physically active, consume healthy food and maintain hydration at optimum level.

PCR Testing Laboratories for COVID-19

An interim review of the epidemiological characteristics

Clinical characteristics of novel corona virus

Effectiveness of airport screening at detecting travellers

Incubation period of 2019 novel coronavirus (2019- nCoV) infections among travellers from Wuhan, China, 20–28 January 20206).

Epidemiological research priorities for public health control of the ongoing global novel coronavirus (2019- nCoV) outbreak.

Download IEC materials for Pre Schools

IPC guideline - ECD centres (English)

IPC guideline - ECD centres (Sinhala)

IPC guideline - ECD centres (Tamil)

Preschool parents brochure (Sinhala)

Preschool parents brochure (Tamil)

Adjusting to new normal - Sinhala

Adjusting to new normal - tamil, hand washing video for preschools (sinhala) new, hand washing video for preschools (tamil) new.

School COVID Leaflet(Sinhala)

School COVID Presentation(Sinhala)

COVID-19 Updates

Update on post mortem diagnosis disposal and reporting of covid 19 related deaths-02-03-2022.

Update on Post-mortem Diagnosis, Disposal and Reporting of COVId-19 related deaths 02 03 2022 ...

Press Release controlled relaxation of public and work activities from 16-Dec to 31-Dec-2021

Press Release Controlled relaxation of public and work activities from 16 Dec to 31 Dec 2021 ...

Travel restrictions lift for several African countries, no PCR required for travellers below 12 – Health Services Director-General (11-12-2021)

Health Guidline - Correction ...

Travel Restriction for Travellers from South African Countries (27-11-2021)

Travel Restriction for Travellers from South African Countries_20211127 ...

Quarantine Measures for travelers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID19 (25-11-2021)

Quarantine Measures for Travellers arraiving from Overseas 20211025 (1) ...

Quarantine Measures for travelers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID19 (03-10-2021)

amendments 03 Oct 2021 ...

Quarantine Measures for travelers arriving from overseas during the pandemic of COVID19 (28-09-2021)

Quarantine Measures for Travellers_2021-09-28 ...

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Dial 1990 and ask for an ambulance. 

Alternatively, contact the Accident Service at Colombo General Hospital on 011 269 1111.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccinations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip check: 

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Sri Lanka guide  
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page  

All regions of Sri Lanka experience outbreaks of the mosquito-borne dengue fever. Take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes . 

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro . 

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad . 

Healthcare facilities in Sri Lanka 

Emergency medical treatment outside main cities is not readily available and you may have to be brought to Colombo for treatment. Treatment in private hospitals can be expensive and the options for repatriation to the UK or neighbouring countries in an emergency are limited and very expensive. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. 

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Sri Lanka . 

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro . 

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Sri Lanka travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: May 1, 2024 08:28 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, sri lanka - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka due to the economic crisis which has led to shortages of basic necessities including fuel, food and medicines.

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Current economic situation

Sri Lanka is experiencing economic difficulties which may result in limited availability of resources, including basic necessities like medicines, fuel and specific food items. Power outages, though infrequent, may occur.

The fragile economic situation may also impact public services, including healthcare. Limited access to resources can impact the security environment.

If you are in Sri Lanka:

• keep supplies of food, water and fuel in case of lengthy disruptions
• make sure to have sufficient supply of any required medicines on hand as availability may be limited
• check that your travel documents are up to date
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations occur frequently in Colombo, and occasionally elsewhere in the country. Security forces may use tear gas and water cannons during violent protests. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Security forces

The Sri Lankan military continues to maintain a strong presence in the country’s North and East, including the Jaffna Peninsula. Military and police checkpoints can be established and road closures can occur suddenly.

Security forces have wide-ranging powers, including the authority to:

• impose curfews
• detain without charge for extended periods
• search individuals, vehicles, residences and commercial premises

Individuals of Sri Lankan heritage, including those who don’t have Sri Lankan citizenship, have been detained on occasion by police or security forces. 

• Always carry formal photographic identification with you
• Keep an eye out for signage warning of military or demining zones
• Keep to well-traveled roads
• Avoid venturing in forested areas or abandoned properties
• Monitor local news for latest updates
• If you’re detained, ask the authorities to contact the High Commission of Canada

There is a threat of terrorism. Past attacks have resulted in fatalities.

Further attacks can’t be ruled out. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Violent crime occurs, including harassment and assault aimed at Western foreigners.

Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially on public transportation. Theft has occurred in hotels and guesthouses.

Credit card fraud is common. Pay very close attention to your credit card when it is being handled. To minimize risks, you should opt to pay in cash whenever possible.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Inter-communal tensions

Inter-communal and religious tensions exist throughout the country and have led to violence. Further violent incidents could occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, often combined with sexual assault or theft. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Women’s safety

Women are often the target for unwanted attention. They should exercise caution when travelling alone.

Advice for women travellers

Swimming conditions may be unsafe. Follow the advice and warnings of local authorities.

Water safety abroad

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities are widely available but quality varies, especially inland. You should arrange travel to remote areas through a reputable travel agency.

Road safety

Road conditions are usually poor outside major cities.

Road accidents, often causing death and injuries, are common due to poorly maintained vehicles, erratic driving practices and pedestrians and roaming animals on the road.

Roads may be closed on short notice.

Public transportation

Travel by bus is generally unsafe due to aggressive drivers and the risk of theft.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Sri Lankan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Sri Lanka.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required  Business visa: required  Student visa: required  Work visa: required

For stays of up to 30 days, you can apply online for a tourist visa. You can obtain all other visas at a Sri Lankan government office in Canada or abroad.

Visas may be extended at Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.

You cannot convert a visa status once in Sri Lanka. Non-compliance with visa restrictions may result in deportation.

You will also need to fill out an online arrival card. You can complete the online form three days before arriving in Sri Lanka.

• Apply for the Electronic Travel Authority - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration
• Arrival Card form - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration

Special permissions

Journalists and media crews need permission to travel to some northern districts.

Entry into Sri Lankan waters, at any point, requires prior permission.

Other requirements

An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to sustain you while you are in the country are required to visit Sri Lanka.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 8 April, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities do not meet the standards you might normally expect in Canada. 

Medical facilities in certain areas outside of Colombo are limited, particularly in the north. In the event of a major accident or illness, medical evacuation is often necessary. Medical transport is very expensive.

Medical facilities may require confirmation of insurance coverage, guarantee of payment or an up-front deposit before admitting patients.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.

Alcohol consumption in public places is prohibited.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, workplaces and on public transport. Use designated smoking areas.

Exporting antiques without a proper licence is illegal.

Photography

Photographing and videotaping government and military installations, as well as in any designated high-security zone, is prohibited.

Dress and behaviour

Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions and artefacts to avoid offending local sensitivities. Posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha is a serious offence, punishable by a fine or an arrest. Tattoos, jewellery and clothing associated with Buddhism are considered offensive and may lead to fines, arrest or deportation.

