Planning your dream trip to Sri Lanka? Here’s how to apply for a Tourist Visa and get up to 18% VAT refunded on your shopping before you fly home.
✅ Part 1: How to Get a Tourist Visa to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka welcomes tourists from around the world through a convenient eVisa system known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
📝 Requirements for Tourist Visa (ETA):
To apply, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- A return ticket or onward travel plan
- A credit/debit card for payment
- A valid email address
🔗 How to Apply Online:
- Visit the official ETA website: www.eta.gov.lk
- Select “Apply for ETA” under the Tourist Visa section.
- Fill in your details: Name, Passport, Travel Dates, etc.
- Pay the visa fee (approx. USD 20–50 depending on nationality)
- Receive your ETA approval within 24–48 hours by email.
Duration: The standard tourist visa is valid for 30 days with the possibility of extension.
✅ Part 2: Tax-Free Shopping in Sri Lanka (Tourist VAT Refund)
As a tourist, you’re entitled to get back the Value Added Tax (VAT) you pay when shopping in Sri Lanka under the Tourist VAT Refund Scheme (TVRS). That means you can enjoy up to 18% back on your eligible purchases!
🛍️ Who Can Claim VAT Refund?
To qualify for the VAT refund, you must:
- Be a non-citizen and non-resident of Sri Lanka
- Hold a visitor visa
- Be 18 years or older
- Stay in Sri Lanka for less than 90 days
🧾 What Can You Claim VAT On?
✅ Eligible Goods:
- Clothing, handlooms, souvenirs
- Tea, spices, handicrafts
- Gemstones and jewelry
- Electronics (from authorized stores)
❌ Not Eligible:
- Services (hotels, restaurants)
- Food & beverages consumed in Sri Lanka
- Online purchases
- VAT-exempt goods
- Goods not presented at customs
🏪 Where to Shop?
Only purchases made at authorized VAT-registered retailers qualify. Look for shops that display the TVRS logo (Tourist VAT Refund Scheme).
Some popular chains:
- Odel, House of Fashion, Barefoot
- Laksala, Paradise Road, Romafour
- Mlesna Tea Centres, LUV SL
💰 VAT Refund Conditions:
- Spend a minimum of LKR 50,000 (before VAT)
- A maximum of 3 invoices per shop per day
- Request a TVRI (Tourist VAT Refund Invoice) at the store
- Present your invoices + goods at the TVRS counter at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) at departure
🛫 How to Claim Your Refund?
- At the Airport (Before Customs):
- Go to the TVRS Counter at the departure lounge
- Show your passport, invoices (TVRI), and purchased goods for inspection
- After Approval:
- Your refund will be processed by bank transfer or credited to your card (processing times may vary)
💡 Pro Tip: Want Help with the VAT Refund Process?
We offer affordable support packages for tourists:
| Plan | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Service | Email guide + eligibility checklist | USD 5 |
| Full Assistance | WhatsApp support + shop guidance + reminders | USD 10 |
🌐 Why Shop Tax-Free in Sri Lanka?
- Save more while buying authentic local goods
- Enjoy stress-free refunds with our support
- Explore more with your savings!
🎯 Final Thoughts
Sri Lanka offers beautiful beaches, world-famous tea, and now — tax-free shopping for savvy tourists. Apply for your tourist visa online, shop smart at authorized stores, and claim your refund before you leave.
💬 Got questions? Chat with us on WhatsApp or visit our FAQ page!
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