Laos Short-Term Visa
Types of Laos Short-Term Visa
Laos provides 2 short-term eVisa options, based on the purpose of travel.
Travel Visa
- Used strictly for tourism and leisure travel.
- Suitable for holidays and personal trips.
- Covers visits to cultural sites and natural attractions.
- Does not permit business, study, or work-related activities.
Visit Visa
- Used for visits to friends, relatives, or host organisations.
- Covers family functions and personal visits.
- Includes non-paid meetings with a host company or government office.
- Allows visits based on invitation or personal connection.
How can travellers choose the correct visa type?
Pick the visa category that fits your main reason for travelling, not the extra things you might do.
Laos Short-term Visa Validity and Duration of Stay
Each Laos short-term visa has a fixed validity period and permitted stay duration.
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Visa | 60 days | 30 days |
| Visit Visa | 60 days | 30 days |
Note: The immigration officer at the border decides how long you can stay in Laos, and this period might be shorter than your visa's validity.
Requirements for the Laos Short-term Visa
- A Valid Passport: The applicant must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry into Laos.
- Applicant Photo: Provide a recent photograph in digital format.
The document list is simple, but reviewing the complete Laos visa requirements can help you avoid delays or mistakes.
Can I travel with a digital copy of my Laos visa?
Yes, travellers can carry a printed or digital visa. Carrying both is recommended.
Laos Short-term Visa Application Process
- Step 1: Visit the Laos eVisa Application portal and select Apply eVisa to begin.
- Step 2: Enter the required details and choose your preferred processing speed.
- Step 3: Review the information and upload the necessary documents.
- Step 4: Pay the visa fee and wait for your eVisa approval.
What are the processing times for a short-term visa to Laos?
Normal: 5 - 7 Working Days; Rush: 3 - 5 Working Days; Super Rush:1 - 3 Working Days. Faster options incur an additional fee in addition to the Lao Visa fee and service fee.
Renewal and Extension of the Laos Short-term Visa
Laos travel visas and visit visas can be extended, subject to approval by the Lao immigration authorities.
- Extensions are granted based on the visa type and individual circumstances.
- Applicants are required to pay a fee for an extension.
- Applications must be submitted before the visa expiry date.
- Overstaying may result in fines or future entry restrictions.
What if the visa extension is not granted?
The applicant should leave Laos before the stay expires and reapply for a Laos eVisa to re-enter.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in March 2026, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.
