Sri Lanka: An Island That Captures Your Heart

Since 2024, ETA visa is free for Russians. Apply online at eta.gov.lk, takes 1-2 days to process. Allows 30-day stay. You can also get visa on arrival, but online is recommended. Any hotel address can be used in the application.

Yes, you can extend at the immigration office in Colombo. First extension to 90 days costs about $50. Can extend up to 180 days. You need passport, return ticket (or booking), and proof of accommodation.

Officially no, phone screenshot is enough. But based on chat experience: many were checked at the airport, so better print it. Especially for transit flights — airlines may require a paper copy.

For 30-day visa — usually not asked. For 180-day visa — may be requested. Booking confirmation is enough. Some airlines check at boarding.

No, Mir cards don't work in Sri Lanka for cash or payments. You need UnionPay. Russian banks that work: Rosselkhozbank, ATB. Gazprombank doesn't work for visa payment. You can also open a local card at HNB bank in 1 hour.

Best rate at jewelry shops in the south (Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Galle). Rate Dec 2025: about 308-312 LKR per $1. Airport rate is worse, but exchangers show paper notes with real rate — need to ask. Banks have official but lower rate.

Yes, through Telegram exchangers. Rate is similar to double conversion. Transfer rubles to their card, get cash rupees. Service works but check rates and fees. Verified exchangers can be found in chat groups.

About 250 RUB (or equivalent) per withdrawal and even for balance check. No fee for card payments. Withdrawal limit usually 50,000-100,000 LKR. Cards accepted mainly in large hotels and supermarkets — most places cash only.

Yes, at HNB bank you can open account and get Visa card in 1 hour. Need passport and $50 deposit. But limits are low — $100/day for online purchases. Not great for large purchases and bookings.

About 45-50 LKR per kilometer. Short rides from 200-500 LKR. Always bargain or use PickMe app (local Uber). Tourists often get 2-3x higher prices. More expensive at night.

PickMe — main app (like Uber). Works everywhere in the south, fixed prices. Uber and Grab don't work. You can also negotiate directly with drivers — they often leave business cards.

From $6-10/day, usually 2000-2500 LKR. In Hikkaduwa and tourist areas may ask 3000+ LKR — bargain. Monthly from $100-150. Need license (international or local tourist — made for $30-40 at local traffic police in 40 min). Police stop foreigners — fine 5000-25000 LKR.