Laos Visa on Arrival: Eligibility, Documents, Fees & Application Requirements
Laos Visa on Arrival: Eligibility, Documents, Fees & Application Requirements
Last Updated: 1 September 2026
Laos offers visa facilities for foreign travellers entering the country, including Visa on Arrival (VoA) at designated entry points and an official eVisa system for eligible nationalities.
The exact visa requirement depends on the traveller’s nationality, passport type, purpose of travel and entry point. Travellers should verify the current rules before travelling.
Laos also has an official online eVisa system operated by the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The official portal currently provides tourist eVisa applications and lists eligible nationalities and designated entry points.
Quick Facts About Laos Visa on Arrival
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Visa on Arrival / Tourist Visa |
| Online Alternative | Laos eVisa |
| Tourist eVisa | Available for eligible nationalities |
| Standard eVisa Stay | 30 days |
| eVisa Entry | Single entry |
| Passport Validity | More than 180 days / 6 months |
| Passport Type for eVisa | Ordinary passport |
| eVisa Processing | Usually 3 working days |
| eVisa Validity | Up to 60 days after Approval Letter |
| Passport Photo | Required for eVisa |
| Passport Copy | Required for eVisa |
| Accommodation | Address during visit required for eVisa |
| Return/Next Destination | May be requested |
| Final Entry Decision | Lao immigration authorities |
The official Lao eVisa system states that the tourist eVisa provides a 30-day stay, is single entry, and the approval letter is valid for up to 60 days after issuance.
Who Can Get a Laos Visa on Arrival?
Laos provides Visa on Arrival facilities at designated immigration checkpoints for eligible travellers.
However, Visa on Arrival eligibility is nationality- and entry-point-specific. Therefore, travellers should check the current requirements before departure.
It is important not to assume that every nationality can obtain a Laos Visa on Arrival.
Some nationalities may instead need to:
- Obtain a visa from a Lao embassy or consulate.
- Apply for the Lao eVisa, if eligible.
- Meet additional immigration requirements.
The official Lao eVisa website maintains a separate list of nationalities eligible to apply for eVisa.
Laos Visa on Arrival Eligible Nationalities
Laos does not apply one universal visa rule to all nationalities.
Eligibility should be checked based on:
- Passport nationality
- Passport type
- Purpose of travel
- Intended entry point
- Current Lao immigration regulations
For your website, I recommend using a nationality eligibility checker rather than publishing a permanent list and treating it as guaranteed eligibility.
This is particularly important because Laos maintains different arrangements for visa exemption, eVisa eligibility and Visa on Arrival.
Laos Visa on Arrival Requirements
Travellers applying for a Laos tourist visa should generally prepare:
- