Laos is the least developed country in Southeast Asia. It is also the only one without access to the sea. These two characteristics make Laos an exception among its neighbouring countries, and many tourists choose this destination when they are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and modern life. Obtaining a visa to enter Laos is neither more difficult nor very different from getting one for some neighbouring countries, but there are certain aspects you should bear in mind during the process. Take note of what you need to be able to travel to Laos.
How to obtain a visa for Laos
There are two ways to obtain a visa for Laos: applying for a visa on arrival or doing it online. In either case, the visa is valid for one entry only.
Note: If you choose the online version of the visa for Laos, please bear in mind that it is only valid for entry by air. If you are entering Laos by land, do not apply for your visa online, as you will be wasting your money.
Visa on arrival
The easiest and most convenient way to obtain a visa for Laos is to arrange the visa on arrival, also known as the on-arrival visa. You can complete this process at all Lao border checkpoints, both land crossings and airports. This means that, if you prefer, there is no need to complete any prior formalities, as is the case with the visa for Myanmar. You simply need to go to the immigration control point at the border where you will enter the country and have the following documentation:
- Your passport must be valid and have at least 6 months remaining at the time of entry.
- One passport-size photo.
- Complete the immigration form that you will be given at the border crossing.
- Pay the corresponding fees. The fee is $50, although you can also pay in euros. If you pay in euros, officials will most likely use the exchange rate of $1 = €1. If you enter Laos from Thailand and have Thai baht, you can also pay the fee in that currency.
If everything is in order, the officials will place the visa sticker and the corresponding stamp in your passport, and you will then be able to enter the country.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”15483″ img_size=”full”][vc_column_text]
Electronic visa for Laos
It is also possible to obtain a visa for Laos electronically, although you should bear in mind that the e-visa is only valid if you enter Laos by air.
Again, please remember: do not apply for your visa for Laos online, because if you plan to enter the country by land, this visa will not be valid and you will have to pay the fees again.
If you book a tailor-made trip to Laos with us, our offices in Thailand or Vietnam will take care of processing all visas whenever needed, so you do not have to worry about anything.