Identification

Carry official identification at all times.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sri Lanka.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Traffic drives on the left.

Checkpoints may be set up. Carry personal identification at all times and comply with government and security force instructions.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sri Lanka.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sri Lanka, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Sri Lanka.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sri Lanka, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Sri Lankan court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sri Lanka to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).

Credit cards are widely accepted in major urban and tourist centres. You may encounter difficulties in making Visa and MasterCard cash withdrawals. There are ATMs in major cities, but some do not accept international cards.

Monsoon and rainstorms

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from December to March in the northeast and June to October in the southwest.

Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides, which can lead to deaths, injuries and large population displacements.

• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Weather forecasts - Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology
• Disaster warnings and weather reports – Sri Lankan Disaster Management Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Sri Lanka is located in an active seismic zone and may be prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 119 / 118
• tourist police: 94 (11) 242 1052
• medical assistance: 110
• firefighters: 94 (11) 242 2222

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka in Colombo and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

TRAVEL SUPPORT

Travel requirements by destination

All destinations.

Afghanistan

Covid-19 testing requirements.

All passengers above the age of 8 years old are required to hold a negative COVID-19 PCR test conducted maximum 96 hours prior to departure.

Travel to and from Dubai

If you're travelling to, from or transiting through Dubai, please check our Travel requirements for Dubai. (Opens page in the same tab)

List of laboratories

This is a recommended list of authorised COVID-19 test laboratories in Dubai (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  where you can get tested before you travel to your destination.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories in each of our current destinations (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT PCR test.

Search and book flights

Latest updates

All restrictions lifted starting 01 November 2022

Mask requirements

Masks are required on board and at the airport in your destination.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories in each of our current destinations (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT-PCR test.

If you're travelling to, from or transiting through Dubai, please check our Travel requirements for Dubai (Opens page in the same tab) .

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Angola. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Travel from Angola

Passengers are advised to ensure they meet all travel requirements for the countries of their final/transit destinations.

If you're traveling to, from or transiting through Dubai, please check our Travel requirements for Dubai (Opens page in the same tab) .

Travel eligibility

Travel from argentina.

This is a recommended list of authorised COVID‑19 test laboratories in Dubai (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  where you can get tested before you travel to your destination.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  in each of our current destinations. You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID‑19 RT PCR test..

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Australia. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Austria. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Bahrain. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are changes to the required documents for travel to Bangladesh.

Masks are required on board and in the airport at your destination.

Visa-on-arrival services for nationals of the following countries are now available at Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka:

• United States of America
• All GCC countries
• All European countries

New Zealand

• Russian Federation
• South Korea

Read through the guideline for all arriving passengers on the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh portal (Opens an external website in a new tab)  .

Passengers who are not fully vaccinated must have a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test certificate for a test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Children under 12 years old are exempt from the COVID-19 PCR test requirement but must follow the requirements that apply to their accompanying family members.

Please refer to the Vaccination requirements section for more details.

Vaccination requirements

Vaccinated passengers

Travelers who have received the required doses (single/double dose) of a WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccine and carry a valid vaccination certificate are not required to present a pre-departure COVID-19 test certificate to enter Bangladesh.

Unvaccinated passengers

Travelers who have not received the required doses (single/double dose) of a COVID-19 vaccine must present a COVID-19 RT-PCR test certificate for a test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Required documents

The Online Health Declaration Form (HDF) is no longer required for travel to Bangladesh.

Travel from Bangladesh

Passengers must follow the COVID-19 PCR testing requirements of their destination and present the test result certificate at check-in. The COVID-19 PCR test certificate must be issued by approved hospitals or organizations (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  .

This is a recommended list of authorized COVID-19 test laboratories in Dubai (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  where you can get tested before you travel to your destination.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT PCR test.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Belgium. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to Brazil. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Before you travel, please ensure you understand the requirements for travel to Canada (Opens an external website in a new tab)  .

While travelers will no longer have to submit their quarantine and vaccination information through ArriveCAN, they can continue to use the optional Advance Declaration feature in ArriveCAN (free as a mobile app or on the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website) to save time at the airport by submitting their customs and immigration declaration in advance of arrival. 

Download the ArriveCAN app here (Opens an external website in a new tab)  .

Travel from Canada

If you're traveling to or transiting through Dubai, please check the travel requirements for Dubai , the requirements of your final destination, and the departure requirements below set by the Canadian government.

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to China. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

From 7 March 2022, fully vaccinated passengers are not required to take a pre departure COVID 19 test for travel to Cote d’Ivoire.

Passengers who are not fully vaccinated, except children under below 12 years old, travelling to Abidjan from any country must have a valid printed negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate for a test taken not more than 72 hours before arrival. A certificate from any government approved laboratory is acceptable.

All arriving passengers are required to undergo a free COVID-19 antigen testing upon arrival.

Travel from Cote d’Ivoire

All departing passengers who require a COVID-19 PCR test for their final destination must conduct the test at a government designated laboratory. From 20 September 2021 the COVID‑19 PCR certificate must include a QR code.

The COVID-19 test cost is 25,000 FCFA payable online.

Passengers travelling from Abidjan must take the required pre-departure tests at designated testing centres approved by Institute Pasteur.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Cyprus. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Wearing face masks is recommended on all flights to and from Cyprus, as well in all indoor areas while in Cyprus.

Czech Republic

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Czech Republic. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Denmark. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Travel rules for Dubai residents

Follow the latest travel advice for residents travelling to and from Dubai (Opens page in the same tab) . The information changes frequently so please check back before you travel.

Travel rules for tourists

Follow the latest travel advice for tourists travelling to, through and from Dubai (Opens page in the same tab) . The information changes frequently so please check back before you travel.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Egypt. Passengers are no longer required to hold a COVID 19 vaccination certificate or a COVID 19 test result to enter the country. Quarantine restrictions have also been lifted.

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to Ethiopia.

Visa-on-arrival services are available for eligible passengers provided they apply for OK-to-board approval before traveling to Ethiopia.

Exemptions:

• Transfer passengers
• Passengers with sticker visas
• E-visas with a confirmation page showing the passenger details along with a photo of the passenger will be accepted
• A visa on arrival will only be granted to passengers who were born in Ethiopia, whose passport states Ethiopia as their place of birth
• Children of Ethiopian nationals or Residence Card holders who are traveling with their parents, who will be allowed to enter the country with a visa on arrival eligibility or if they have a pre-issued sticker or e-visa
• Passengers with Africa Union IDs or Diplomatic IDs issued by the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, given the ID is valid
• Passengers with Ethiopian Origin ID

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to France. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Germany. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Travel from Ghana

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Greece. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

From 25 June 2022, arriving and departing passengers will no longer be required to complete a health declaration form.

From 13 March 2022, all nationalities are allowed entry into Guinea provided they complete the following requirements on arrival.

