Local laws
Legal proceedings in Sri Lanka are often lengthy. You may not be permitted to depart the country while legal proceedings are ongoing, and this may also apply when you are the victim of a crime.

In certain cases, Sri Lankan law permits:
arrest without warrant

• extended detention without charge or trial
• reversal of the onus of proof

Public Emergencies can be declared, and curfews imposed at short notice.

You’re subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by international standards.
Research local laws before travelling.

Drugs

Penalties for carrying or using illegal drugs are severe and include the death penalty.

Other laws

Authorities may apply the death penalty for murder or rape.
The legal drinking age is 21 years.
Always carry official photo ID. If you don’t, authorities may detain you.

In Sri Lanka it’s illegal to:

• cover your face in a way that prevents your identification
• smoke in most public places
• drink alcohol in most public places
• engage in same-sex sexual acts

You must not take photos, record video or operate a drone in High-Security Zones (HSZ), including:

• military establishments
• some government buildings
• official residences

Some HSZs may not be signposted.

It’s illegal to mistreat Buddhist images, including:

• having your back to Buddha
• posing for a photograph next to a statue of Buddha
• wearing tattoos, jewellery or clothing associated with Buddhism

Travel

• To enter Sri Lanka, you’ll need a visa in the form of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). You should do this before you travel, as there are limited facilities to obtain an ETA on arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate of Sri Lanka for the latest details.
• Airlines may require proof of certain vaccinations to travel. Check requirements with individual airlines prior to travel.
• Curfews may be implemented and travel restrictions imposed at short notice.
• The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Exchange dollars at the airport or commercial banks in major centres. Most major towns and cities have ATMs, but not all accept international cards. Hotels and major shops accept credit cards.