Arranging a journey to Laos? Finding out if you require a visa to travel to Laos should be among your first priorities.
The following information will make it simple for you to get ready for your trip by guiding you through Laos’s visa requirements.
Do you need a visa to travel to Laos?
- Who Needs a Visa?
Most visitors to Laos will require a visa, though the specific requirements may differ based on your country of residence.
For visits up to 30 days, citizens of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries are not required to have a visa to enter Laos.
To enter Laos, visitors from the majority of countries must obtain a visa.
- Types of Visas
You can apply for a number of various types of visa to travel to Laos, including business, student, and tourist visas.
The tourist visa is the most applicable for most visitors and is best suited for short-term stays, leisure travel, and sightseeing in Laos.
Read: Vietnam Visa for US Citizens – Application Guide & Tips
How to Get a Visa for Laos?
Applying at the Embassy, using an e-visa, or getting a visa on arrival is 3 primary methods to get a visa for Laos.
1. Visa on Arrival
Travelers from most countries can get this at major entry points like airports and border crossings. Usually, it is good for 30 days.
- A valid passport
- Two passport-sized photos
- A completed visa application form (available at the entry point)
- Visa fees (typically $30–$45, depending on nationality) are required to get a visa on arrival.
2. E-Visa
Laos provides a service for electronic visas, or e-visas. Applying online to your trip is possible. Also, an e-visa normally has a 30-day validity period.
- Visit the official Laos e-visa website
- complete the online application
- attach a passport-sized photo
- pay the visa fee online to apply for an e-visa.
- Your e-visa approval letter will be sent to you via email once you have been accepted.
eVisa fee calculator – CLICK HERE
3. Visa at the Embassy
A Lao consulate or embassy in your country of residence is another place you can apply for a visa. Those who would rather have their visa before leaving or who require a visa for extended stays can use this method.
To apply,
- Find the Lao embassy or consulate that is closest to you
- Get the necessary paperwork together (passport, photos, application, and fee)
- Send your application by mail or in person
- Then wait for your visa to be processed and returned.
Laos official online visa – CLICK HERE
Extending Your Stay
- You can apply for an extension if you want to stay longer than your visa allows.
- Travel agencies that provide visa extension services or the Immigration Office in Vientiane are the two places where a tourist visa can be extended for an extra 30 days.
- Be advised that if you overstay your visa to travel to Laos, you may be fined $10 per day.
Important Tips
Having medical insurance for travel is a good idea because there might not be as many medical facilities in some places.
Learn about the laws and customs of the area as well to guarantee a courteous and easy visit.
How long does Laos eVisa take?
An eVisa for Laos normally takes 3 business days to process.
In advance for any unexpected holdups or extra processing time that might be needed, it is advised to apply for your eVisa at least one week before the date of your departure.
Bottom Line
Whether you choose to apply for an e-visa, an embassy, or a visa on arrival, getting a visa to travel to Laos is usually simple.
To guarantee a trouble-free travel experience, make sure to verify the particular requirements for your nationality and make advance plans.
You will be ready to explore Laos’ stunning scenery and vibrant culture if you have made the necessary preparations.
Read: Is it Hard to Get a Malaysia Work Visa?
