Everything You Must Know Before Applying For Visa!

One thing that is essentially required by anyone who seeks to travel foreign country is a valid visa for that country. A visa is a permit that allows you to visit the country, lawfully. There are many types of visas; a foreign national may apply for as per the requirements. Either temporarily or permanently, a valid visa is required to be lawfully admitted to any country.

The visas are divided according to the requirements and the purpose of travelling. As an applicant you must meet all the requirements to receive the category of visa which you wish to apply. After submitting the application for visa, a consular officer will determine whether you are eligible to receive a visa, and if so, under which category.

Visas are mainly divided into two categories- Immigrant Visa (IV) and non-immigrant Visa (NIV). Let’s talk about these two types of visas in detail:

IMMIGRANT VISA

People who wish to make a permanent residence in a foreign country can apply for immigrant visa. This type of visa is specifically designed for them. This type of visa not only allows the applicant to visit the country but also to seek employment and avail citizenship in the respective country. Although there are multiple subcategories of immigrant visas, they are limited in numbers. If there is no visa cap available, you may be placed on a waiting list until a visa slot becomes available for you. Most of the popular countries like USA, UK, Canada, and Australia etc. have been the most popular destination since few decades. But the trend is changing now and other countries are emerging as favorite destinations for immigration.

NON-IMMIGRANT VISA

Non-immigrant visas are the conventional visas and include everything ranging from tourist activities to business visits. NIV is issued to a person who wishes to visit another country on a temporary basis for recreational activity, medical treatment, business, short term course, conference or any other temporary work. NIV are much easier and cheaper to obtain and usually do not involve waiting list.
However these visas have certain limitations and usually do not allow you to live permanently, work in other country for more than specified time. These visas are designed to allow people to travel other countries for specific purpose, for a short period of time.

Therefore whatever your visiting purpose is, it is very essential to choose the correct type of visa. Applying for the wrong visa can delay your application or further can lead to rejection. Thus, always reach out to expert if you are not clear about which one to apply for in order to avoid rejection. For more information you can visit www.sri-lankaeta.com .

Visa Processing Time Countries Take

Has it ever happened to you that you booked your reservations, bought tickets, submitted your documents and applied for the visa, but your visa did not reach you before your travelling date? Well, you are not the first one and you will not be the last one with whom it happened. This must have happened to so many people due to which they had to reschedule everything and had to shed extra money as well.

From the moment you apply for the visa, your visa application undergoes the visa process. The visa processing time varies depending on the countries and the type you have applied for. However it is possible to calculate an average amount of time to apply for your visa, keeping some time in buffer. We have come up with a list of the countries to give you heads up on the amount of time they take to grant visas. Check out the list below:

1-7 Business days- Countries that falls under within 1 to 7 business days are fast in processing applications because their economy majorly runs on tourism. They provide visa in less than 7 business days post application submission. However, they calculate the business days as per the laws of their country. For e.g. Friday and Saturday are considered weekend in UAE, so their business days include Sunday to Thursday. The countries that grant visas in few days are: Sri Lanka, UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, Mexico, Kenya, Russia, France, USA and South Africa.

8-20 Business days- These countries take much longer time to complete the verification process of the documents. Most of the Schengen nations like Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Philippines, Spain, Poland and Czech Republic come under this category.

More than 3 weeks- The time taken by the countries to validate the documents and send passports with an approved or rejected status takes more than the 3 weeks. However countries like Australia, doesn’t keep your passport. So while the process is still going on you can still travel to other countries. Australia takes 2-3 weeks to grant visa while United Kingdom and Canada takes 3 to 6 weeks.

The list is dynamic and there are more than 180 countries in the world waiting to be explored. Therefore it is recommended to get information on processing time weeks before you apply for visa and also your travelling date. Sometimes a delay of day or two can jeopardize your travel plans. So always keep yourself aware about the country`s visa processing time you are visiting to. For more information regarding Sri Lanka visa, you can log on to www.sri-lankaeta.com .

