
How long does it take to receive visa for Laos?
We do need a copy of your visa as soon as you receive it. Q. How long will my visa take to process? A. Laos visas are usually processed within two weeks. Q. How do I get my visa? Through the embassy, or somewhere else? A. Citizens of the US and Canada can apply directly with the Lao Embassy in Washington, DC. Download the application form ...
How to get Laos visa on arrival?
The requirements for a Laos visa on arrival are as follows:
- An original passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of arrival in Laos.
- A completed visa application form signed by the applicant.
- Two recent passport-type photographs in color and with a light background.
- Cash to pay for the visa fee and additional costs if they apply
Do Americans need visa for Laos?
Travelers from the United States need to obtain a visa before being allowed entrance into Laos. A visa to Laos from America can be obtained in a number of different ways. These options include: Getting a visa on arrival . Of the three, the online eVisa offers one of the easiest and fastest ways to get ready to visit Laos for American citizens.
Is Laos a safe place to travel?
Overall, Laos is relatively safe, but there are extremely high rates of both petty crime and violent crime due to the poverty of the population. You should be vigilant and take all possible precaution measures in order to minimize the risk of something going wrong. Transportation conditions have improved a lot in the past couple of years in Laos.

Can you go to Laos without a visa?
Do I Need a Visa for Laos? A visa is required in order to enter Laos. Fines will be imposed on U.S. citizens who overstay their expired visas. A valid passport is also required to get into the country.
How much is a Laos visa on arrival?
Chinese or Vietnamese citizens applying for a visa on arrival to Laos will be charged only USD 20. The notice states that foreigners of Lao descent and their family members, or family members of Lao citizens who hold foreign citizenship, will also be charged USD 40 per person for a visa on arrival.
Which countries do not need visa for Laos?
Visa exemptionCambodia.Indonesia.Malaysia.Mongolia.Philippines.
Do I need a visa to enter Laos from Thailand?
Flying from Thailand to Laos The plane journey from Thailand to Laos takes just over an hour. On arrival at the airport, travelers must present their passport and valid visa for Laos in order to be granted access to the country.
Can I get a Laos visa at the airport?
You can get a Laos visa on arrival at the following checkpoints: Wattay International Airport. Savan International Airport. Pakse International Airport.
Can you get a Laos visa online?
The official Laos eVisa is available through an online system. Applicants who wish to obtain a Laos visitor visa are able to complete an online form with their personal details and passport information.
How long can I stay in Laos without a visa?
Free stamp Citizens coming from countries which are members of ASEAN (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) are not required to get a Visa and they are allowed to stay in Laos for 30 days.
Do I need visa for Cambodia?
Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements You will need a valid passport and a Cambodian visa to enter Cambodia. Tourist and business visas are valid for one month from the date of entry into Cambodia. Cambodia offers on-line visa processing.
Do you need visa for Thailand?
You need a valid visa to stay in Thailand. If you do not have a valid visa you will have to pay overstay penalties. You should speak to your local Immigration Office or visit the Thai Immigration website. You are legally required to have a valid passport in Thailand.
What is needed to enter Laos?
All visitors to Lao PDR must hold a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the time of entry into Laos and contain at least two blank pages for a visa stamp. It's advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.
Is the border open between Thailand and Laos?
Thailand announced the reopening of 31 land border checkpoints as of yesterday, including borders with Laos, which has yet to reciprocate. The resumption of cross-border bus services saw a flurry of Lao citizens entering Thailand by bus from Nong Khai and Mukdahan today.
Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?
Entry Requirements: You must have a valid passport and a visa (or pre-approval for a visa on arrival) to enter Vietnam. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your planned stay, and you must have at least one blank visa page. Visit the Embassy of Vietnam website for the most current information.
How much is a Cambodian visa on arrival?
$30The 30-day tourist visa is available to travelers in advance or on arrival (for most nationalities) for a cost of $30 if you get it directly at the airport. The tourist visa is single entry only, and can be renewed once for an additional 30 days for a fee of between $30 and $50.
How can a US citizen get Laos visa?
US travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at the Laos border, however this can be a lengthy process and does not guarantee an approved visa. Embassy visas involve going in person to a Laotian embassy or consulate.
Do UK citizens need visa for Laos?
The Laotian Government requires British passport holders to have a visa for entry into Laos and the easiest way to do this is apply for your visa on arrival in the country. You will need US$40 in cash and two recent passport photos for a single entry visa. Visas are issued for a stay of 30 days.
How much does the e-Visa for Laos cost?
Laos does not have a fixed price for visas; visa costs may vary depending on the nationality of the visitor. You can check the price according to y...
For how long can I stay in Laos on a tourist visa?
You can stay within the country for a maximum period of 30 days.
Should minors apply for an e-Visa to travel to Laos?
Yes, all travelers including minors who are not exempt from visa, must have a valid visa to visit Laos. You can consult our eligibility checker to...
Do I need to print the e-Visa for travel to Laos?
Yes, you must bring your printed visa and present it along with your original passport.
Do Spanish citizens need a tourist visa to travel to Laos?
Yes, all travelers with Spanish nationality are required to have a valid visa to travel to Laos.
Do I need to be vaccinated to travel to Laos?
You don’t need to present any type of vaccination certificate to travel to Laos, you can find out at your country’s International Vaccination Centr...
Do I need a visa to go to Laos?
Yes, you need a valid visa to travel to Laos. The best way is to apply for an electronic visa (e-visa).
For how long must my passport be valid to apply for a tourist visa to Laos?
To apply for a visa to Laos, the passport must be valid for more than 6 months starting from your date of entry into the country.
Do Argentinian citizens need to apply for a tourist visa to travel to Laos?
Yes, all travelers who have an Argentinian nationality need a valid visa to travel to Laos. We recommend you to apply online, it is the fastest and...
Do Colombian citizens need to apply for a tourist visa to travel to Laos?
Yes, all travelers who have a Colombian nationality need a valid visa to travel to Laos. We recommend you to apply online, it is the fastest and ea...
How long does a passport last?
All visitors need to have a passport valid for more than 180 days from the date of arrival. If your passport validity is less than 180 days, you must renew or apply for a new passport before applying for your eVisa.
How much does it cost to travel to Laos?
The trip to Laos will roughly cost $120-150/person/day for the group of 2 travelers. Depending on the hotel you choose or the activities you join, the cost can reach up to more than $200/person/day.
How long does it take to get a visa for Laos?
In general, Laos visa policy is quite easy and straight forward, that can be divided into 4 main categories: Visa online (e-Visa), Visa Free (Visa Exemption) (14-15-30 days), Visa on Arrival (30 days), and Visa or official approval required in advance for 32 blacklisted countries.
When is the best time to visit Laos?
The small, landlocked country of Laos is best visited between October and April, when the weather's warm and dry throughout. River travel is best between November and January, when high water levels make passage easy along Laos' main waterway, the Mekong River.
Is it safe to travel to Laos?
Yes, Laos is a safe place to visit, and many find it much safer than their hometowns in the west. There are occasional reports of petty theft, and the occasional bag snatching, but these can be avoided by being cautious with your belongings
Is Laos a member of ASEAN?
Laos visa exemption is granted to many countries including all ASEAN member countries and some non-ASEAN nations that have entered into mutual agreements as well as some former USSR countries.
DO I NEED A VISA TO LAOS
Yes, in order to enter Laos, most individuals would require a visa. Exempted from visa requirements are only nationals of the following countries:
WHO CAN GET A LAOS VISA ON ARRIVAL
Upon arrival, almost anyone who is not visa-exempt will apply for a Laos visa. Only residents of the following countries are unable to receive the VOA and instead have to apply to the Embassy for a visa:
TYPES OF LAOS
Depending upon the intention of entry, the Lao government issues visas. The following are the major forms of Lao visas:
EXTENDING VISAS
Visa extensions are fairly simple to obtain, but if you want to avoid overstaying your visa, you'll need to plan accordingly. Visiting the Laos immigration office on Hatsady Road in Vientiane before your visa expires is the cheapest alternative.