Passengers who are fully vaccinated must present proof that they have complete the required doses of the any of the following vaccines:

• Astra Zeneca
• Sinopharm and Sinovac
• Johnson & Johnson

Fully vaccinated passengers are not required to present a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test.

Passengers unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate for a test taken not more than 72 hours before travel.

Travellers who present a COVID-19 recovery certificate dated less than six months are not required to present a vaccination certificate on arrival.

Passengers between the ages of 5 and 18 years are exempt from the vaccination requirement but must take a PCR test not more than 72 hours before entry into Conakry.

Any passenger who presents symptoms of COVID 19 (e.g. fever, cough, difficulty breathing, sneezing, poor general condition, etc.) on arrival will undergo a standard diagnostic test (PCR) and be isolated while waiting for the test results. If found positive for COVID 19, the traveller will be treated at a dedicated processing centre.

Hong Kong, China

Effective March 1, 2023, travelers are no longer required to wear masks on board flights to Hong Kong and at Hong Kong International Airport.

Please visit the official website (Opens an external website in a new tab)  for more details. 

Please check the government website  for eligibility and mandatory quarantine requirements before you travel to Hong Kong.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Hungary. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Effective February 13, 2023 (11:00 a.m. IST), travelers may be subject to random COVID-19 PCR testing on arrival in India.

Effective February 13, 2023 (IST 11:00 a.m.), pre-departure COVID-19 testing and registration on the Air Suvidha portal are no longer required for passengers traveling from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Republic of Korea, Singapore and Thailand.

However, all travelers arriving in India are subject to random COVID-19 testing on arrival at the airport.

Vaccination and Satu Sehat Apps are no longer mandatory requirements.

Masks are optional on board and at the airport in your destination.

The following categories of passengers are exempt from the entry restriction:

• Indonesian nationals
• Non-Indonesian nationals holding diplomatic visa and official visa
• Non-Indonesian nationals holding limited stay permit (ITAS) and permanent stay permit (ITAP)
• Non-Indonesian nationals holding diplomatic stay permit and official stay permit
• Non-Indonesian nationals holding visit visas
• Non-Indonesian nationals holding limited stay visas
• Non-Indonesian nationals holding Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) business travel card
• Foreign nationals from 92 territories who are eligible for visa on arrival services and who are visiting Indonesia for tourism purposes

International to international transit/transfer through Jakarta (CGK) airport is now allowed for a maximum of 6 hours. International to domestic transfer is allowed and travelers must present all entry requirements at the first port of entry. 

International to international transit or transfer through Denpasar (DPS) airport is now allowed for a maximum of eight hours. Between 2:00 a.m. -7:00 p.m. (LT), the airport closure period, international to international transit or transfer passengers must clear CIQ and must fulfill DPS entry requirements.

Visa-free entry or visa on arrival is only allowed through CGK, DPS, KNO, SUB, UPG, MDC, YIA, BTH, LOP, PDG, BPN, PKU, KJT, DJJ and BTJ.

Visa-free entry for tourists only applies to citizens of South East Asian countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam.

Visa on arrival for tourists only applies to nationals of 92 territories: Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland Republic, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau SAR, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Monaco, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Palestine, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Romania, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, San Marino, Seychelles, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom (British citizens only), United States of America, Uzbekistan, Vatican and Vietnam.

Passengers who have the following types of British passports are not eligible for visa on arrival services:

• British Overseas Territories Citizen
• British National (Overseas)
• British Overseas Citizen
• British Subject
• British Protected Person

All eligible foreign nationals can apply for an e-visa on arrival (E-VOA) and pay the visa fees online before traveling to Indonesia at https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ (Opens an external website in a new tab) 

Passengers who are eligible for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival can stay for 30 days and must comply with the following requirements:

• Minimum six months passport validity
• Return or onward ticket
• Visa-on-arrival fee of IDR 500,000
• Sufficient funds
• Tourists can stay a maximum of 30 days and request a one-time extension for another 30 days at the nearest immigration office.
• Exit Indonesia from any immigration checkpoint
• Visa-free entry and/or a visa on arrival cannot be exchanged for a resident visa

Foreign nationals who have an emergency passport, temporary passport, travel document or laissez passer are not eligible for visa on arrival services.

Foreign nationals from countries not specified can visit Indonesia by applying for a visit visa or limited stay visa before arrival.

Visit visa and limited stay visa can apply to the following purposes:

A. Visit Visa

• Tourism purposes
• Emergency work activity
• Business discussion
• Purchase of items
• Film activity
• Food, medical and humanitarian support
• Governmental duty including G20 activity or international meetings 144th Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU)
• Joining ship in Indonesia territory
• Marine industry development
• Foreign worker candidate trial on the ability to work

B. Limited Stay Visa

• As an expert staff
• Gather together to work on ships, float equipment or installation operated in Indonesian territory and Economic Exclusive Zone Indonesia
• Quality control of items or production
• Inspection or audit of branch office in Indonesia
• After-sales activity
• Installing or repairing a machine
• Non-permanent construction work
• Undertaking a film production for commercial purposes and has been approved by the appropriate authorities
• Foreign workers on a skills trial
• Visa index C313 (non-work purpose): foreign investment for period of 1 year
• Visa index C314 (non-work purpose): foreign investment for period of 2 years
• Visa index C316 (non-work purpose): study / education
• Visa index C317 (non-work purpose): family reunion

Guarantors must apply for visit visas and limited stay visas online (Opens an external website in a new tab)  to the Directorate General of Immigration based on the visit purposes.

Visit visas and limited stay visas are granted by the Director General of Immigration in the form of an electronic visa (eVisa). Visit visas with an eVisa Number ending in DN cannot be used for entry, as this code is for a visa extension for foreign nationals who have entered Indonesia and are currently staying in Indonesia (On Shore Visa). Visit visa numbers to enter Indonesia should end with LN (Off Shore Visa).

Diplomatic visa and official visa are regulated by Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Holders of diplomatic and service passports from 91 countries (Opens an external website in a new tab)  can enter Indonesia with the free visa facility if the visit purpose of the visit is related to diplomatic or official visits with supporting documents:

• Carrying a diplomatic duty note or visit statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Republic Indonesia and or foreign state ministry
• Invitation letter issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Republic Indonesia for those attending meetings and or conferences in Indonesia

All passengers arriving in Indonesia must also complete the electronic Customs Declaration form https://ecd.beacukai.go.id/ 

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Iran. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Entry to Iran is allowed only for Iranian nationals and foreign nationals who have any of the following:

• Residence permit
• Entry visa (merchants)
• Work permit visa;
• Medical visa
• Investment visa
• Exit and return stamp from Iran Immigration

Eligible passengers must apply for the Entry Visa online and receive approval before traveling to Iran.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Iraq. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Passengers holding a paper visa and one-way or return tickets require OK-to-board approval. To get OK-to-board approval, they must submit copies of their passport, flight booking reference and visa 48 hours before their date of travel. The required documents must be submitted to:

• Baghdad: [email protected]
• Basra: [email protected]

The following passengers can travel to Iraq without OK-to-board approval:

• Passengers holding a valid sticker visa

All passengers who have recently traveled to or through Bangladesh will not be allowed entry to Basra.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Ireland. Passengers are no longer required to hold a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate, COVID‑19 test result or complete the Passenger Locator Form.