12 Fascinating Facts about Sri Lanka You Might Didn`t Know

Sri Lanka is one of those countries that never cease to amaze people with its serene coastlines, idyllic beaches, lush tea plantation, well preserved wildlife reserves, Buddhist cultures and various temples with stunning architecture. Now you can even get Sri Lanka eta visa online easily.
A rich and fascinating country has an equally unique and interesting facts related to it. Therefore before planning to visit this island country, it is much more fun to become familiar with it. Here are few interesting facts about the country that will surely surprise and amaze you at the same time:

1. The name ‘pearl of Indian Ocean’ is given to this country due to its mesmerizing coastal beauty and one of its main exports of the precious gemstones. The second name ‘teardrop of India’ is due to its perfect teardrop shape.
2. Sri Lanka was first colonized by the Portuguese in 1505, followed by the Dutch in 1658 and then the British in 1796. In the year 1948, the country gained full independence.
3. Before independence, Sri Lanka used to be called Ceylon which is a transliteration of Ceilao. It changed its name to Sri Lanka when it became a republic in 1972.
4. The oldest living tree planted by a man is in Sri Lanka. Shri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura is older than 2000 years. It was grown from a branch which was brought from Bodh Gaya in India, the tree under which Lord Buddha gained enlightenment.
5. The world`s first female Prime Minister was from Sri Lanka. Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the first female prime minister of Ceylon in 1960 and the world`s first Prime Minister too.
6. The Adam`s bridge that connects India with Sri Lanka is believed to be built by the Lord Rama and his army of monkeys, according to Hindu devotees.
7. Animals throughout the country sensed the incoming tsunami an hour before it hit. Reports include elephants running away from the beach and the birds flying to higher ground in Yala National Park.
8. Sri Lanka was the second worst-hit country by 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. More than 40,000 people were killed.
9. In 2016, The WHO declared it as malaria-free. The country had been the most malaria-affected countries in the mid-20^th The anti-malaria campaign successfully targeted the disease making the country completely free from the disease.
10. Sri Lanka is home to Sigiriya Rock Fortress which is also a famous world heritage site. It is a gigantic column of rock rising from the forested plains below.
11. It is the only country where you can find the world`s largest mammal of land and the largest marine mammal – the blue whale, in a single day.
12. Lipton Tea was founded in Sri Lanka when its Glasgow-born owner Sir Thomas Lipton purchased 5,500 acres of Dambatenne Tea Plantation in Ceylon`s high country.

Imagine a country which has so many fascinating facts associated with it, would be so much interesting to visit. So book your Sri Lanka eta visa by visiting our website www.sri-lankaeta.com

Celebrate New Years With These 5 Crazy Party Places In Sri Lanka

As countdown to 2018 has begun, many people must have started planning to kiss 2017 goodbye and to welcome the New Year with open heart and arms. If great bands, live music, lip-smacking food, themed pubs and enthusiastic crowd around the rolling roulette are your idea of celebrating New Year is, then Colombo is the place to be this 31 December!

Nightlife in Colombo is the best in the country and you can have amazing time with rolling your heads in sync with great music without breaking banks. And since gambling is legal but getting inside the country without a valid visa is still illegal, you can apply for Sri Lanka Visa.
Travelling to Sri Lanka and not experiencing its lively casinos and happening night life will definitely be unfair. Here are top most highlights from chic party scene straight from Colombo:

1. Bally`s Casino: If you want to experience the crazy nightlife, this place is the best among the rest. Popular since a long time, Bally`s has been the most favorite among the party goers. With a large number of clientele, its huge gaming area is always buzzing with people that include both locals and tourists. The stakes start from as low as INR 100 and can go up to lacs. What’s more? You can surely relish the delicious snacks and drinks for free!

              LOCATION– 34 D R Wijewardena Mawatha, Colombo 00100, Sri Lanka

2. Bellagio Casino: Located in the middle of all humdrum, Bellagio is a haven for true players. The hierarchy is such that the low stake tables are parked at the entrance while the high rollers are at the end. The atmosphere is always vibrant and packed with crowd. Once you enroll your name you can binge on free food and drinks while playing Three Card Poker, Black Jack and Roulette. Don’t want to miss out on the chic party scene? Apply for Sri Lanka Visa right now!

       LOCATION- 430 R A De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka

3. Rhythm and Blues Nightclub– Every New Year party is incomplete without loud music, crazy ambience and people moving with beats. One of the most popular places to visit, Rhythm and blues is can amp up every party goer`s scene. The interiors are done tastefully while keeping in accordance with the party scene and menu offers drinks and finger food which are completely drool worthy.

              LOCATION– 19/1, Daisy Villa Avenue, Colombo 4, Colombo – 00400

4. Loft Lounge Bar- If you want to relax and have a great time amidst the arty interiors, the loft can give you some new party goals. A charming and trending hangout bar, this place is adorned with pieces of scrap like tractor pieces of bar stools, scrunched ceiling sheets and sack cushions. The classic drinks and freshly brewed cocktails are top sellers.

LOCATION- Colombo Courtyard, Alfred House Ave, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka

5. ZAZA Bar- Indulge yourself in the freshness of outdoors while enjoying the comfort of the indoors. Surrounded by the glass walls and ceilings, Zaza provides an environment which is both abstract as well as modern. The strobing neon lights perfectly hung lends cozy and warm vibes to the overall ambience. Head to this place when you are in Colombo.

LOCATION- Casa Colombo, 231, Galle Rd, Colombo 00400, Sri Lanka
Never miss out on a super awesome party scene. Keep your passports ready and apply for Sri Lanka Visa today by filling up a visa application form. Visit www.sri-lankaeta.com for complete information and visa assistance.

Beruwala: An Excellent Resort Destination In Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a tear shaped island which is a home to many pristine beaches, spiritual temples, largest national parks, wildlife reserves and of course many world heritage sites. It has amazing cities that is filled with splendor and many historical sites.

Travelling to Sri Lanka is now become easier. One can easily get an eta visa Sri Lanka online which generally takes from 2-5 hours of processing time. So if you want to have international vacations you can easily head to this country.
From Colombo to Kandy, one can witness some of the most spectacular destinations when in Sri Lanka. Beruwala is one-of-a-kind resort destination which is par-off excellence and is located around 55kms south of Colombo. It is the very first beach resort in the South Western Coastal belt that tourists visit when they travel the beaches of Kalutara & Wadduwa. So those who are looking for undemanding vacations with big resorts and hotels standing shoulder to shoulder, Beruwala is the place to be.
Here is a list of exciting places one should definitely visit in Beruwala-

1. BRIEF GARDEN- Once a home of the most renowned landscape architect Bevis Bawa, the brother of famous architect Geoffery Bawa, and garden is situated in Kalavila village. Also known as ‘slice of heaven’, today this place attracts many local and foreign visitors as it is quite popular for it wonderful views and artworks.
2. BOAT SAFARI- Bentota Lagoon is popular amidst both locals and foreign tourists for boat trip safaris in Sri Lanka. A very enjoyable activity for both nature lovers and people looking for adventures, your trip to Sri Lanka would be incomplete without a boat safari as it represents a different perspective of wildlife.
3. BERUWALA BEACH- For those who love to get immersed in the pleasure of water sports activities can head to this beach. Located about 60kms away from Colombo. You can try your hands in plethora of water sports activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, snorkeling etc. The best time to visit this beach is from October to April, so plan accordingly and apply for eta visa Sri Lanka online in advance.
4. BARBERYN ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE- One of the four international lighthouses, Barberyn Island Lighthouse is situated at least 0.8 kilometers off of the town of Beruwala. Popular among tourists, it draws a massive number of people.
5. KANDE VIHARAYA- Get amazed with the tallest sitting Buddha statue in the world which is situated in Kande Viharaya in Aluthgama. A very popular tourist attraction the place is located in Kalutara district. One can also visit nine devalyas dedicated to the god Vishnu, Kataragama, Saman, Ishwara, Paththini, Sooniyam, Kaali, Gana and Senasuru Deviyo.

An attractive destination to visit, the locals offer many services to make your stay more enjoyable. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get your eta visa Sri Lanka online to visit the place. Share your experiences with us!