LAOS ENTRY RESTRICTIONS
The Lao PDR government has revoked the Arrival Service Visa at all international entry points. People traveling from a country with COVID-19 cases, like the UK, are not given visas.
SCREENING ON ARRIVAL
On arrival in Laos, there is compulsory free testing for COVID-19. Those testing positive will be admitted for treatment to the hospital.
CONCLUSION
This article answers the question, ‘ Do I need A Visa to Laos ’ and other doubts related to it.
Who Can Get a Laos Visa on Arrival?
Almost everyone who is not visa-exempt can apply for a Laos visa on arrival. Only citizens of the following countries are unable to get the VOA and have to apply for a visa at an Embassy instead:
What is a work visa in Laos?
Laos Work Visa. This visa is issued to foreigners who want to work in Laos and their family members.
Can You Extend a Laos Visa?
You can extend your Laos visa at the Immigration Department in Vientiane or the Immigration Division Office of the province you are in .
How long does a Laos visa last?
Laos Visa Requirements. When you apply for a Laos visa, you need the following: Your passport, which must be valid for at least another six months. The Laos visa application form. If you apply at an embassy, you can download it online.
How long is a transit visa valid in Laos?
Laos Transit Visa. This visa is issued to foreigners who will transit through Lao on their way to a third destination. It is only valid for seven days , and you cannot extend it. To get this visa, you need proof of onward travels.
How long does it take to get a visa?
Wait for the visa application to process. This takes about three working days unless there is a problem with your application.
Is a Lao visa valid for tourism?
The Lao eVisa is only issued for tourism purposes . For longer-term visas, you will have to get in touch with a Lao embassy/consulate.
How much does the e-Visa for Laos cost?
Laos does not have a fixed price for visas; visa costs may vary depending on the nationality of the visitor. You can check the price according to your nationality. You can also use our eligibility checker to see if you need a visa to travel to Laos.
Do I need to print the e-Visa for travel to Laos?
Yes, you must bring your print ed visa and present it along with your original passport .
What time does the border crossing between Laos and Thailand close?
Border Crossing Hours: All of the land border crossings between Laos and neighboring countries close during the night hours. The Friendship Bridge that connects Vientiane to Nong Khai, Thailand, closes from 10 p.m. – 6 a.m. daily. While it is generally possible for ambulances to cross the Vientiane friendship bridge after hours, it sometimes takes several hours to arrange for the crossing to be opened, even in cases of severe medical emergencies. Travelers should inquire locally about the hours of other border crossings. Please check the Embassy’s website updates on border closures related to COVID-19.
Where is UXO found in Laos?
UXO is found in some parts of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Saravane, Khammouane, Sekong, Champassak, Houaphan, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces.
How to get a replacement passport in Laos?
If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Laos, you must obtain both a replacement passport and an exit visa. The U.S. Embassy can issue a limited validity replacement passport expeditiously; however, the Lao government requires 3 to 5 working days to issue an exit visa. Contact the Foreigner Control Office at the Department of Immigration in downtown Vientiane for an exit visa. The office is located on Khun Bu Lom Rd. Phone: +856 21 212 520. If your lost passport causes you to exceed your authorized period of stay in Laos, you may be subject to overstay fines unless you make prior arrangements with Immigration.
What are the serious crimes in Laos?
Possession of, trafficking in, and manufacture of drugs are serious offenses in Laos and result in lengthy prison sentences or the death penalty. Some restaurants offer “happy” or “special” menu items -- particularly “pizzas” or “shakes” -- that may contain opiates or unknown substances. Consuming these items is illegal.
What is the phone number for emergency services in Laos?
For emergency services in Laos, dial 0192 (tourist police) or 0195 (ambulance).
What happens if you lose your passport in Laos?
Otherwise, you will be fined and may be arrested. If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Laos, you must obtain both a replacement passport and an exit visa.
Where to get a visa for Laos?
To obtain a visa in advance, and for other information about Lao entry requirements, please contact the Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, 2222 S St. NW, Washington DC 20008, tel: 202-332-6416, fax: 202-332-4923.
Can the Laos visa be changed once it has been processed?
