Sri Lanka Embassy in India

About Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island country in the Indian Ocean, near India's southeast coast. About 23 million people live there, even though it is only about 65,610 square kilometres. The country's economy is diverse, built on farming, manufacturing, mining, and tourism. Its main exports are tea, rubber, and coconut. Sri Lanka's past is complex and includes many cultures.

• Relations with India: There is a strong historical and cultural link between India and Sri Lanka that goes back more than 2,500 years through migration, trade, and Buddhism. Through SAARC and bilateral deals, both countries are still working together to build strong diplomatic, artistic, political, and economic ties.
• Tourism Opportunities: Beautiful beaches, old buildings, and wildlife make Sri Lanka great for tourists. The country is encouraging Indian travellers, projecting its travel market to reach a revenue of US$348 million. Some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka are Anuradhapura, an old city; Galle, which has beautiful beaches; and Kandy, known for its Temple of the Tooth.
• Expats in India and Vice Versa: Tourism also plays a pivotal role in the relationship. India remains the top source market for Sri Lanka, with 36,417 Indian tourist arrivals recorded in October 2024 alone. Indian tourists accounted for 27% of the total 1.35 lakh visitors during the month. Looking ahead, Sri Lanka anticipates 2.3 million tourist arrivals in 2024, with a target of generating $5 billion in revenue for the year.
• Visa Requirements for Indian Visitors: Indian travellers must have a visa to visit Sri Lanka, which includes various types such as tourist, business, and work visas. As of September 27, 2024, all tourist and business travellers can now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for entry into Sri Lanka. This streamlined process makes applying for a visa quick and convenient. Visitors can access the official ETA portal.
• Visa Exemptions: From May 2024, Indian nationals holding diplomatic or official passports are exempt from requiring a visa for stays of up to 30 days in Sri Lanka for official or diplomatic visits. However, individuals employed by international organisations or agencies must obtain a visa for both official and private visits. This policy facilitates easier travel arrangements for those in diplomatic or official capacities while maintaining visa requirements for other travel categories.
• Ease of Commute: Sri Lanka is easy because there are many ways to get around, such as cars, trains, and tuk-tuks. The island's rail system links the main towns and provides scenic routes. The Central Transport Board (CTB) buses connect urban and rural areas on economical and wide routes, making travel convenient for inhabitants and tourists.

Note: The exemptions are subject to change at the time of travel. Please confirm once from the official sources.

Difference Between Embassy and Consulate

An embassy is the main diplomatic mission representing one country in another, while a consulate supports the embassy's work.

• Embassy: A team of diplomats sent to another country. Embassies assist with passport issues, handle business and financial matters, and offer help in emergencies.
• Consulate: A branch of the embassy that focuses on specific tasks like visa processing, document attestation, and supporting immigration procedures.

When Can You Contact the Sri Lanka Embassy?

Sri Lanka has diplomatic offices in India, including the High Commission in New Delhi and consulates in Chennai and Mumbai. These offices provide various services for Sri Lankan citizens and Indian visitors. Understanding their working hours and services helps in efficient communication.

How to Contact the Sri Lanka Embassy/Consulate

Take a look over the detailed analysis of where the Sri Lankan Embassy and Consulates in India are located, how to reach them, and when they are open:

Indian Embassy in Sri Lanka

Indian people living in or visiting Sri Lanka can find the Indian High Commission in Colombo for most of their diplomatic needs. Sri Lanka embassy services in India include visa applications, renewing passports, getting legal help, and getting help in an emergency.

Emergency Contact

There is a 24-hour helpline at the High Commission for situations, especially for Indian citizens who are in trouble outside of work hours or on holidays: +94-11-2327587, 2421605, 2422788, or 2422789. For emergencies that need help right away, this service is for you.

Key Services

The Sri Lanka Embassy in India helps people in need, including Sri Lankan individuals. Among these services are:

• Cultural and Educational Exchange: To help people from India and Sri Lanka understand each other better, the embassy supports cultural meetings, educational programs, and events.
• Dual Nationality Guidance: Regarding dual nationality, the embassy helps and gives information to Sri Lankan citizens who want to become dual citizens with India or deal with legal issues.
• Indian Visas for Sri Lankans: The Sri Lankan embassy in India handles visa applications, checks information, authenticates papers, holds interviews, and helps citizens with passport problems, such as replacing lost passports temporarily.

How is Sri Lanka Travel Insurance Helpful?

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Get customised travel insurance for Sri Lanka to ensure a comfortable vacation. Beautiful beauty, a rich history, and busy markets make Sri Lanka unforgettable. Travel insurance provides you the confidence to enjoy every moment.

• Support for Medical Emergencies: Travel insurance covers hospitalisation and medical treatment for injuries or illnesses while travelling. It covers worst-case emergency evacuations.
• Trip Interruptions and Cancellations: If you don't cancel or delay your vacation due to a medical emergency, natural disaster, or personal concern, this benefit will refund any non-refundable fees.
• Lost Baggage and Documents: Insurance covers damaged or stolen bags, so you can buy necessities while waiting for replacements. It can recover lost IDs and other critical documents.
• Full Assistance: 24/7 legal, medical, and safety assistance. You'll always have emergency aid during your Sri Lanka vacation, ensuring your safety and fun.