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04, March 2026

✈️ Flying into Sri Lanka? Your 2025 Entry & Transit Checklist

Touching down at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) is the start of the most exciting journey into the beautiful country of Sri Lanka. But the first 60 minutes after landing can often be the most stressful.

At Kynrock, we welcome travellers every day, and we’ve noticed the same few questions popping up. To help you breeze through the terminal and start your stay on the right note, here is our Essential Sri Lanka Entry Guide for 2025.

1. The Visa (ETA) Update

Most travellers require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter.

•  Apply online at the official eta.gov.lk portal before you fly. While on-arrival facilities exist, pre-clearing your ETA saves you from long queues after a tiring flight.
• Note: If you are a citizen of China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, or Japan, check for the current "Free Visa" schemes which are often extended to boost tourism! Sri Lanka plans to expand this to more countries to encourage and support tourism. So travellers check updates!

2. Smart Currency Exchange

While BIA has 24/7 exchange counters, here is the local secret:

• Only exchange what you need for your first 24 hours (around $50–$100) at the airport. You will often find slightly better rates at authorized money changers in the city or via ATMs.
• Card Use: Major hotels and restaurants in Katunayake/Colombo accept Visa and Mastercard, but for "Tuk-Tuks" and local street food, Cash is King.

3. Beating the Traffic

If your final destination is Colombo or the South, timing is everything.

• The Office Rush: Avoid leaving the airport area between 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM unless you enjoy a very long view of the highway.
• The Solution: If you land during rush hour, book a "Refresh Room" or a meal at Kynrock Airport Hotel (just 5 minutes away). Relax, shower, and hit the road once the traffic clears.

4. Health & Safety

Keep a digital or printed copy of your travel insurance. It’s rarely asked for at immigration now, but having it handy ensures total peace of mind for your island adventures.

Coming for a quick business trip or a long layover? Let Kynrock Airport  Hotel at Katunayake be your first stop. We provide airport shuttles to get you from the runway to relaxation in minutes.

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