DESTINATION PROFILE: LAOS
Visa Info & Requirements
1. Visa Types and Requirements
Tourist Visa:
Purpose: For leisure travel, tourism, or visiting friends and relatives.
Validity: Typically valid for 30 days, with the possibility of extension.
Application Methods:
- Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available at designated entry points for eligible nationalities.
- e-Visa: Available for citizens of eligible countries, allowing online application prior to travel.
- Embassy/Consulate Application: Apply directly at a Lao embassy or consulate before traveling.
Requirements:
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, with at least two blank pages.
- Completed Visa Application Form.
- Passport-sized Photos: Typically two recent photos.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Laos.
- Return/Onward Ticket: Evidence of departure from Laos.
- Visa Fee: Varies depending on nationality and application method.
Business Visa:
Purpose: For attending business meetings, conferences, or engaging in commercial activities.
Validity: Can be issued for durations of 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year, with multiple entries.
Requirements:
- All documents listed under Tourist Visa.
- Letter of Invitation: From a Lao-based company detailing the purpose and duration of the visit.
- Company Registration Documents: Proof of the inviting company’s legal status.
- Employment Verification: Letter from your employer confirming your position and the purpose of travel.
- Work Permit and ID Card: Applicants typically need to first enter Laos under another visa type, then obtain a work permit and ID card before the business visa can be issued.
Work Visa:
Purpose: For foreign nationals employed by a Lao-based company.
Validity: Generally issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to one year, with the possibility of extension.
Requirements:
- Employment Contract: Duly notarised.
- Company’s Incorporation Documents: Proof of the company’s legal status.
- Proof of Applicant’s Qualifications: Relevant diplomas and certificates.
- Work Permit: Issued by the Lao Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare.
2. Application Procedures
Visa on Arrival (Not recommended for African passport holders):
Procedure:
Arrival: Present required documents at designated entry points.
Processing Time: Typically processed within 15-30 minutes upon arrival.
Fee: Payable upon entry; ensure you have the exact amount in cash (USD is commonly accepted).
E-Visa:
Procedure:
- Application: Submit online through the official Lao e-Visa portal.
- Processing Time: Typically 3 working days.
- Fee: Varies by nationality; payable online (approximately $50).
- Entry Points: e-Visa holders can enter Laos through specific ports, including Wattay International Airport and the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I.
- Embassy/Consulate Application:
- Procedure:
- Submission: Apply in person or by mail at the nearest Lao embassy or consulate.
- Processing Time: Varies; typically 5-7 working days.
- Fee: Varies by embassy and visa type.
Important Considerations
- Have printed copies of your visa approval (if applicable), accommodation bookings, return or onward tickets, and proof of sufficient funds.
- Adhere to the duration and purpose of your visa. Overstaying can result in fines, penalties, and potential future entry bans.
- Immigration officers may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and financial means. Answer confidently and truthfully.
- Ensure you have any necessary vaccinations and carry relevant health documentation if required.
- Regularly check official sources for any updates or changes to visa policies and entry requirements before your trip.
- Travel with between $1000 to $2000 cash. It acts as both proof of funds and as an emergency fund for any unexpected setbacks during your travel.