Travel from Ireland

Emirates passengers can undergo COVID 19 testing at the following facilities.

Emirates passengers can undergo COVID 19 testing at the following facilities. Find the testing facility closest to you and present your Emirates ticket or booking confirmation. You should receive your test results within 96 hours after the sample is taken. Emirates is not liable for the samples, their transfer and analysis as carried out under the full responsibility of these laboratories, nor for any delay in the release of test results.

• RDT Care (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Randox Health (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Travel Health (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Vida care (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Liffey Medical (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Better2know (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Tropical Medical Bureau (Opens an external website in a new tab) 

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to Israel. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Italy. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Japan. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any testing, vaccination or quarantine requirements.

All passengers must register on the Visit Jordan portal (Opens an external website in a new tab)  prior to departure and complete the required form to get a QR code. The QR code must be presented at check-in and to authorities on arrival in Jordan.

Exceptions:

• Jordanian passengers and their families, spouses and children regardless of their nationalities
• Transit passengers
• Diplomats and employees of regional and international organisations as well as their dependents and family members with a special and/or normal passport who are residing in Jordan and who have a permanent QR code with an indefinite validity that can be used to return to Jordan on several trips

This is a recommended list of authorised COVID-19 test laboratories in Dubai (Opens a PDF in a new tab) i  where you can get tested before you travel to your destination.

All passengers who require visas should apply for and obtain an e-visa before traveling to Kenya. The e-visa can be obtained through this website (Opens page in a new tab)  . Minors under 16 years of age are exempt from the visa requirement.

Passengers holding Refugee or Alien travel documents must have a visa at all times.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT-PCR test.

Korea, Republic of

From March 1, 2023, all passengers are requested to upload their health questionnaire information on the  Q-Code location (Opens an external website in a new tab)   or complete the Health Questionnaire (yellow form) before arrival for quarantine inspection.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Kuwait. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Lebanon. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

This is a recommended list of authorised COVID-19 test laboratories in Dubai (Opens a PDF in a new tab) (Opens an external website in a new tab)  where you can get tested before you travel to your destination.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories in each of our current destinations (Opens a PDF in a new tab) (Opens an external website in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT-PCR test.

There are no longer any COVID 19 entry restrictions for travel to Malaysia. Passengers are no longer required to hold a COVID 19 vaccination certificate or a COVID 19 test result to enter the country. Quarantine restrictions have also been lifted.

Malaysian International boarders are open and, passengers can travel to Malaysia provided they comply with the Entry Visa requirements. For further details, please refer to Visa Services (Opens page in a new tab)  on The Official Portal of Malaysian Immigration Department  (Opens page in a new tab) 

Visa On Arrival services is partially suspended. Passengers must refer to the Malaysian Embassy in their respective country of departure to confirm VOA eligibility.

Other information

International and domestic transfer passengers 

• Transit passengers must follow the requirements of the carrier and final destination.
• Flight itinerary must be planned with the shortest connecting flights, and transit time must not be more than 24 hours.
• Passengers arriving at Kuala Lumpur international Airport (KLIA)* and connecting to an international flight departing from KLIA 2 must complete the requirements for travel to Malaysia as they must clear immigration and collect their luggage (not applicable to pre-approved charter operations) *Emirates operates from Kuala Lumpur International Airport KLIA, also known as KLIA1 or MTB.

The following are some of airlines Operating from KLIA2.*

• FD Thai Air Asia
• Z2 Philippine AirAsia
• D7 Air Asia X
• 5J Cebu Pacific
• QZ Indonesia Air Asia
• AK Air Asia
• 3K Jet Star
• TR Scoot International

* Passengers must check with their onward carrier to verify which terminal they operate from

There are changes to the required documents for travel to the Maldives.

Passengers traveling to the Maldives must complete the online Traveler Declaration Form (Opens an external website in a new tab)   within 96 hours before arrival in the Maldives, obtain a QR code and present it at the time of check-in at the airport.

Passengers traveling to the Maldives as tourists must have a confirmed hotel reservation for their stay at registered tourist facilities.

Travel from Maldives

Passengers traveling from Maldives must confirm the COVID-19 PCR test requirements of their destination country and present the test result certificate at check-in. Please contact your resort’s guest relations department for assistance with COVID-19 PCR testing, if required.

Passengers traveling from Maldives must complete the online  Traveler Declaration Form (Opens an external website in a new tab)   within 96 hours before their flight’s departure. Obtain a QR code and present it to the officials at the entrance to check in, and to Immigration officers on departure.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Malta. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

The UAE government has specified designated laboratories in each of our current destinations (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT-PCR test. 

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Mauritius. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination and quarantine.

To facilitate arrival process, passengers are encouraged to complete the arrival form on www.safemauritius.govmu.org (Opens an external website in a new tab)  .

Masks are not required on board or while at the airport.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Mexico. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Wearing face masks is optional on board flights and inside airport terminals. However, travelers are advised to wear them in confined spaces.

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to Morocco. Passengers are no longer required to hold a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate or a COVID‑19 test result, or to complete the Passenger Locator Form.

Netherlands

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to the Netherlands. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Requirements for travel to a specific city or region

Travelers can now complete a New Zealand Traveler Declaration if they are flying into Christchurch, Wellington or Queenstown. Effective late August, travelers will be able to complete a New Zealand Traveler Declaration if they are flying into Auckland. For details, please visit the official website. (Opens an external website in a new tab)   

For more information and assistance, you can email or call the NZTD Contact Center (Opens an external website in a new tab)  , available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

• +64 4 931 5799 – for international callers (please note that charges may apply from your service provider) 
• 0800 359 269 – toll-free number for New Zealand-based callers 
• 1800 359 269 – toll-free number for Australia-based callers

Travelers arriving at New Zealand international airports now have the option to complete a digital declaration instead of a paper Passenger Arrival Card before traveling to New Zealand. Find out more 

Home/New Zealand Travel Declaration 

There are no longer any COVID-19 testing, vaccination and quarantine requirements for travel to Nigeria. There are changes to the required documents.

Masks are optional on board and at the destination airport.

Passengers are required to complete the Health Questionnaire Form (Opens an external website in a new tab)  before departure or upon arrival.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Norway. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Oman. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Pakistan.

Philippines

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Poland. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Portugal. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID 19 testing, vaccination and quarantine requirements for entry to Russia. Foreign nationals must complete the entry form provided on board.

Passengers may be subject to selective COVID-19 testing upon arrival.

Travel from Russia

Foreign passengers must complete arrival forms which are distributed on board.

