Visa for Media Personnel

Visa for Media Personnel

(Journalists, Photojournalists, Film Crews and Media Teams)

Important Information

• Prior approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sri Lanka, is mandatory
• Applications should be submitted at least two (2) weeks in advance
• Media personnel must not travel on a Tourist or Business ETA for professional media assignments
• Visas under this category are issued through the High Commission upon receipt of required approvals

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following:

1.     Duly completed - ETA Business Visa application form

2.     Original passport with at least two blank visa pages (Passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka)

3.     Copy of passport (data/photo page)

4.     One recent passport-sized photograph (taken within the last six months)

5.     Valid UK visa (for non-British/non-EU applicants)

6.     Invitation letter from the host organisation/company in Sri Lanka (Addressed to the Visa Section of the High Commission & issued by an authorised officer on            official letterhead)

7.     Request letter addressed to the High Commission, including:

        o    Synopsis of the project/film

        o    Duration and locations of the assignment

        o    Names and passport details of all media personnel travelling

8.     Approval from the National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka -(website)(where applicable)

9.     Carnet document for all media equipment being taken into Sri Lanka

10.   For filming in wildlife or protected areas, prior approval from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, Sri Lanka-(website)

11.   Applicable - visa fee

Postal Applications

·         If submitting your application by post, please include a postal order payable to “Sri Lanka High Commission”, with the relevant visa fee and a self- addressed prepaid (special delivery) envelope to return the passport.

·         The High Commission is not responsible for any lost or damaged documents sent by post.