A Guide to the Laos eVisa for the British Citizens

If you are a citizen of the United Kingdom and plan on visiting Laos, then applying for an eVisa is an efficient and straightforward way to obtain entry authorization. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the Laos eVisa application process, requirements, and benefits for U.K. citizens.

What is the Laos eVisa for UK Citizens?

The Laos eVisa is an electronic travel authorization for tourists to visit Laos. The eVisa will make it easier to apply for a visa without having to physically visit an Embassy or Consulate in the UK. This can even be done online to make it more convenient and time-saving. The eVisa is a single-entry visa, meaning it can only be used for one entry to Laos, and it allows a stay of up to 30 days.

Benefits of Applying for the Laos eVisa for the U.K. Citizens 

Laos eVisa offers several benefits to British travelers. They include:

Convenience: Applying for the Laos eVisa online eliminates the need to visit an embassy, and the entire process can be completed from the comfort of your home.

Fast Processing: Ordinarily, the eVisa from Laos takes up to 1 - 3 Hours in the case of regular processing; quicker alternatives are possible, though.

Cost-Effective: The eVisa is quite reasonably-priced for citizens of the U.K. as the fees compared to traditional methods of acquiring a visa are quite realistic.

Ease of Entry: Your approved eVisa will be delivered to the email address you provide, after which you can print it and present it at the Laos immigration checkpoint.

Laos eVisa Eligibility for U.K. Citizens

UK citizens are only eligible if their trip is for tour purposes. If it's business, employment, or long-term stay then this eVisa shall not be issued to them. You would need to meet the ensuing basic requirements: 

• Be a UK citizen holding a valid passport. 
• You have the passport that does not end for at least 6 months from the intended date of entry into Laos.
• Be visiting for tourism in Laos, and not for working, studying, or immigrating to the country.

Laos eVisa Requirements for U.K. Citizens

Following is a list of documents that needs to be prepared by the applicant while applying for the Laos eVisa:

• Valid Passport: The applicant needs to possess a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry in Laos. The passport should have a minimum of one blank page for entry stamps.

• Passport-Size Photo: You will be required to provide a recent digital passport photo that meets the size and format requirements.

• Travel Information: You will be asked for your intended travel dates, where you will stay, and your flight information.

• Credit or Debit Card: You will have to provide a means of payment to make the visa fee payment online.

• Valid Email Address: Once approved, the eVisa will be forwarded to your email address; thus, you should provide an active and accessible email address.

How U.K Citizens Can Apply for a Laos eVisa Online

Applying for a Laos eVisa online can be done in 3 simple steps:

Access the Application Website

Complete the Form and Upload Documents

Pay and Download Your eVisa

Step-by-Step Guide to the Laos eVisa Application for U.K. Citizens

The application process for the Laos eVisa is relatively easy and includes only a few steps:

Step 1: Access the Application Portal

Go to the official website for the Laos eVisa to begin your Laos eVisa application form. Make sure to access it through the official site because using third-party services will add an additional fee to your application.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Fill in your personal details, including your name, passport number, nationality, and travel information. Double-check all entries for correctness before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

You will be required to upload a scanned copy of the bio page of your passport and a recent passport-sized photo. Ensure that the scanned files are in the right size and format as specified on the application portal.

Step 4: Pay for the Visa

The Laos eVisa fee for U.K. citizens usually varies depending on how fast you need your eVisa among other factors. You can pay this fee securely online using a credit or debit card.

Step 5: Submit and Wait for Approval

After submitting your application and making the payment, your eVisa will be processed. The standard processing time is approximately 5 - 7 Working Days, though expedited processing is available for an additional fee.

Step 6: Download and Print Your eVisa

Once your application is approved, the eVisa will be sent to your email. Print a copy of your eVisa and carry it with you while going to Laos. You will be asked for this at the immigration checkpoint on arrival.

Processing Time for Laos eVisa for the U.K. Citizens

Here are options concerning the processing time for British travelers:

• Standard Processing: The standard service processes your Laos eVisa in 5 - 7 Working Days.

• Urgent Processing: This is a faster service and allows for processing to take place in 3 - 5 Working Days.

• Super Urgent Processing: If you want the fastest, the super urgent service processes the eVisa in 1 - 3 Hours.

These two options are available at an extra cost and are highly beneficial to those who need the visa as soon as possible.

Processing Fees of the Laos eVisa for the U.K. Citizens

The general Laos eVisa fee to U.K. citizens varies in regard to the processing speed one will choose. These are general prices one has to pay: 

• Standard Service: this is the most budget option, taking around 5 - 7 Working Days..
• Urgent Service: Urgent service costs a little more money than the former one but in just 3 - 5 Working Days.
• Super Urgent Service: The super urgent service is the most expensive, with the highest fee, and promises to process it within 1 - 3 Hours.

Make sure to check the exact fees on the official Laos eVisa portal when you apply because the fee may change at any moment depending on the exchange rates or system updates. Keep in mind that some of the additional service charges could be added if you select the expedited processing option.

Period of Entry and Stay with the Laos eVisa

When approved, the Laos eVisa allows UK citizens to stay in Laos for up to 30 days. It is a single-entry visa, meaning once you leave Laos, you will not be able to re-enter using the same eVisa. If you desire to stay longer, then you'll have to make an application for a visa extension with the immigration office in Laos. Typically, extensions are possible for another period up to 30 days, which can always be worked on until your visa date expires. It is best to inform yourself with the local immigration office regarding extension requirements. Overstaying your electronic travel visa without a valid extended visa will include fines, possibly even deportation. That being said, keep careful track of the dates to avoid problems at entry or exit.

How Can I Extend Lao eVisa as a UK citizen?

As a citizen of the U.K., you cannot extend your Laos eVisa directly. In such a case, if you want to stay in Laos for more than 30 days, you'll need to apply for a visa extension through the immigration office in Laos before your eVisa has expired. Extensions are usually granted for up to an additional 30 days.

To extend your stay, apply to the immigration office in Laos with your passport and the completed extension application form. There might be a fee for the extension. It is advisable to file an application at least several days in advance of when your current eVisa expires to avoid any chance of problems in the extension process.

In case such an extension is not possible or you would like to stay longer, you may have to leave Laos and reapply for a new visa upon your return. Please note that you should always contact the local immigration office for the most recent information concerning extension requirements and fees.

Advantages of the Laos eVisa Over Visa on Arrival

While U.K. citizens can also opt for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport or border, the eVisa offers several advantages:

• No Waiting in Lines: The eVisa eliminates the need to wait in long queues at the airport or border crossings.
• Convenience: Apply online from anywhere in the world, without having to visit an embassy.
• Smarter Processing: Generally, eVisa processing is faster, compared to the VOA application process, especially when urgent and super-urgent options are available.
• Avoid Risk of Rejection: The eVisa is pre-processed to minimize the risk of rejection at arrival due to incomplete or incorrect paperwork.

Important Information for Laos eVisa Applicants from U.K.

• The Laos eVisa fee is non-refundable.
• The eVisa is valid for single entry only.
• Only ordinary passport holders can apply for the Laos eVisa.
• Travelers must present the same passport used for the eVisa application when entering Laos. This passport must match the one declared at the departure checkpoint. Failure to do so may result in denial of entry.

Note: Always ensure that the passport used for your eVisa application is the same one you use to enter Laos, as discrepancies can cause entry issues.

What are the other Laotian visa options for British Citizens?

In addition to the Laos eVisa, British citizens have several other visa options for traveling to Laos, depending on their specific travel needs. Here are the most common visa options:

Frequently Asked Questions

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.