No, it is not possible to make any changes once the visa is in process. If you have made a mistake, you will need to reapply and reissue the payment. The government authorities will not refund the initial fees under any circumstances.
How much does a visa to Laos cost?
Laos visa prices vary according to the nationality of the applicant. Fees range from $35 to $50 for most nationalities. There is no country of the European Union with a Laos visa fee exceeding $50. Payment must be made before sending the form. Once everything is completed and sent, you will receive your approval via email.
How far in advance do I need to apply for a Laos visa?
However, it is not recommended to leave the visa process to the last minute. To be able to deal with any unforeseen event or setback, it is always advisable to apply for a visa (eVisa) 15 days before arrival in Laos.
Is it safe to travel to Laos?
Although it is one of the least developed countries in the world, Laos is a very safe country. Like anywhere in the world that you travel, it is best to be careful not to fall victim to petty theft, although even these small thefts are rare. Be careful, in the cities of Vang Vieng and Don Dhet where it is surprisingly straightforward to buy drugs. You must remember that buying drugs in Laos is illegal, and can result in a hefty time in a Laotian prison. Driving in Laos is interesting, whether walking, cycling, motorcycling or driving. The best thing is to be patient and enjoy it without rushing.
How long is a business visa valid in Laos?
The business visa is valid for 30 days. It is straightforward to obtain, as long as the traveller has a sponsoring organisation in Laos. This business visa can be extended up to one year and can be obtained directly at the airport, at the border or the embassy of the country. The documentation required is the same as for a tourist visa, but you must also provide an invitation from the company you are going to do business with.
Do you need travel insurance in Laos?
- Having adequate travel insurance is essential, especially if you are going to do outdoor activities or adventure sports. It is not compulsory to enter the country, but it is highly recommended.#N#- Bear in mind that your shoulders must be covered. If you are going to enter a temple. You can cover yourself with a sarong. You should enter barefoot and always wear trousers below your knees.#N#- Although there are five-star hotels in Laos, most of the country's tourism is focused on backpacking. You will find many budget travellers enjoying the country’s friendly people and hospitable nature, making backpacking easy.
How to get a visa for Laos?
The requisites for the Laos eVisa are standard for international tourism and include the following: 1 Possess an American passport valid for at least 6 months on the intended arrival date in Laos 2 Have digital copies of their passport’s cover and biographical pages 3 Provide a digital copy of a recently taken ID photo (4×6 cm) – passport style 4 Supply an active email address to register their Laos eVisa request 5 Use a debit or debit card activated for online payments to pay for the eVisa processing fee
Is Laos canceled in 2021?
All flights to Laos are canceled until 31 May 2021, with the exception of emergency, humanitarian, repatriation, and medevac flights. Travelers must have a certificate from a doctor proving they had a negative coronavirus RT-PCR test result issued within 72 hours before departure from the first embarkation point. Passengers must sign a ‘Travel Consent’ letter before boarding, and are required to have a reservation for at least 14 days at a designated hotel at which to quarantine for said 14 days, as well as transport arrangements. Upon arrival in Laos, travelers may be given another RT-PCR test at their own expense and must undergo medical screening. A health declaration form must also be completed and submitted upon arrival. The only visas considered valid are those with written authorization from the Task Force Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Airline crew will be screened and must quarantine between flights.
Can I Extend My Laos Visa?
You can extend a 30 day visa for up to an additional 60 days via the Department of Immigration in Vientiane.
Can I Do A Visa Run In Laos?
Another option to get more time in Laos is to leave Laos and apply for another visa. It’s easy and cheap to get to countries such as Thailand where you can either apply for a e-Visa or get another visa on arrival and then simply re-enter the country.
How long does it take to get a business visa?
It may take a longer time for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to sanction such an approval. Usually, it takes a minimum of one month for the business visa to be processed but in case of complications, it can take even longer.
Why do passports come with blank pages?
The passport is supposed to come with blank pages so that there is sufficient space for the stamp.
Can US citizens apply for a visa in Laos?
