LAOS VISA – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Nowadays, Laos Government has open door policysfor tourists and getting Lao visas is much easier than before. Besides the traditional way to get the visa at Embassy or Consulates, travelers can now apply the visa upon arrival at three international airports in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse, and at various land borders with other neighbor countries (Thailand, Vietnam and China).

The former way is sometimes more preferred sine visa is all set and no worry upon arrival. It savesthe waiting time from long queue at the airport, especially during holidays. To get Lao visa before arrival, contact the nearest Embassy/Consulate in your country for the procedure and the fees.

Tourist visa on arrival is normally valid for 30 days. The compulsory documents you need to prepare are: your passport valid for at least 6 months and 1 empty page for visa stamp; visa application form, 2 photos passport-sized, and visa fee (USD 30-45). If you wish to get the longer visa, you should obtain the visa at Embassy/Consulate.

Besides getting the visa at 3 international airports, the tourist can obtain the visa at 9 crossing borders with between Laos and Thailand, /Viet Nam and China.

Border between Thailand and Laos

Nongkhai Friendship Bridge Chiang Khong / Huay Xai Xayabouly / Nam Heuang Friendship Bridge Friendship Bridge II at Mukdahan / Suvannakhet Chongmek / Champassak

Border between Vietnam and Laos

Nam Kanh / Nong Haet in Xieng Khouang Province Kao Cheo / Nam Phao Lao Bao / Dene Savanh Savannakhet Province

Border between China and Laos

China - Mohan / Boten (Luang Namtha)