Laos Visa on Arrival

Laos, the landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is a popular tourist destination for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and historical landmarks. Whether you are planning to explore the lush jungles, the serene rivers, or the majestic temples, you will need to obtain a Laos Visa to enter the country. Fortunately, Laos offers a convenient visa on arrival (VOA) service for travelers arriving at certain ports of entry.

An Overview of Laos Visa on Arrival

The VOA service for Laos is an entry convenience for travelers who plan a short-term sojourn in the country. It allows visitors to enter Laos and obtain a visa upon arrival, instead of having to apply for one in advance at an embassy or consulate. The VOA permits stays of up to 30 days and is available at major international airports, including Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Luang Prabang International Airport, and Pakse International Airport. It is further offered at all land border checkpoints, including Friendship Bridge and Nam Phao.

The VOA makes it easier for many, but this is not applicable for all nationalities. Prospective travelers should first check their eligibility with a Laotian embassy or consulate in advance of embarking on travel. For the qualifying customers, the VOA offers the least complicated and the most efficient means of starting their journey into scenic landscapes and the cultural treasures of Laos.

Entry Points Offering Laos Visa on Arrival Services

Here are the entry points offering Laos Visa on Arrival (VOA) services, categorized by type:

Airports

• Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
• Luang Prabang International Airport
• Pakse International Airport

Land Border Crossings:

There are also a number of land border checkpoints where a visa can be obtained upon arrival to Laos, including the following:

Your Entry Ticket to Laos: Visa on Arrival

Who is Eligible to Apply for a Laos Visa on Arrival

The Laos Visa on Arrival is available to travelers from most countries, offering a convenient option for short-term visits. However, eligibility depends on specific criteria:

1. Citizenship: Citizens from eligible countries listed by the government can apply. Some nationalities may need to obtain a visa in advance either online for Laos eVisa or from an embassy or consulate.
2. Purpose of Visit: The visa is primarily for tourism, short-term business trips, or transit purposes.
3. Duration of Stay: Travelers intending to stay in Laos for up to 30 days are eligible.
4. Travel Documentation: Applicants must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry.
5. Entry Points: Eligible travelers can apply for the visa on arrival at specific airports and land border checkpoints designated for this service.
6. Previous Visa History: Some travelers with a history of overstaying their visas in Laos or other countries may face restrictions.

Here is the full list of countries eligible for the Laos Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Note

It’s essential for travelers to verify their eligibility and the latest visa policies before their trip, as regulations may vary by nationality and change over time.

Required Documents for Laos Visa on Arrival Application

Here are the Laos Visa requirements for obtaining a Laos Visa on Arrival:

• A valid Passport: It should have a validity of at least six months beyond the date of your departure from Laos, be signed by the bearer, not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years), have at least one or two free “visa pages,” and undamaged pictures securely affixed to the passport.
• A Recent Passport Photo: The photo should be no older than 6 months, with a frontal view of the face covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo, a uniform and white background, clear facial features and eyes not covered by hair or glasses frame, and a size of 4x6.
• Travel Itinerary: You need to provide flight tickets (return ticket) and accommodation confirmation/reservation (hotel booking, house contract, apartment reservation, etc.).
• Proof of Financial Sources: You need to provide bank statements, cash, travelers' cheques, vouchers, etc.

Note: Additional documents may be required by the border control.

Processing Time for Laos Visa on Arrival

The processing time for a Laos Visa on Arrival can vary depending on the number of travelers applying for visas, the time of day, and any other unforeseen circumstances that may arise. In general, the processing time for a Laos Visa on Arrival can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. It is recommended that travelers arrive at the airport well in advance of their departure time to allow for any potential delays in processing the visa. It is also advisable to have all the necessary documentation and fees ready to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Laos Visa on Arrival Fee

The Laos Visa on Arrival fee vary depending on the nationality of the traveler among other factors. As for the payment method, it is correct that the visa fee for Laos Visa on Arrival is usually paid in cash, and it is possible to pay in USD. However, it is always a good idea to carry enough cash in the local currency of Laos (Laotian Kip) to cover any unforeseen expenses or situations. It is also important to note that some countries may have restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought in or taken out, so it is best to check the latest regulations before traveling.

