Requirements for the Lao Visa
If you are planning to visit Laos, you may need a visa to enter the country. One of the most convenient ways to obtain a visa for Laos is through the online eVisa application system. The Lao eVisa is a single-entry visa that allows visitors to stay in Laos for up to 30 days. Applying for a Lao eVisa requires some documents and information that need to be provided during the online application process.
The Lao eVisa application process is straightforward and can be completed in a few steps. Applicants need to fill out an online application form and upload some supporting documents, including a passport copy, a recent passport-style photograph, and an eVisa fee payment. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive an eVisa Approval Letter via email, which they need to present to the Immigration officer upon arrival at the port of entry.
Required Documents For The Lao eVisa
If you are planning to apply for a Lao eVisa, it is important to ensure that you have all the required documents and meet the eligibility criteria. Here are the documents you will need to apply for a Lao eVisa:
Photograph size 4x6 cm (have been taken no longer than 6 months): You need to upload a recent passport-sized color photograph (4x6 cm) of yourself, which has been taken within the last 6 months. The photograph should be clear, with a white background, and without any headwear or accessories that cover your face or ears. The photograph should show your full face, with both eyes open, and the mouth closed. The photograph should be in JPEG, PNG, or BMP format, and not exceed 2 MB in size.
Passport cover page: You need to upload a scanned copy of the cover page of your passport. The cover page of your passport includes information such as your name, passport number, and the country of issue. The scanned copy should be clear and readable, with all information visible. The document should be in JPEG, PNG, or BMP format, and not exceed 2 MB in size.
Passport bio page: You also need to upload a scanned copy of the bio page of your passport. The bio page is the page that contains your personal information, including your photograph, name, date of birth, passport number, and expiration date. The scanned copy should be clear and readable, with all information visible. The document should be in JPEG, PNG, or BMP format, and not exceed 2 MB in size. It is important to note that the photo of the passport should cover the whole bio page, including its MRZ (two lines at the bottom of the page).
Note:The MRZ (Machine Readable Zone) is a two-line code at the bottom of the passport's bio page that contains important information such as the passport holder's name, passport number, and date of birth. When uploading a photo of the passport's bio page for the Lao eVisa application, it is important to ensure that the entire page, including the MRZ, is visible and clear. This is because the information contained in the MRZ is used to verify the authenticity of the passport and ensure that the applicant is eligible for the Lao eVisa. If the MRZ is not visible or clear in the uploaded photo, it could result in delays or even the rejection of the eVisa application. Therefore, it is important to double-check the photo before submitting it to ensure that it meets the requirements and shows the entire bio page of the passport.
It is important to note that additional documents may be required, depending on your specific circumstances. For example, if you are traveling for business purposes, you may need to provide a letter of invitation from a company in Laos. If you are traveling with a minor, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate.
It is essential to carefully review the requirements and ensure that you have all the necessary documents before submitting your Lao eVisa application. Providing incomplete or inaccurate information can result in delays or even the rejection of your application.
General Document Requirements for Lao Visa through the Embassy-
If you plan to obtain a Lao visa through the embassy or consulate, the following are the general document requirements that you need to fulfill:
A completed visa application form: You will need to fill out a visa application form, which you can obtain from the Lao embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to provide your personal information, purpose of visit, and other details on the form.
A valid passport: You must have a valid passport with a minimum of six months of validity remaining beyond the date of your entry into Laos.
Passport size photographs: You will need to provide two passport size photographs taken recently, with a white background.
Flight itinerary: You should have a confirmed round-trip or onward flight ticket.
Accommodation booking confirmation: You will need to provide a confirmed reservation for your accommodation in Laos.
Proof of financial means: You must provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in Laos, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer indicating your salary.
Visa fee: You will need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of origin.
Note that the specific document requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your country of origin. It is recommended to contact the Lao embassy or consulate in your country for further information on the document requirements for your visa application.
Required Documents for Laos Visa on Arrival
The following are the required documents for a Laos visa on arrival:
Passport: A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into Laos is required.
Visa on Arrival Application Form: You will need to fill out a visa application form at the port of entry. This form is usually provided on arrival, but you can also download and fill it out in advance to save time.
Passport Photo: One recent passport-sized photo (4cm x 6cm) is required. The photo should have a clear white background.
Visa Fee: You must pay the visa fee in cash (US dollars or Lao kip) at the port of entry. The fee varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for.
Travel Itinerary: You may be asked to provide a copy of your travel itinerary, including details of your accommodation, return flights, and other travel arrangements.
Proof of Funds: You may be asked to show proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in Laos. This could include cash, credit cards, or bank statements.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: If you are arriving from a yellow fever endemic country, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
It is important to note that the requirements for a Laos visa on arrival may vary depending on your nationality and the port of entry. It is recommended that you check the latest visa requirements with your nearest Laos embassy or consulate before you travel.
FAQ
The photograph size for the Lao eVisa application should be 4x6 cm and it should have been taken no longer than 6 months.
Yes, a valid passport is required for the Lao eVisa application.
The photo of the passport for the Lao eVisa application should cover the entire bio page including its MRZ (two lines at the bottom of the page).
Yes, you can apply for a Lao visa through the embassy without an invitation letter, but you may need to provide additional documents such as proof of accommodation, flight tickets, and financial support.
The processing time for a Lao visa through the embassy varies depending on the type of visa and the embassy. It is recommended to check with the embassy for the processing time.
Yes, nationals of certain countries can apply for a Lao visa on arrival at the airport. However, it is recommended to check the visa requirements beforehand and ensure that you have all the necessary documents.