Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka?

For all you culture connoisseurs out there, the curry coast of Sri Lanka is especially sweet during the months of November to April! This dry period witnesses an influx of travellers who tour the heritage ruins, ornate temples, colonial churches and magnificent nature nooks, with comfort and ease. From May to August the South-West monsoon brings heavy rain to Sri Lanka’s classic tourist trail in the south and west of the country. On the other side of the country, however, the sun is shining and the surf’s up at beautiful beaches like Arugam Bay, Pasikuda & Nilaweli. Therefore, Sri Lanka is a destination you can visit any month of the year.

Do I need a visa to enter the country?

Yes, you need to obtain a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can apply visa via online, through the Embassy or on arrival. (for German or any EU country passport holders). Further, your passport should be valid for more than six (06) months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka to apply for visa.

How to apply visa?

You can apply visa Online via the official website of the Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka OR through this Embassy OR On-Arrival at the entry port in Sri Lanka. 

What are the duty free allowances available for foreign visitors?

Foreign visitors are eligible for an exemption of Customs duties on personal belongings such as clothing, cosmetics and gifts up to a value of US$ 250/- and 1 1/2 lit. of liquor and 2 bottles of wine.

What are the ‘Prohibited & Restricted items’ to be carried by pessengers to Sri Lanka?

Prohibited items

    • Narcotics, Psychotropic Substances, Precursor Drugs, Pornographic and Pro-Religious Literature
    • Cigarettes

Restricted items

    • Gold, Jewellery, Gems and other Precious Metals
    • Liquor and Wines
    • Cosmetics, Medicinal drugs and devices
    • Telecommunication Equipment
    • Foreign currencies more than US$ 15000 or equivalent. If you intend to take back US$ 5000 or more, please declare the entire amount Sri Lankan Rupees not more than 20000 only for Sri Lankan citizens.
    • Animals, Plants (including specimens) and their parts
    • Firearms, Ammunition, Air Guns and Explosives
    • Any other items which require special permits or licenses

Are you allowed to bring your Pets to Sri Lanka?

Yes. You are allowed to bring your pets to Sri Lanka. Please see the information page for more details.

What health requirements must I be concerned with?

  • Sri Lanka has an effective public health care system which is considered a model for most developing countries across the world. However, emergency medical facilities may not be found in the certain areas outside of the main cities. The private hospitals are also available in almost all the cities in the country.
  • It is mandatory for those travelling to Sri Lanka from African or Latin American country to have a valid certificate of vaccination for Yellow Fever prior to arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • Almost every town in Sri Lanka has pharmacies selling common medicines. However, we advise you to carry any special medication as the availability of medical supplies may vary. You are also advised to take an adequate health insurance cover when travelling to Sri Lanka.

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Sri Lanka?

    • You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Sri Lanka. You must obtain an IDP in advance of your trip to Sri Lanka. You can obtain a Temporary Driving License from Lanka Automobile Association by producing your International Driving Permit. They will charge a service fee and a photograph is also required.

How much of money can I bring in to/ take out of the country?

    • There is no restriction in bringing money in foreign currencies into Sri Lanka. This sum could be in Traveler’s Cheques (TCs), Bank Drafts or currency notes. However, if the total exceeds US$ 15,000, that sum must be declared to the Sri Lanka Customs.
    • If you wish to take out from Sri Lanka a sum in excess of US$ 5000 in currency notes (out of the money brought in), you must declare the entirety of the sum brought in, even if it is less than US$ 15,000.
    • The foreign currency amounts indicated in US$ may be in equivalent amounts in other convertible foreign currencies.
Scroll to Top