02 / BIA Airport
One page for everything airside — currency, SIMs, transfers, and the departure clock — so BIA never becomes a surprise.
On Arrival
Foreign currency declaration is mandatory above $10,000 USD. 24/7 commercial bank counters and international ATMs operate throughout the arrivals hall.
Arrival hall kiosks for Dialog, SLTMobitel, Airtel, and Hutch offer tourist data packages — passport required for activation.
Use the official pre-paid taxi counter for fixed fares, or PickMe / Uber pickup zones. Direct express buses link BIA to Colombo Pettah bus station.
On Departure
Arrive at BIA a minimum of 3 hours before international departure to comfortably clear security, customs, and immigration formalities.
Providers
Local currency export is limited to LKR 20,000. Convert excess LKR back to foreign currency at airport bank counters before immigration — original exchange receipts required.
Strict restrictions apply on flora and fauna, coral, uncertified antique artifacts, and excess spice allowances. When in doubt, declare it.