Journalist Visa

Prior visas must be obtained by journalists/media personnel who expect to visit Sri Lanka on an assignment. In addition to the visa application form, they are required to submit a list of equipment that they intend to take to Sri Lanka on the prescribed form. Journalists are advised to apply for visas well in advance, as the Embassy needs clearance from the authorities in Colombo to issue visas for them.

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Required documents

 

  • Duly filled Application for Business Visa – See Downloads
  • Original Passport (minimum validity of 6 months beyond the period of stay)
  • Two recent passport-size colour photographs
  • A letter of Commission from respective media organization (for freelance journalists, a letter from the Editor of a reputed publication)
  • Equipment list for electronic media along with a carnet or bank guarantee for customs purpose
  • Confirmation is required of the travel arrangements, copy of return air ticket or flight itinerary obtained from a Travel Agent
  • Letter of undertaking that the equipment will be re-exported
  • Relevant Visa fee

Media Accreditation will not be recommended by the Foreign Ministry for any media personnel arriving in Sri Lanka on tourist visa, or those who obtain their visas on arrival. Please visit www.mfa.gov.lk/guidelines-for-foreign-media, for more details:

Public Diplomacy Division
Foreign Ministry

Tel:
+94 112 473 944
+94 112 437 633
+94 112 473 946

Email:
[email protected]
[email protected]

Web: http://www.mfa.gov.lk/guidelines-for-foreign-media

Address:
Foreign Ministry
Republic Building
Colombo 1
Sri Lanka

Note: Please see the necessary guidelines on COVID-19 situation in Sri Lanka and applicable regulations at https://srilankaembassy.at/category/news/covid-19/