Applying for a Laos E-Visa as a Family or Group

Laos, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people, has become a popular destination for families and groups seeking an unforgettable travel experience. To make entering the country easier, Laos offers an e-visa system that streamlines the application process for tourists. Applying for a Laos e-visa as a family or group is straightforward, but understanding the steps and requirements will save you time and effort.

What Is the Laos E-Visa and its Purpose?

The Laos eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign visitors to enter Laos for tourism or business purposes. Introduced to simplify the visa process, the E-Visa enables eligible travelers to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate.

Its main purpose is to make travel to Laos more convenient and accessible by reducing the time and effort needed for visa applications. This system supports the country’s goal of boosting tourism and fostering international business opportunities.

Benefits of Applying as a Family or Group

Laos eVisa offers several benefit to applicants:

Simplified Process: One person can manage the application for the entire group, saving time.
Centralized Payment: You can pay for all applications in one transaction.
Convenience: Travel documentation is organized and easily accessible.

Eligibility for Group Applications for the Laos E-Visa

Group applications for the Laos E-Visa are available for families, friends, or organized travel groups traveling together. Each member of the group, regardless of age, must meet the general eligibility criteria for the E-Visa, including:

Citizenship: All applicants must be from countries eligible for the Laos E-Visa.
Passport Requirements: Each group member needs a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the intended date of entry into Laos.
Purpose of Visit: The E-Visa is typically granted for tourism or short-term business visits only.
Travel Together: Members of the group should plan to enter Laos together, as their E-Visas will be processed collectively.

While a single individual (such as a parent or group leader) can manage the application for everyone, the system requires detailed information and documents for each person, including children and infants. It’s essential to ensure all members meet the requirements to avoid delays or complications.

Documents Required for Family and Group Applications for the Laos E-Visa

In case of a family or group application for the Laos E-Visa, each member of the family or group is supposed to present the following documents:

A valid Passport: A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of entry. A clear scan of the biographical page of the passport
Passport-Sized Photo: A recent color photo of each member according to passport photo requirements. The application usually requires digital format during application.
Travel Itinerary: Details about your arrival and departure, including flight or travel bookings, if any.
Accommodation Details: Address and confirmation of your stay in Laos, including a hotel reservation or invitation letter.
Payment Method: Credit or debit card for the members to pay for the E-Visa processing fees.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- For children: The birth certificate or proof of relationship may be asked for.
- For Business Visits: Invitation letter or Supporting letter by hosting organization.

Documents Required for Family and Group Applications for the Laos E-Visa

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Laos E-Visa as a Family or Group

Here’s a simple guide to help you apply for a Laos E-Visa as a family or group:

Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready for each member of your group:

A scanned copy of the passport bio-data page.
A recent passport-sized photograph (digital format).
Passport validity of at least six months from the planned date of entry.
Details of your travel itinerary (entry and exit points, accommodation details).

Step 2: Visit the Official Laos E-Visa Website

Access the official Laos e-visa portal.

Select the “Group Application” option on the portal.
Enter the details of the primary applicant, who will be responsible for managing the Laos E-Visa application and communication.

Step 3: Add Members to the Group Application

Add each member’s details, including:
- Full name (as it appears on the passport).
- Nationality.
- Passport number and expiry date.
- Date of birth.
- Travel details (entry point, planned arrival date).
Upload the required documents (passport scan and photo) for each member.

Step 4: Review and Confirm Information

Carefully review the details entered for each family or group member. Errors in passport numbers, names, or travel dates can lead to delays or rejections.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

The e-visa fee typically ranges per person, depending on your nationality. Payments can be made online using a credit or debit card.

Group applications allow you to make a single payment for all members, simplifying the transaction.
Keep a copy of the payment receipt for reference.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Laos E-Visa as a Family or Group

How to Pay for a Group Laos E-Visa Application

Paying for a group Laos E-Visa is easy and done online. Once you’ve entered the details for all group members, the total fee will be calculated. You can pay with a credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment methods such as Visa or MasterCard. Once paid, you will be given a confirmation receipt to prove this, which you must keep.

Ensure that the card has sufficient funds and is approved for international payments. If your payment fails, try another card or contact the e-visa support team for help.