Saudi Arabia

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to Saudi Arabia. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Only passengers who meet the following conditions will be allowed on flights to Senegal.

• Residents of countries that are not affected by the temporary restriction of non-essential movement to Senegal or have not imposed restrictions on the movement of Senegal nationals
• Nationals of member states of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) and from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
• EU citizens
• Third-country nationals regularly established in Senegal and holding a residence permit issued by the competent services of the Republic of Senegal

Passengers holding a Seychelles passport must be allowed to board without any additional checks or requirements. They are exempt from obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). It is crucial to uphold their constitutional right of return, ensuring their unrestricted travel to Seychelles.

Passengers who hold dual citizenship with Seychelles and are traveling with a passport issued by a country other than Seychelles are exempt from the eTA requirement. However, they must provide documentation confirming their Seychelles nationality for verification purposes. Once the necessary documentation is provided, they should receive an “Ok to Board” message.

All other foreign passport holders must complete the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) process before departure. They can obtain the eTA at https://seychelles.govtas.com/ 

This is a  recommended list of authorized COVID-19 test laboratories in Dubai (Opens a PDF in a new tab)   where you can get tested before you travel to your destination.

The UAE government has specified  designated laboratories in each of our current destinations (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  . You can either use the recommended laboratories in the list or any trusted and certified laboratories in your country of origin to get your COVID-19 RT-PCR test.

From February 13, 2023, there are no longer any COVID-19 testing, vaccination or quarantine requirements for entry to Singapore.

All passengers traveling to Singapore must comply with the current public health and entry requirements. 

Passengers who have no travel history to any country or region classified by the Singapore Ministry of Health as a Restricted Category country or region in the last seven days before travel to Singapore will not be required to serve a Stay-Home Notice (SHN) upon entering Singapore, regardless of the passenger’s vaccination status. Such passengers will also no longer be subject to any COVID-19 testing, whether pre-departure or in Singapore. Similarly, every flight into Singapore may carry unvaccinated passengers.

As of February 9, 2023, there are no countries/regions in the Restricted Category.

Effective April 26, 2022, fully vaccinated passengers traveling to Singapore will not be required to undergo pre-departure testing, except for non-Malaysian Work Permit Holders (WPHs) holding an In-Principle Approval (IPA) in the Construction, Marine Shipyard and Process (CMP) sectors.

• All other unvaccinated or partially vaccinated passengers flying to Singapore must present a negative certificate for COVID-19 Antigen Rapid test (ART) or COVID-19 PCR test taken within 2 days before departure to Singapore 
• There are no on-arrival tests required for all passengers 
• Passengers scheduled to transit in Singapore will no longer be required to take a pre-departure test or further COVID-19 tests upon arrival.

Requirements for the COVID-19 Antigen Rapid test (ART) or Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test certificate:

• A COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test must be taken at, and issued by an internationally accredited or recognized laboratory, clinic or medical facility specified on the Singapore Ministry of Health website
• Administered by a trained professional including a medical professional or government-recognized trained professional in the country or regional of departure, or
• For eligible travelers, a self-administered test that is remotely supervised by an approved ART provider in Singapore
• Must be in English
• Test result
• Date that the test was taken
• Name of the passenger as stated in their passport and at least one other personal identifier, such as the date of birth or passport number
• Self-swabs are not allowed

The COVID-19 PCR and ART test requirement does not apply to:

• A fully vaccinated passenger 
• Children 12 years old and under in this calendar year 
• Passengers who have been given an exemption by a relevant Singapore government agency 
• A transfer or transit passenger who is not seeking entry into Singapore
• Medical discharge memo issued by the relevant state authority or licensed medical professional; OR
• Result of a positive COVID-19 PCR Test administered at an internationally accredited or recognized lab/clinic/medical facility; OR
• Result of a positive antigen rapid test (ART) administered by a trained professional 
• States their name, and at least one other personal identifier such as the date of birth or passport number matching the information on their passport used for entry into Singapore
• States their date of infection or the discharge date, which must be between 7 and 90 days before the scheduled date of departure for the flight to Singapore
• Passengers who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated who can present a positive COVID-19 PCR test or professionally administered ART result taken between 14 and 90 days before the scheduled date of departure of the flight to Singapore or a discharge letter that:
• States their date of infection or the discharge date, which must be between 14 and 90 days before the scheduled date of departure for the flight to Singapore
• Is issued by a relevant state authority or licensed medical professional
• Passengers who have been given an exemption by a relevant Singapore government agency

Prior to travel, please check this list of accepted COVID-19 vaccinations for entry  .

Passengers vaccinated in Singapore can present their vaccination status in any of the accepted formats:

• Vaccination certificate
• Vaccination status as shown in the HealthHub or TraceTogether app.

For passengers vaccinated outside of Singapore, any of the following proof of vaccination formats will be accepted: 

• Digitally verifiable vaccination certificate; OR
• Name (per travel document used for entry)
• At least one other personal identifier, e.g. date of birth or passport number (per travel document used for entry)
• Country of vaccination
• Name of vaccine(s) administered, i.e. different names for different vaccine type
• Vaccination date(s)

The vaccination requirements for entry do not apply to travelers below 13 years old at the time of arrival (i.e., aged 12 and below by year of birth)

Pass holders who cannot be vaccinated due to special considerations will be issued with an exemption letter by a Singapore Government Agency and must present this at check-in.

All work pass holders, Student’s Pass holders, their dependents, and holders of an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter must be fully vaccinated to enter Singapore. This includes passengers with travel history to all countries/regions, including Category I and II.

Effective February 1, 2022, 12.01am (Singapore time), all Work Pass holders, Student’s Pass holders and their dependents, and holders of an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter entering Singapore must present one of the following proofs of vaccination at check-in:

• an acceptance letter issued by the Safe Travel Office (STO) confirming that the traveler’s vaccination certificate has been verified using the Vaccination Check Portal or
• Traveler’s name as stated on the passport
• At least 1 other personal identifier (e.g. date of birth or passport number), corresponding exactly to the information in the traveler’s passport used for entry into Singapore
• Name of vaccine(s) administered (if more than 1 dose, the name of each vaccine administered) and
• Vaccination date(s) (if more than 1 dose, the date each dose was administered). Passengers must complete their vaccination at least 14 days before entering Singapore.
• Vaccination status updated on the HealthHub (Opens an external website in a new tab)  or TraceTogether (Opens an external website in a new tab)  app

All travelers must submit their  Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) (Opens an external website in a new tab)  within three days before arrival in Singapore. If passengers have not submitted their SGAC before departure, air operators should advise them to do so to facilitate a smooth arrival process in Singapore. 

Please note that there are no fees for completing the SGAC online.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated passengers arriving as of August 29, 2022, will no longer be required to serve a Stay-Home Notice (SHN) order, nor be subject to an exit-SHN COVID-19 PCR test.