Just as other South-east Asian countries, the government of Laos has also implemented an evisa which means that the citizens from the US can apply for a Laos visa online without the hassle of standing in queues. However, in order to do so, an applicant has to send the documents listed below to complete and submit the eVisa application form.
Does Laos have an evisa?
For expediting the procedures on arrival and crossing the border in Laos, the Immigration Departmentprovides an easy-to-obtain eVisa for Laos in addition to the other methods discussed above.
Is it better to apply for a visa online in Laos?
Applying for the Laos online visa is more beneficial than applying for a visa on arrival or getting it from the embassy beforehand. The online application definitely takes less time to complete and less time to process too thereby making the entire process smoother.
Where is Ashley Hubbard?
Ashley Hubbard is a blogger and freelance writer based in Nashville, Tennessee focusing on sustainability, travel, veganism, mental health, and more. Passionate about animal rights, sustainable travel, and social impact, she seeks out ethical experiences whether at home or on the road. She shares these experiences on her website, wild-hearted.com.
Which direction should face be facing?
Face should be facing towards the front with a neutral expression

Do I Need A Visa to Laos
- Yes, in order to enter Laos, most individuals would require a visa. Exempted from visa requirements are only nationals of the following countries: 1. Brunei (for 14 days) 2. Cambodia (for 30 days) 3. Indonesia (for 30 days) 4. Japan (for 15 days) 5. Luxembourg (for 15 days) 6. Malaysia (for 30 days) 7. Mongolia (for 30 days) 8. Myanmar (for 14 days...
Who Can Get A Laos Visa on Arrival
- Upon arrival, almost anyone who is not visa-exempt will apply for a Laos visa. Only residents of the following countries are unable to receive the VOA and instead have to apply to the Embassy for a visa: 1. Afghanistan 2. Algeria 3. Bangladesh 4. Burundi 5. Cameroon 6. Congo 7. Congo 8. Eswatini 9. Ghana 10. Guinea-Bissau 11. Ivory Coast 12. Iran 13. Iraq 14. Jordan 15. Lebanon 16…
Laos Visa Requirements
- A Passport which must be valid for a further six months at least.
- The application form for a Laos visa. You can download it online if you apply for it at an embassy. You will get the application form on the plane or at the checkpoint/airport if you apply for the...
- Two recent passport-size photographs, with a white background and neutral facial expressio…
- A Passport which must be valid for a further six months at least.
- The application form for a Laos visa. You can download it online if you apply for it at an embassy. You will get the application form on the plane or at the checkpoint/airport if you apply for the...
- Two recent passport-size photographs, with a white background and neutral facial expressions.
- Evidence of residence in Laos, like hotel bookings.
Types of Laos
- Depending upon the intention of entry, the Lao government issues visas. The following are the major forms of Lao visas: 1. Tourist Visa- This visa is given to foreigners who, as visitors, want to visit Laos. On arrival or online, most individuals may get a Lao tourist visa. 2. Business Visa- Foreigners who, for investment, data collection, or other business purposes, wish to come to La…
Extending Visas
- Visa extensions are fairly simple to obtain, but if you want to avoid overstaying your visa, you'll need to plan accordingly. Visiting the Laos immigration office on Hatsady Road in Vientiane before your visa expires is the cheapest alternative. Visa extensions are issued here at a cost of $2 per day and the maximum extension period is fifteen days. Alternatively, in order to arrange t…
Laos Entry Restrictions
- The Lao PDR government has revoked the Arrival Service Visa at all international entry points. People traveling from a country with COVID-19 cases, like the UK, are not given visas. However, the Lao authorities may recommend granting special entry permits to foreigners who wish to come to Laos (experts, technicians, and foreign nationals necessary for important projects). Ent…
Screening on Arrival
- On arrival in Laos, there is compulsory free testing for COVID-19. Those testing positive will be admitted for treatment to the hospital. Enhanced health screening is in operation and the Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam border crossings are closed. You should provide additional time to include this option and, if traveling by air, check with your airline. Anyone traveling to Laos wit…
Conclusion
- This article answers the question, ‘Do I need A Visa to Laos’ and other doubts related to it. Apply Laos Visa