Processing Times and Approvals for Group E-Visa Applications for Laos

The processing time for group E-Visa applications is generally the same as for individual applications. Here’s what to expect:

Standard Processing Time: Group applications are typically processed within ... after submission.
Recommended Application Window: To account for potential delays, it’s advisable to apply at least 7 days before your intended travel date, especially for larger groups.
Factors Affecting Processing Time
1. Document Accuracy: Errors or missing information in any group member’s application can delay the entire group’s approval.
2. Peak Travel Seasons: Applications during holidays or high tourism periods may take slightly longer.
Approval Notifications: The group leader or the applicant managing the process will receive an email once the E-Visas are approved. All approved E-Visas can then be downloaded from the portal.

Entry to Laos with an E-Visa

Upon arrival at an approved entry point, present the following:

A printed copy of your e-visa approval.
Your passport (must match the details on the e-visa).
Additional documents (if requested, such as return tickets or proof of accommodation).

At immigration, the e-visa will be verified, and you’ll receive a stamp allowing entry.

Laos Entry Points for Families and Groups Traveling with E-Visas

Families and groups traveling to Laos with an E-Visa can enter through specific entry points. Here are the main entry points:

Airports:

Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
Luang Prabang International Airport (Luang Prabang province)
Pakse International Airport (Champasack province)

Land Borders:

Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Nong Khai – Vientiane)
Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II (Mukdahan – Savannakhet)
Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge IV (Chiangkhong – Houixay)
Boten International Checkpoint (Luang Namtha province)
Boten Railway Station (Luang Namtha province)

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying as a Family or Group

Here’s a table highlighting common mistakes to avoid when applying for a Laos E-Visa as a family or group:

Mistake	Explanation	How to Avoid
Missing Documents for One Member	Failing to submit required documents (passport copy, photo) for every member.	Ensure all documents are uploaded for each member.
Incorrect Personal Details	Entering incorrect or mismatched information (name, passport number) for any member.	Double-check all details before submitting the application.
Not Applying Early Enough	Applying too close to the travel date, leading to delays.	Apply at least a week in advance to account for delays.
Paying Incorrect Fees	Not calculating the total fee correctly for all members.	Verify the total amount before proceeding with payment.
Overlooking Passport Validity	Not checking that all passports are valid for at least six months from the intended date of entry.	Ensure each passport has enough validity for entry.
Not Following Photo Requirements	Submitting photos that don't meet the size or quality standards.	Follow the photo specifications provided in the guidelines.
Failure to Manage Group Entries	Forgetting to apply for every group member under the same application.	Apply for each family or group member within one application.
Not Printing the E-Visa	Forgetting to print multiple copies of the approved E-Visa for each member.	Print and carry multiple copies of the E-Visa for each traveler.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Apply Early: Apply at least 7–10 days before your travel date to account for processing delays or errors.
Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all details before submitting the application to avoid rejections.
Monitor Email: Keep an eye on your email for updates or requests for additional information.
Group Coordination: Ensure all group members have passports that meet the 6-month validity rule.
Use a Reliable Internet Connection: Uploading documents and completing forms online requires a stable connection.

Group Laos eVisa Application vs. Individual Applications: Which is Better?

Here's a comparison of group and individual E-Visa applications for Laos to help you decide which option is best for you:

Factor	Group E-Visa Application	Individual E-Visa Application
Convenience	One application for all members, saving time and effort.	Each person must apply separately, which takes more time and effort.
Cost	One payment for the whole group, which can simplify the process.	Payment must be made separately for each individual.
Eligibility	All members must meet the same criteria and travel together.	Each person can apply individually and meet the specific requirements.
Processing Time	Usually faster because all information is submitted at once.	Can take longer as each application is processed separately.
Flexibility	Requires all group members to travel together to use the same E-Visa.	Each person can apply on their own, allowing flexibility in travel plans.
Error Handling	A mistake in one person’s application can delay the entire group.	Errors are isolated to one person’s application, without affecting others.
Documentation	All members need to submit their documents together, requiring careful organization.	Documents must be submitted individually, but with less coordination required.

Which is Better?

Group E-Visa is better for families or groups traveling together, as it saves time, reduces paperwork, and simplifies the process.
Individual Applications are better if group members have different travel plans or if you want more flexibility in the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, children of all ages require a separate e-visa. Ensure their application is included in the group submission, and provide their passport and photo.

If one member’s application is rejected, the group application will proceed for the others. The rejected individual must reapply with corrected details.

Yes, as long as the travel dates fall within the validity period of the e-visa (typically 60 days from the date of issuance).

No, the e-visa specifies an entry point. Ensure the group enters Laos at the same approved border crossing.

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in January 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.