To avoid tests and quarantine, travelers must fulfill the public health requirements. Travelers who cannot meet the public health requirements and refuse any test(s) and/or quarantine may be turned away from Singapore.

Yellow fever vaccination:

If you have visited any country at risk of Yellow Fever transmission (Opens an external website in a new tab)  in the past six days before arrival in Singapore, you must present an International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever. 

Travelers who can’t present a yellow fever vaccination certificate must quarantine for up to six days on arrival. Quarantine also applies to those who are ineligible to receive the vaccination, e.g., children aged one year and under and individuals with contraindications.

South Africa

Travel from south africa.

Check-in will close promptly 60 minutes before departure to ensure on-time departures.

The use of masks is not mandatory.

COVID-19 testing and vaccination are no longer required for travel to Sri Lanka.

Wearing of face masks is optional.

Sri Lankan nationals / dual citizens who are traveling on Sri Lankan passports / Sri Lanka emergency travel document holders are allowed entry into Sri Lanka.

Foreign nationals are allowed entry to Sir Lanka if they have any of the following documents:

• Approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) (Opens an external website in a new tab) 
• Landing endorsement
• Residence visa

Visa on arrival is also available except for nationals of Afghanistan, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan and Syria, who must have an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) in advance to be accepted for travel to Sri Lanka.

There are no longer any COVID 19 entry restrictions for travel to Sudan. Passengers are no longer required to hold a COVID 19 vaccination certificate, COVID 19 test result or complete the Passenger Locator Form Quarantine restrictions have also been lifted.

Travel from Sudan

If you are travelling from Sudan, you must take a COVID-19 PCR test before departure according to the requirements of your final destination.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Sweden. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Switzerland

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Switzerland. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Taiwan, China

There are no longer any COVID‑19 entry restrictions for travel to Tanzania. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Thailand. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms.

Nationalities who are eligible for travel to Tunisia can now be accepted for travel, including nationalities who are eligible for visa on arrival services.

Passengers will be accepted based on meeting all requirements.

All non-resident passengers are required to have a return ticket. All non Tunisian residents (holding valid residence cards) are not required to have a return ticket.

Visa on arrival must be preapproved with an application submitted by the sponsor to Immigration HQ in Tunisia.

Travel from Tunisia

All passengers except Libyan nationals who are transiting through Tunisia to Libya should have an OK TO BOARD to be accepted on Emirates flights.

All passengers are advised to arrive at check in 4 hours before departure with all the correct documents required for their destination of travel.

Documents must be printed and soft copies will not be accepted.

Check-in counters will close 90 minutes prior to departure.

The boarding gate will open 60 minutes prior to departure.

Passengers are no longer required to undergo COVID-19 testing before traveling to Uganda.

Visa on arrival services in Uganda are suspended for majority of countries.

All travelers holding ordinary passports from countries whose citizens are required to have visas to enter Uganda will be required to apply for visas online (Opens an external website in a new tab)  prior to travel, and will receive an approved notification that they must print and carry with them as travel authorization.

Exempted countries are:

• Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Burundi, Comoros, Cuba, Cyprus, Eritrea, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Island, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Vanuatu, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Travel from Uganda

Before you travel from Uganda, check the rules for traveling to, from or transiting through Dubai.

Proof of vaccination may still be required for travel from Uganda, depending on the entry requirements of the country you will be visiting. Passengers are advised to bring proof of vaccination with them when traveling.

United Kingdom

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to the UK. This includes requirements for testing, vaccination, quarantine and entry forms. 

Visit the official website  for more information. 

Please also read the latest guidance  for people with COVID 19 and their contacts.

Travel from the United Kingdom

Before you travel from the UK, check the rules for traveling to, from or transiting through Dubai (Opens page in the same tab) from your point of origin.

Proof of vaccination may still be required for traveling abroad from the UK, depending on the entry requirements of the country you will be visiting. Passengers are advised to bring proof of vaccination with them when traveling.

Emirates has partnered with the following providers in the UK to offer you special COVID-19 testing rates:

Concepto Clinic, Randox

Find out more about our partners, the tests and special rates available (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  .

Before planning your trip to the UK, you must check the rules for transiting via Dubai from the countries you have visited.

If you are traveling between countries with different rules, you need to follow the most restrictive requirements.

This means that rules that are not otherwise mandated by the UK government for entry may therefore apply to your trip. This can include the following:

• Passengers who have been in or transited through certain countries may not be permitted to enter or transit via Dubai.
• Passengers transiting via Dubai from certain countries may be required to provide a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate for a test conducted at an approved facility within a defined number of hours before departure from their origin, regardless of vaccinated status. This can also include a second PCR test performed at the airport of origin only a few hours before departure.

United States

There are changes to the COVID-19 testing and quarantine requirements.

There are no longer any COVID-19 entry restrictions for travel to Vietnam. Passengers are no longer required to hold a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a COVID-19 test result to enter the country. Quarantine restrictions have also been lifted.

From 15 February 2022, Emirates is permitted to resume regular commercial flights into Vietnam. Passengers entering Vietnam must comply with current regulations on immigration, quarantine and disease control. All travellers are required to have the following applicable documents on hand on scheduled flights for entry:

• Visa, permanent residence card, temporary residence card, or valid visa exemption certificate

From 15 May 2022, a pre-departure COVID-19 RT‑PCR or RT‑LAMP test will no longer be required for entry into Vietnam.

Travelers must fill out a traveler’s health declaration form and present it on arrival in Zambia.

There are changes to travel eligibility and the COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements.

Passengers will be accepted for travel if they have a vaccination certificate or a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate for a test taken not more than 48 hours before departure for Zimbabwe.

Passengers who do not present a valid vaccination certificate or negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate will not be accepted for travel.

Passengers who are not fully vaccinated must have a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test taken not more than 48 hours from the time of departure for Zimbabwe. Children below 12 years old are exempt from the pre-departure COVID-19 testing requirement.

Returning residents who do not present a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate or a vaccination certificate will be required tested for COVID-19 on arrival at their own cost.

Fully vaccinated passengers are not required to take a pre-departure COVID-19 PCR test.

All vaccines will be accepted as long as you have received all the required doses before travel.

Passengers must complete the health declaration form (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  and the data entry form (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  .

Returning residents who do not present a valid negative PCR test certificate will be required to quarantine for 10 days at their own expense.

Tourists who do not present a valid negative PCR test certificate will be denied entry.

Travel from Zimbabwe

All passengers travelling from Zimbabwe except children below 12 years old must have a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate issued not more than 48 hours before departure or must be fully vaccinated and have a vaccination certificate.

• COVID-19 information hub

Sri Lanka Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Australia to Sri Lanka

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Open with restrictions

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Documents & Additional resources

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Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka from Australia?

Most visitors from Australia, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Sri Lanka.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Sri Lanka without restrictions.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Australia can enter Sri Lanka without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Sri Lanka?

Visitors from Australia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Sri Lanka.