Where to Apply for Laos Visa on Arrival?

To apply for a Laos Visa on Arrival at certain border crossings, such as airports and land border checkpoints. However, it is important to note that not all border crossings offer this service, and it is always best to check the latest regulations and requirements before traveling.

To apply for a Laos Visa on Arrival, travelers will need to present their passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, and the appropriate visa fee in cash. It is also advisable to have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds to cover their stay in Laos.

It is important to note that some nationalities may not be eligible for a Laos Visa on Arrival and will need to apply for a visa in advance through a Laos embassy or consulate.

Extending Your Stay in Laos: Options for Visa on Arrival Holders

If you are a traveler in Laos on a Visa on Arrival and wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 30-day period, there are a number of options available. Here's what you need to know:

1. Apply for a Visa Extension

You can request an extension at the Department of Immigration in Vientiane or other immigration offices across Laos. This extension is usually given in 7, 14, or 30 days, based on your needs and eligibility. The cost of an extension, however varies, usually takes the per-day form.

2. Border Runs

Immigrants can leave Laos for any of its bordering countries and then return to get a new VOA.

Border points commonly used include those shared with Thailand, Vietnam, or Cambodia. This option needs careful planning in line with the visa policies and entry conditions.

3. Change to Another Class of Visa

In case you reason for stay changes - tourist to business or student, then you apply for a different class of visa from immigration department or Laos embassy/consulate.

Tips for a Smooth Extension Process

– Apply for extensions well before your visa expires to avoid penalties.

– Keep all necessary documents ready, including your passport and visa approval slip.

– Have sufficient money to cover extension fees and other expenses.

Benefits of Laos Visa on Arrival

There are several benefits of getting a Laos Visa on Arrival:

• Convenience: Ideal for travelers who can't apply in advance through a Laos embassy or consulate.
• Speed: Quick processing, usually completed within minutes to a ....
• Flexibility: Available at select airports and land border checkpoints, allowing entry at convenient locations.
• Cost-effective: Typically cheaper than applying for a visa in advance.
• Wide Eligibility: Open to citizens of most countries, making it accessible to many.
• Tourism Boost: Supports Laos' efforts to attract more visitors and promote its tourism industry.

Drawbacks of Laos Visa on Arrival

While there are many benefits to getting a Laos Visa on Arrival, there are also some drawbacks to be aware of:

1. Short Validity: The Laos Visa on Arrival is typically valid for 30 days. If you need a longer stay, you must apply for an extension, which can be time-consuming and costly.
2. No Guarantee of Approval: While most travelers can obtain a Visa on Arrival, approval is not guaranteed. You may be denied entry if you don’t meet the eligibility requirements or if there are issues with your application.
3. Limited Availability: This visa is available only at certain border points, such as specific airports and land border checkpoints. If you enter through a location without this service, you’ll need to apply for a visa in advance.
4. Long Waits at Border Crossings: Even at available border crossings, delays and long queues may occur, which can be frustrating if you're in a hurry or have connecting flights.
5. Cash Payment Required: The visa fee must be paid in cash, which may be inconvenient for travelers without sufficient funds. While ATMs or currency exchange services may be available, they aren’t always reliable.
6. Limited Activities: The Laos Visa on Arrival is only valid for tourism purposes. If you plan to work or engage in other activities, you’ll need a different type of visa.

Differences Between Laos Visa on Arrival and eVisa

Which to Choose: Laos Visa on Arrival or eVisa?

• Choose Visa on Arrival If you want flexibility, book on very short notice, or plan to enter Laos through an international airport or land border that offers Visa on Arrival, choose it. This is convenient for a sudden journey, but the only option to pay for a visa is in cash.
• Choose eVisa if you want to avoid some delay at the border or the convenience of applying online in advance. Ideal for planners who know well in advance that such a visa will be approved long before arrival.

Each of these options is valid for a stay of usually up to 30 days; hence, it shall depend on one's traveling style or entry preference.

FAQ

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.