does laos require a visa

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 ...

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.

Do I need travel visa for Laos?

Travelers who wish to visit Laos will need to meet the Laos Visa requirements to be eligible to apply online. The online visa for Laos has been introduced to make it easier for foreign travelers to visit the country. The Laos online visa requirements include a valid passport, an email address, and a debit card.

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

Can you go to Laos without a visa?

Visitors to Laos must obtain a visa from one of the Laotian diplomatic missions or online unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries or qualify for visa on arrival. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months.

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.

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.

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 apply for Laos visa online?

Visitors can now apply for the Laos eVisa for their trip. The Laos eVisa or Laos Approval Letter grants visitors a stay of up to 30 days in the country. The online visa for Laos has been officially launched and is now available through an online application form.

Do US citizens need a visa for 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.

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.

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.

Is Laos open for tourist now?

There is no longer a travel ban on certain countries and visitors can arrive from any nation, providing they meet the COVID-19 requirements. Laos fully reopened to international tourists on May 9, 2022. Visitors from across the globe can now enter, they must apply for a Laos visa, unless from a visa-exempt country.

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.

How long can foreigners stay in Laos?

30 daysTourist visas on arrival are available at certain ports of entry, and generally permit a stay of 30 days. You can extend the visa up to an additional 60 days through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane. At certain ports of entry, you can use an eVisa.

How do I get a long term visa in Laos?

For longer-term visas, you will have to get in touch with a Lao embassy/consulate. You can apply for up to five people in a single application....Applying for a Laos OnlineComplete the online application form.Attach the required documents: ... Pay the online application fee. ... Wait for the visa application to process.More items...

Can foreigners live in Laos?

The foreigners are eligible for on-arrival visas. They can receive a visa to live in Laos for more than 90 days through multiple entry business visa. You can also obtain a work permit and ID to work there.

Can Americans retire in Laos?

You might be shocked to learn that Laos does not provide retirement visas to foreigners who wish to retire in the nation. This begs the question of how you may retire in Laos without a retirement visa. Fortunately, there are several solutions accessible (unofficial retirement options).

Do I Need a Visa for Laos?

Yes, most people will need a visa to enter Laos. Only citizens of the following countries are exempt from visa requirements:

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:

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

Citizens Exempted from Laos Visa

Though the listed countries are exempted from a visa to enter Laos based on Laos visa policy, there are various lengths of stay, depending on which country’s citizenship you have. These countries include:

How to Apply for a Laos Visa

To apply for a Laos visa, you have three possible methods (depending on your nationality), they include:

Types of Laos Visas Available

Depending on what your purpose of entering Laos is, there are various visas you can apply for. These include Tourist, Business, Transit, Work, Media, Student, and Spouse visas.

Laos Visa Requirements

To ensure your Laos visa application process go as smooth as butter, please make sure you have the following in place and ready:

Lao Visa FAQ

A successfully applied Lao tourist visa is typically valid for a maximum of 30 days. If you applied online (for the eVisa), please remember you have 60 days to use the visa approval letter to make entry to Laos soil.

How long does it take to get an eVisa in Laos?

Usually, within 3 working days after approval, the applicant receives the approved eVisa by email. For tourism purposes, it allows a short stay. There are also less than ten nationalities for whose residents visas on arrival are required, which they can obtain at almost all ports of entry once in Laos.

How long does a visa last in Laos?

Laos does not require a visa for holders of diplomatic and service passports for up to 30 days.

How long does a passport last?

An applicant must also possess a passport valid for at least 6 months after the intended arrival date, as well as submit a copy of the biographical page of the passport, along with a passport-style recent photograph. As part of the application, applicants must also indicate the expected date of arrival, as well as provide proof of accommodation while in the country.

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.

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.

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.

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Do I Need A Visa to Laos

Who Can Get A Laos Visa on Arrival

Laos Visa Requirements

Types of Laos

Extending Visas

Laos Entry Restrictions

Screening on Arrival

Conclusion