Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Sri Lanka Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Sri Lanka - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Sri Lanka due to the security situation.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 – Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. These measures may differ from region to region and change without notice.
You must wear a face covering in public.
If you violate preventative measures, you could face serious criminal charges or imprisonment for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism.
On April 21, 2019, several explosions occurred at different locations, including hotels and churches, in the greater Colombo area and Batticaloa. These attacks resulted in more than 250 deaths and 500 injuries.
Further attacks can’t be ruled out. Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Intercommunal tensions have led to instances of civil unrest and acts of violence following the terrorist attacks of April 2019. Further incidents could occur.
Demonstrations occur regularly in Colombo, and occasionally elsewhere in the country. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
East and North
The Sri Lankan military continues to maintain a strong presence in the country’s North and East, including the Jaffna Peninsula. Military and police checkpoints can be established and road closures can occur suddenly. Travel restrictions may be imposed in the North without notice, including in areas around military establishments and those where demining operations continue.
Security forces have wide-ranging powers, including the authority to:
- impose curfews
- detain without charge for extended periods
- search individuals, vehicles, residences and commercial premises
Individuals of Sri Lankan heritage, including those who don’t have Sri Lankan citizenship, have been detained on occasion by police or security forces.
- Avoid military areas and High Security Zones
- Always carry formal photographic identification with you
- Remain on heavily travelled roads and avoid walking in forested areas and abandoned properties due to the risk of unexploded mines
- Monitor local developments via local news
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- If you’re detained, ask the authorities to contact the High Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka and Maldives
Crime
Violent crime occurs, including harassment and assault aimed at Western foreigners.
Petty crime such as purse snatching and pickpocketing is common, especially on public transportation. Theft has occurred in hotels and guesthouses.
Credit card fraud is common. Pay very close attention to your credit card when it is being handled. To minimize risks, you should opt to pay in cash whenever possible.
Ensure that your personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Spiked food and drinks
Foreigners have been targeted in incidents of drink spiking, often combined with sexual assault or theft. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
Inter-communal tensions
Inter-communal and religious tensions exist throughout the country and have led to violence. Further violent incidents could occur.
Women’s safety
Women are often the target for unwanted attention. They should exercise caution when travelling alone.
Road safety
Road conditions are usually poor outside major cities.
Road accidents, often causing death and injuries, are common due to poorly maintained vehicles, erratic driving practices and pedestrians and roaming animals on the road.
Roads may be closed on short notice.
Public transportation
Travel by bus is generally unsafe due to aggressive drivers and the risk of theft.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Swimming
Swimming conditions may be unsafe. Follow the advice and warnings of local authorities.
Tourist facilities
Tourist facilities are widely available but quality varies, especially inland. You should arrange travel to remote areas through a reputable travel agency.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Sri Lankan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Sri Lanka.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Canadians must be in possession of a valid visa to visit Sri Lanka.
For stays of up to 30 days, you can apply online for a tourist visa. You can obtain all other visas at a Sri Lankan government office in Canada or abroad.
Visas may be extended at Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration in Colombo.
Tourist visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required
Work visa: Required
You cannot convert a visa status once in Sri Lanka. Non-compliance with visa restrictions may result in deportation.
Apply for the Electronic Travel Authority - Sri Lankan Department of Immigration and Emigration
Special permissions
Journalists and media crews need permission to travel to some northern districts.
Entry into Sri Lankan waters, at any point, requires prior permission.
Other requirements
An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to sustain you while you are in the country are required to visit Sri Lanka.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in South Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in South Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in South Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Southern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Medical services and facilities do not meet the standards you might normally expect in Canada.
Medical facilities in certain areas outside of Colombo are limited, particularly in the north. In the event of a major accident or illness, medical evacuation is often necessary. Medical transport is very expensive.
Medical facilities may require confirmation of insurance coverage, guarantee of payment or an up-front deposit before admitting patients.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Illegal drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict.
Other illegal or restricted activities
Smoking is prohibited in many indoor public places, workplaces and on public transport. Use designated smoking areas.
Alcohol consumption in public places is prohibited.
Exporting antiques without a proper licence is illegal.
Photographing and videotaping government and military installations, as well as in any designated high-security zone, is prohibited.
Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions and artefacts to avoid offending local sensitivities. Posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha is a serious offence, punishable by a fine or an arrest. Tattoos, jewellery and clothing associated with Buddhism are considered offensive and may lead to fines, arrest or deportation.
Identification
Carry official identification at all times.
LGBTQ2 travellers
LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sri Lanka.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
Checkpoints may be set up. Carry personal identification at all times and comply with government and security force instructions.
You should carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sri Lanka.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sri Lanka, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Money
The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).
Credit cards are widely accepted in major urban and tourist centres. You may encounter difficulties in making Visa and MasterCard cash withdrawals. There are ATMs in major cities, but some do not accept international cards.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Monsoon and rainstorms
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from December to March in the northeast and June to October in the southwest.
Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides, which can lead to deaths, injuries and large population displacements.
- Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
Useful links
- Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
- Large-scale emergencies abroad
- Weather forecasts - Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology
- Disaster warnings and weather reports – Sri Lankan Disaster Management Center
Earthquakes and tsunamis
Sri Lanka is located in an active seismic zone and may be prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 119 / 118
- tourist police: 94 (11) 242 1052
- medical assistance: 110
- firefighters: 94 (11) 242 2222
Consular assistance
Colombo - High Commission of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka in Colombo and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.