What Happens If You Lose Your Laos eVisa Approval Letter?

Traveling to Laos with an eVisa offers convenience and efficiency, allowing you to skip embassy visits and apply for your visa online. However, one essential document you must carry is your eVisa approval letter, which you’ll need to present at immigration upon arrival. Losing this letter can be a stressful experience, but with proper steps, you can recover and continue your journey. 

Understanding the Importance of the Laos eVisa Approval Letter

The Laos eVisa approval letter is an official document issued by the Laos immigration authorities. It confirms that your eVisa application has been approved and serves as proof of your eligibility to enter the country.

Why It’s Important:

• Immigration officials at ports of entry require the letter to validate your visa.
• It includes your visa details, such as the approval number, validity, and your personal information.

Without this letter, you may face delays, additional fees, or even denial of entry.

What to Do If You Lose Your eVisa Approval Letter

If you lose your eVisa approval letter, follow these steps to recover it and avoid complications at the border:

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

If you're expecting an eVisa approval, first, stay calm. Check your email inbox for the approval letter, as it's usually sent electronically. Don't forget to check your spam or junk folder as well, just in case the email was misdirected by your filter.

Step 2: Re-Download the Approval Letter

If you can't find the email, try logging back into the official Laos eVisa portal. Use your application number, passport number, or the email address you used to register. Most eVisa systems allow applicants to re-download their approval letters directly from the portal.

Step 3: Contact the eVisa Support Team

If you cannot access the letter online, contact the Laos eVisa customer support team immediately. Provide the following details to expedite assistance:

• Your full name (as it appears on your passport).
• Passport number.
• Application reference number (if available).
• The email address used during the application process.

Step 4: Print a New Copy

Once you recover the approval letter, print multiple copies to ensure you have backups during your trip. It’s also advisable to save a digital copy on your phone or a cloud service for added security.

Alternatives if Recovery Of Laos Approval Letter Isn’t Possible

If you’re unable to retrieve your eVisa approval letter before traveling, you still have options to resolve the issue:

Option 1: Apply for a Visa-on-Arrival

1. Travelers eligible for an e-Visa are typically also eligible for a visa-on-arrival at designated entry points.
2. Bring the following documents:
   1. A passport valid for at least six months.
   2. Two passport-sized photos.
   3. Cash for the visa fee.
3. Be prepared to explain the loss of your eVisa approval letter and demonstrate proof of your eVisa application if possible.

Option 2: Visit a Laos Embassy or Consulate

• If you’re still in your home country or a neighboring country, visit the nearest Lao embassy or consulate to apply for a new visa.
• Provide any supporting documents from your eVisa application, such as payment receipts or confirmation emails.

Consequences of Not Having Your Approval Letter

Losing your Laos eVisa approval letter can have significant consequences for your travel plans, as it is a critical document required for entry into the country. Here are some potential outcomes:

1. Delays at Immigration: Without the eVisa approval letter, immigration officials may need to verify your application manually, which can take additional time.
2. Additional Costs: You may need to pay for a visa-on-arrival or seek embassy assistance, which involves fees.
3. Risk of Entry Denial: In rare cases, if you cannot provide proof of a valid visa or application, you could be denied entry and required to return to your departure point.

Can You Enter Laos Without Your eVisa Approval Letter?

Entering Laos without your eVisa approval letter is quite difficult, as this is a very important document at immigration and airline checks. You will be denied entry or boarding even though your eVisa might be approved. Check your email or cloud storage for the soft copy to re-print, or eVisa support. In emergencies, one can try visiting an embassy, among other options, such as a Visa on Arrival, but such alternatives are not assured. To avoid any issues, always make sure you have a printed copy and a digital backup.

What to Do If Your Laos eVisa Email Confirmation is Deleted

Losing your Laos eVisa confirmation email can be very frustrating. However, there are some ways to either recover it or get the problem sorted out:

• Look in the Trash or Spam Folders of Your Email: Search your email account using keywords like "Laos eVisa" or the name of the sender for the email that you've deleted. It may have been moved accidentally into the trash or spam folder.
• Log in to the Laos eVisa Portal: Access the website of Laos eVisa and log in with your details - Application ID, email, or passport number. Most of them have options such as download and resend for approval letters of e-Visas
• Contact Laos eVisa Support: Reach out to the eVisa support team via email or their helpline, providing details such as your passport number, name, and application date. Request them to resend the confirmation email.
• Save for a Backup in Future: Save a copy of your eVisa email and approval letter to multiple locations, such as cloud storage, a USB drive, or a travel app, to avoid similar situations in the future.

Preventing Future Issues of Lost eVisa

To avoid losing your eVisa approval letter, follow these tips:

• Save and Print Multiple Copies: Print at least two physical copies of your approval letter before traveling. Store one in your carry-on and another in your checked luggage for redundancy.
• Keep a Digital Backup: Save a PDF copy on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Upload a copy to a secure cloud storage service (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) for easy access.
• Double-Check Travel Documents: Before leaving for the airport, review your travel documents, including your passport, eVisa approval letter, and any other required paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter Laos without the eVisa approval letter?

No, the eVisa approval letter is required for eVisa holders. Without it, you may need to apply for a visa-on-arrival or resolve the issue at the border.

What if I lose the letter while traveling in Laos?

Once you’ve entered Laos, the approval letter is no longer needed. However, keep your passport and entry stamps safe, as these are required for your stay and exit.

How long does it take to recover the eVisa approval letter?

If you contact the eVisa support team promptly, recovery can typically be resolved within 24–48 hours.

What should I do if I can’t access the Laos eVisa portal?

If you face technical issues, contact the eVisa support team for assistance. Provide your passport details and application ID to speed up the process.

Will a digital copy of the eVisa approval letter be enough at immigration?

While some immigration officers might accept a digital copy in emergencies, a printed copy is the official requirement. Always carry a printed version to avoid complications.

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.