Claim: Social media posts, including one widely shared on X, claim that Indian citizens can now travel to Sri Lanka without a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), needing only a valid passport and return ticket.

FactSeeker Verdict: TRUE

As of February 2026, the Sri Lankan government has removed the ETA requirement for Indian nationals. This change is part of a broader strategy to boost tourism during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, allowing Indian travelers to enter the country with just a valid passport and confirmed return or onward ticket

https://x.com/SLinIndia     (Sri Lanka High Commission in India, X/Twitter, Feb 2026).

Investigating the Claim

Confusion initially arose because official websites like http://eta.gov.lk still displayed instructions for a “Free ETA,” where travelers had to submit an online application even if no fee was charged (Department of Immigration and Emigration Sri Lanka, Oct 2025).

To clarify, FactSeeker contacted the Sri Lanka High Commission in India, which confirmed:

“Indian passport holders do not need an ETA. All that is needed is a valid passport and air ticket”

https://x.com/SLinIndia/status/2022636869062893958?s=20

(Sri Lanka High Commission in India, X/Twitter, Feb 2026).

This removed any doubt: the online ETA step is no longer required for Indian travelers.

Why the Change?

The policy shift aligns with the T20 World Cup 2026, which is expected to bring a large influx of Indian cricket fans to Sri Lanka (ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Official Travel Advisories).

Seamless Entry: Eliminating the online ETA prevents server delays and digital bottlenecks during peak travel periods.

Hassle-Free Tourism: The walk-in facility applies to all Indian tourists visiting for up to 30 days, not just cricket fans.

Current Entry Requirements (Feb 2026)

Even without an ETA, Indian travelers must present:

A valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry.

A confirmed return or onward ticket, showing intent to leave within 30 days.

Conclusion

Indian nationals can now enter Sri Lanka without a visa or ETA. A valid passport and return ticket are sufficient for a stay of up to 30 days. This policy simplifies travel for both tourists and cricket fans attending the T20 World Cup, eliminating previous digital hurdles while retaining standard immigration checks.

The claim circulating on social media is accurate, and travelers no longer need to visit ETA portals or wait for email approvals.