Can I travel to Sri Lanka without quarantine?

Travellers from Australia are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Sri Lanka?

Mask usage in Sri Lanka is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Sri Lanka?

Restaurants in Sri Lanka are open with restrictions. Bars in Sri Lanka are .

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka due to the threat of public demonstrations, shortages of some imported medicines and security risks. 

Sri Lanka (PDF 204.19 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

In Colombo, you can also call (+94 11) 269 1111.

Call 118 or 119 or go to your local police station.

Tourist police

Call (+94 11) 242 1052 or (+94 11) 238 2209.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka.

• Public demonstrations can occur throughout Sri Lanka and may become violent. Avoid areas impacted by demonstrations. Demonstrations can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. 
• Public emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice. Carry relevant travel and identification documents with you at all times. 
• There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Sri Lanka.   Terrorists may target areas popular with foreigners and/or visited by tourists .
• There are shortages of some medicines in Sri Lanka. 
• Always carry travel and identification documents. Allow additional time to clear security checks, especially at airports.
• There are marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons in the Northern Province and parts of the Eastern Province. Stay on the main roads. Pay close attention to landmine warning signs.
• Crime, including sexual assault, harassment and robbery, can occur. If you're travelling alone, arrange travel through a reputable company.
• Scams and fraud are common, including credit card fraud, overcharging and fake goods. Be alert to fake goods, especially jewellery and gems. Check your bank statements often.
• Flooding and landslides occur during the monsoon season, from December to March in the northeast and May to October in the southwest. Be prepared to change your travel plans.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Dengue fever is a risk in Sri Lanka, with increased cases during the monsoon season. Use mosquito repellent. If you have a fever, seek medical help.
• Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis. Use mosquito and insect repellent. Get vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis before you travel.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Rabies is present in dogs, monkeys and bats.
• Medical services in Colombo are below Australian standards. Outside Colombo, they're limited. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this. Import delays may impact access to some medicines.

Full travel advice:  Health

Public Emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice.

• Carry relevant travel and photo identification documents with you at all times. If you don't, officials may detain you. It's illegal to cover your face in a way that prevents identification. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• Public demonstrations can occur throughout Sri Lanka. 
• The legal drinking age is 21. It is illegal to drink alcohol or smoke in public.
• Be careful when taking photos. You must not photograph or video inside High-Security Zones (HSZs). These include military sites, some government buildings and official residences. HSZs aren't always marked.
• Respect the local culture. It's illegal to mistreat Buddhist images. This includes posing for photos with Buddha statues or wearing tattoos, clothing or jewellery associated with Buddhism. Get local advice before photographing places of worship.
• Sri Lanka has conservative dress and behaviour standards. Take care not to offend. 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You'll need a visa in the form of an  Electronic Travel Authority  to enter Sri Lanka. 
• Sri Lanka has introduced  Digital Arrival & Departure Cards , which can be completed three days prior to travel. 
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate of Sri Lanka for the latest details.
• Airlines may require proof of certain vaccinations to travel. Check requirements with individual airlines prior to travel.
• Curfews may be implemented and travel restrictions imposed at short notice.
• The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Exchange Australian dollars at the airport or commercial banks in major centres. Most major towns and cities have ATMs, but not all accept international cards. Hotels and major shops accept credit cards.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Colombo .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Terrorism can occur anywhere  at any time.  There is an ongoing risk of terrorist attack in Sri Lanka. Be alert to possible threats. Take official warnings seriously .  Terrorists may target areas popular with foreigners and/or visited by tourists.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack:

• avoid crowded areas
• always be alert
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media and other sources

A terrorist attack on 21 April 2019 targeted prominent hotels and churches in the cities of Colombo, Negombo and Batticaloa. Over 250 people were killed, and more than 450 injured.

When you're travelling:

• carry travel and identification documents for any checkpoints
• allow additional time to clear security formalities
• be prepared to undergo increased security checks at  Bandaranaike International Airport

More information:

Civil unrest and political tension

Public demonstrations can occur throughout Sri Lanka and may become violent. Tear gas and water cannons may be used.

Demonstrations can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates. 

Public emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice. Carry relevant travel and photo identification documents with you at all times.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid all protests and large public gatherings
• monitor the news for planned or possible unrest
• obey curfews and seek local advice on safety and security
• follow the instructions of security personnel

If you're detained, ask to contact the Australian High Commission (see ' Local contacts ')

Security forces are visible, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces.

Military and police have wide-ranging powers and may:

• establish checkpoints or road closures without warning
• impose curfews
• detain people without charge for long periods
• search people, vehicles, homes or commercial premises

Authorities may apply travel restrictions for foreigners without notice.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons remain in some areas. Most are in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Most of the Eastern Province has been cleared but some isolated areas remain uncleared.

There are marked and unmarked minefields and unexploded weapons in the Northern Province and parts of the Eastern Province. Stay on main roads. Pay close attention to landmine warning signs.

Pickpocketing, bag snatching and other petty crime are risks. Be careful of theft in crowds and these locations:

• sporting events
• public transport
• hotels and guesthouses

Female travellers 

Women may experience unwanted attention. Sexual harassment and assault are risks. Take care in:

• areas popular with foreigners
• public buses
• 3-wheeled vehicles (tuk-tuks)

Avoid unlit areas and places away from crowds, including city streets, village lanes and beaches.

The following crimes have also been reported:

• verbal harassment
• physical advances
• drink-spiking

To protect yourself:

• keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas
• don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers
• don't leave your drinks unattended
• if you aren't sure if a drink is safe, leave it
• stick with people you trust at parties and in bars, nightclubs and taxis

If you're a solo traveller, arrange your trip through travel agents with a good reputation. 

More information: 

• Advice for women travellers 

Scams and fraud

Scams  and fraud are a problem, such as:

• credit card fraud, including skimming
• traders overcharging foreigners for goods or services
• traders selling travellers fake goods, especially jewellery and gems

Ask your credit card provider how to prevent credit card fraud.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as water sports.

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check operators' credentials
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Swimming safety

Swimming conditions at some beaches are unsafe, and there can be strong rips.

Lifesaving services are rare and not to the same standard as Australia.

Take appropriate precautions.

Climate and natural disasters

Sri Lanka experiences  severe weather , and occasional  tsunamis .

The monsoon season is from:

• December to March in the north-east
• May to October in the south-west

Flooding and landslides are frequent.

If a  natural disaster  occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location or carry it on you at all times (in a waterproof bag)
• keep in touch with friends and family
• consult with your tour operator about disruptions to your travel plans
• Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Travel insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive  travel insurance . 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Mental health services in Sri Lanka are limited. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)
• Managing your mental health

Medications

Import delays may impact your ability to access some medicines.

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Sri Lanka. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. Consider bringing an extra supply in case your trip is unexpectedly extended.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Dengue fever is a risk in Sri Lanka. Outbreaks of  dengue  occur in all regions of Sri Lanka.

