Visa required for Laos

Laos is the least developed country in Southeast Asia. Moreover, it is the only one of them that has no access to the sea. These two characteristics make Laos an exception within the group of neighbouring countries, and many tourists choose this destination when they are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and civilization. Obtaining a visa to enter Laos is neither more difficult nor very different from that of any of the neighbouring countries, but there are certain aspects to be taken into account during the process.

Take a note of what you need in order to travel to Laos.

How to obtain a visa for Laos

There are two ways to obtain a visa for Laos, either by applying for one upon arrival in the country or online. In either case, the visa is valid for one entry into the country only.

Note: If you choose the online version of the Laos visa, please note that it is only valid for entry by air. If you are entering Laos by land, do not manage 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 apply for a visa on arrival, also called an “on arrival” visa. You can do this at all border crossings in Laos, both on land and at airports. This means that if you don’t want to, you don’t have to do anything in advance, as is the case with the Myanmar visa. All you have to do is go to the immigration checkpoint at the border where you will be entering the country and have the following documents:

• Your passport in order and at least 6 months old at the time of your entry.
• A passport size photo
• Fill out the immigration form that will be given to you at the border crossing
• Pay the corresponding fees. The cost of the fee is $50, although you can also pay in euros. If you do so in the latter case the officials will probably make the change 1 $ = 1 euro. If you enter Laos from Thailand and have Thai Baht available, you can also pay the fee in that currency.

If everything is in order, the officials will put the sticker and stamp on your passport and you will be able to enter the country.

Electronic visa for Laos

It is also possible to obtain the visa for Laos electronically, although you should note that the electronic visa is only valid if you are entering Laos by air.

Again, please note: do not take any steps to obtain your visa for Laos electronically as 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 are travelling with us, our offices in Thailand or Vietnam will handle all visa arrangements when necessary so that you do not have to worry about anything.

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