Do Sri Lankan need a visa to India?

As an expert in international travel regulations and visa requirements, I have a comprehensive understanding of the various protocols that different countries follow when it comes to issuing visas to foreign nationals. When it comes to the question of whether Sri Lankan citizens require a visa to enter India, the answer is nuanced and depends on the purpose of the visit. **Visa Requirements for Sri Lankan Citizens Traveling to India** India has a well-defined visa policy that categorizes visas into various types based on the purpose of visit. For Sri Lankan citizens, the visa requirements can be broadly categorized into the following: 1. Tourist Visa: As mentioned in the provided content, a Tourist Visa is granted to a Sri Lankan or foreign national who does not have a residence or occupation in India and whose sole objective of visiting India is for tourism, recreation, sight-seeing, or casual visits to meet friends and relatives. It is important to note that no other activities are permissible on a tourist visa. This type of visa is typically valid for a short duration and is non-extendable. 2. E-Visa: India offers an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), commonly known as an e-visa, which is a convenient option for tourists from eligible countries, including Sri Lanka. The e-visa is available for short stays and is processed online, eliminating the need for a physical stamp in the passport. 3. Business Visa: For those traveling to India for business purposes, a business visa is required. This type of visa allows the holder to engage in business-related activities within the country. 4. Employment Visa: If a Sri Lankan citizen is seeking to work in India, they must obtain an employment visa. This involves a more rigorous application process and requires sponsorship from an Indian employer. 5. Medical Visa: India is known for its medical tourism, and a medical visa is available for those who wish to travel to India for medical treatment. Application Process and Documentation The application process for an Indian visa typically involves the following steps: - Online Application: Most visa applications for India are now done online through the official government portal. - Documentation: Applicants are required to submit various documents such as a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, a cover letter stating the purpose of visit, and proof of financial means to support the stay in India. - Fees: There is a fee associated with the visa application, which varies depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. Important Considerations - Validity and Duration: The validity of the visa and the permitted duration of stay are determined by the Indian immigration authorities and are specified in the visa itself. - Visa on Arrival: As of my last update, Sri Lankan citizens are not eligible for the Visa on Arrival facility in India. - Changes in Policy: Visa policies can change, and it is always advisable to check the most current information from the official Indian government sources or through the Indian embassy or consulate in Sri Lanka. In conclusion, whether a Sri Lankan citizen needs a visa to enter India depends on the purpose and nature of their visit. It is crucial to apply for the correct type of visa and to follow the application process diligently to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Tourist Visa is granted to a Sri Lankan / Foreigner National who does not have a residence or Occupation in India and whose sole objective of visiting India is Tourism, Recreation, sight-seeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives. No other activity is permissible on a Tourist Visa.