The risk of insect-borne illnesses increases during the wetter months. This is from December to March in the northeast and May to October in the southwest.

If you have a fever, seek medical attention.

Refer to the  Ministry of Health's Epidemiology Unit  for the latest information on dengue cases in Sri Lanka.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases often occur, including:

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

• use mosquito and insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases sometimes occur, including:

• leptospirosis
• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Rabies is found in animals in Sri Lanka. Rabies is fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and bats. Seek medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you. 

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical services and care in Colombo are below Australian standards. Outside of Colombo, facilities are limited, especially for emergency services.

Private hospitals will ask you to pay a deposit or prove you have insurance coverage before treating you. Public general hospitals are free for Sri Lankan nationals. Foreigners will need to pay for any treatments received at public general hospitals.

Facilities are limited for scuba-diving injuries. Sri Lanka's only operational decompression chamber is at the Sri Lanka Navy Base in Trincomalee.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for carrying or using illegal drugs are severe and include the death penalty.

• Carrying or using drugs

Authorities may apply the death penalty for murder or rape.

The legal drinking age is 21 years.

In certain cases, Sri Lankan law permits:

• arrest without warrant
• extended detention without charge or trial
• reversal of the onus of proof

Always carry official photo ID. If you don't, authorities may detain you.

In Sri Lanka it's illegal to:

• cover your face in a way that prevents your identification
• smoke in most public places
• drink alcohol in most public places
• engage in same-sex sexual acts

You must not take photos or record video in High-Security Zones (HSZ), including:

• military establishments
• some government buildings
• official residences

Some HSZs may not be signposted.

It's illegal to mistreat Buddhist images, including:

• having your back to Buddha
• posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha
• wearing tattoos, jewellery or clothing associated with Buddhism

You must have legal authorisation to export certain items, such as antiquities. Contact the  Sri Lankan Department of Archaeology  for details.

• Sri Lankan Customs (Sri Lankan)
• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Sri Lanka recognises dual nationality.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Sri Lanka. Respect religious traditions and objects. Take care not to offend.

Respect local restrictions and observances around religious holidays.

Full moon (Poya) days are celebrated once a month. Authorities ban the sale and purchase of alcohol and fresh meat on these days.

Seek local advice before you take photos of places of worship and nearby areas. You may cause offence.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Entry and exit conditions can change. Sri Lanka has introduced  Digital Arrival & Departure Cards , which can be completed three days prior to travel. 

You need a visa, in the form of an  Electronic Travel Authority .

Tourists are unable to obtain visas on arrival. Select the correct visa category for your situation. Depending on your ETA category, you may be charged a processing fee. You will need to apply online and obtain a valid visa prior to arrival in Sri Lanka. If you engage in activities that breach your visa conditions, authorities could detain or deport you.

Contact the  High Commission of Sri Lanka  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Pay close attention to the date your visa expires. You could receive a large fine if you overstay your visa.

Yellow fever and Cholera

If you're travelling from a country with yellow fever or cholera you need to present evidence that you've received the relevant immunisations.

You need a yellow fever vaccination certificate even if you've only transited through an affected country. This rule applies for the 9 days before you enter Sri Lanka. Babies under one year old are exempt.

Border authorities and airlines may request evidence of immunisations. All travellers should carry proof of vaccination status in English.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever .

• Sri Lanka Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 152KB)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).

You can change Australian dollars for LKR at:

• the airport
• commercial banks in major centres

Most major towns and cities have ATMs. Some ATMs don't accept international cards.

You can withdraw cash from Visa and MasterCard cards at most major banks.

Hotels and major shops will accept credit cards.

Before you travel, ask your bank if your cards will work in Sri Lanka.

Check your statements, as credit card fraud and card-skimming occur.

Local travel

High security zones.

You must get approval from the Ministry of Defence to:

• meet military officials
• visit military establishments
• enter High Security Zones

Limit travel in High Security Zones and near military and government installations.

Be ready to present your approval documents at roadblocks and checkpoints.

Driving permit

To drive in Sri Lanka, you need either:

• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA)
• a temporary Sri Lankan driver’s licence from the  Department of Motor Traffic

To apply for a local licence, you must pay the fee and provide:

• your Australian driver’s licence
• a copy of your passport
• a copy of your Sri Lankan visa
• passport photos

If you drive without an IDP or Sri Lankan driver's licence, you may not be covered by your travel or vehicle insurance.

Road travel

Demonstrations in Sri Lanka can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport.

Driving in Sri Lanka is hazardous. Road accident injuries and deaths are common. 

Driving standards are poor. Vehicles aren't well maintained.

If you plan to drive in Sri Lanka:

• learn local traffic laws and practices
• drive carefully and legally
• don't drink and drive
• Road safety

Motorcycles

Ask your travel insurer if your policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

If you have a local SIM card, ridesharing apps are available in major cities. However, vehicle standards vary.

Public transport

Demonstrations in Sri Lanka can lead to disruptions to public transport.

Safety standards on buses and trains may be lower than in Australia.

There are a high number of road deaths and injuries, especially on intercity buses. There have also been fatal accidents on Sri Lankan railways in recent years.

Take care of your belongings because theft occurs. See  Safety

• Transport and getting around safely

Piracy   occurs in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka.

Get piracy reports from the  International Maritime Bureau .

• Travelling by yacht or small craft

Commercial passenger flights are operating with regular connections to Australia. Flight schedules may change at short notice. 

Allow additional time to clear security formalities and be ready to present travel documents at checkpoints.

Curfews and other security measures could affect domestic travel, including flights.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Sri Lanka's air safety  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call (+94 11) 242 1052 or (+94 11) 242 1451 .

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Colombo.

Australian High Commission

21, Srimath R. G. Senanayake Mawatha (formerly Gregory's Road) Colombo 7, Sri Lanka Phone: (+94 11) 246 3200 Fax: (+94 11) 268 6453 Email:  [email protected] Website:  srilanka.embassy.gov.au Twitter: Australia in Sri Lanka Facebook:  Australia in Sri Lanka

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Sri Lanka?

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Sri lanka lifts all remaining covid entry requirements.

Sri Lanka has lifted all of its remaining Covid entry requirements, bringing to an end the country’s Covid travel regime, which has been effective in its current form since mid-April.

Arrivals into Sri Lanka are no longer required to provide evidence of their Covid status either via a valid certificate of vaccination against Covid-19 or recent negative test for the virus.

The new rules came into effect from 7 December, and apply to all arrivals by air or sea. Any foreign national who tests positive for Covid after arriving in Sri Lanka will be required to isolate for seven days.

The Foreign Office updated its travel advice for Sri Lanka to reflect the change on Monday (12 December).

"In December 2022, the government of Sri Lanka announced travellers are no longer required to produce Covid-19 vaccination certificates on arrival in Sri Lanka," said the FCDO. "Pre-departure Covid-19 tests are also no longer required before arrival."

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