8 Buddhist Historical Places in Sri Lanka You Can`t Miss

Comprising a rich Buddhist culture, Sri Lanka has a large Buddhist population. There are so many great historical sites that trace back the Buddhist era. Sri Lanka is a country that is mostly popular for its beaches and national parks, but here is a treat for those who love to binge on cultural knowledge:

1. SRI MAHA BODHI: This sacred three is the oldest surviving tree in the world and is the heart of Sri Lankan Buddhism. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura was brought to Sri Lanka by Theri Sangamittaand was planted in the Mahameghavana Park in 249 BC by king It is the southern branch of the tree at Buddha Gaya in India under which the Lord Buddha gained enlightenment.

2. DALIDA MALIGAWA: Also known as the temple of tooth, this temple is the main attraction in Sri Lanka. Located in Kandy, a tooth of Lord Buddha is enshrined inside the temple in a golden casket. Therefore thousands of people come here to offer prayers. You too can visit this amazing temple by visiting to this country. Apply for your Sri Lanka eta visa online

 3. SRI PADA: This temple is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Revered as a holy site by Buddhists, it is situated on a high mountain encompassing sacred footprints of Lord Buddha and therefore many people who are interested in climbing visit this temple.
  4. RUWANWELISAYA: One of the world`s tallest stupa, Ruwanwelisaya is situated in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Built by the king Dutugamunu (140 BC), the Lord Buddha`s relic has been enshrined in this sacred stupa.
  5. KANDE VIHARAYA: The most popular tourist destination, Kande Viharaya is Aluthgama is a perfect place for worshipping. It has the tallest sitting Buddha statue in the world.
  6. KELANI VIHARAYA- The Kelani Viharaya temple is a main Buddhist temple in Kelaniya. It is considered to be one of the most sacred spots to offer prayers since it is believed that Lord Buddha set foot on this specific location.
  7. MIHINTALE- This place is considered to be the birth place of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Situated in the east of Anuradhapura on a big rock, it is surrounded by panoramic views.

8. DAMBULLA RAJAMAHA VIHARAYA – This temple is also called the Golden Rock Temple or Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in the world.
December is the perfect month to travel to Sri Lanka. If you are planning to visit this fascinating island apply for your Sri Lanka eta visa online by visit www.sri-lankaeta.com

7 Interesting Facts About Sigiriya That Will Take You To Sri Lanka

One of the most visited places by the tourists; Sigiriya is a site where a massive column of rock juts out from the green tropical forest. A 660ft tall, it is also known as ‘Lion Rock’ with a lion carved out as a large façade and an ancient kingdom on top.

The site holds the top position on the list of most visited places due to the history and few dark facts, which are associated with the place itself. You can visit this place easily from Kandy. Make sure you book your tickets in advance and attain your ETA Visa to Sri Lanka if you are looking out for a family vacation in Sri Lanka. This place will amaze you with its unbeatable frescos, construction and of course the ultimate facts which are mentioned below:

1.       The King Kasyapa who ruled from 477 to 495 CE, built the citadel that sits on the top of Sigiriya. Worried about the potential attacks from his brother Moggallana who was the rightful heir of the throne, Kasyapa chose this as his royal residence. 

2.       The rock is 200 meters high and encompasses 1200 steps, divided amongst a number of staircases till the top.

3.       Born to a non-royal concubine, king Kasyapa`s life was full of controversy. Despite having no right to the throne, he carried a revolt against his father Dhatusena, imprisoning him and eventually killing him. After killing he got his father entombed in a wall. 

4.       The rock was earlier used as a Buddhist Monastery, prior to Kasyapa`s using it as his residence. After his reign, it was once again used as a monastery till it was abandoned in the 14^th century. 

5.       King Kasyapa created a ‘mirror wall’ so finely polished that it would reflect his own reflection as he walked by. 140 meters long and 40 meters high, was once covered with the paintings of women. There are few instances left as well and can be seen today. The graffiti is of great significance for the historians, as it represents the development of Sinhala language and script. 

6.       The smart, advanced and impressive hydraulic system consists of lakes, canals, bridges, fountains, dams and underground water pumps still provide water to the site`s manicured gardens till today. 

7.       Kasyapa built a façade on the plateau halfway up in the form of a huge lion with a staircase emerging out of its mouth. This is why the place is also called ‘Lion Rock’. 

When you decided to visit the country, do not forget to witness this great piece of marvel which has so many interesting facts about it. You can get your ETA Visa to Sri Lanka easily, online from www.sri-lankaeta.com .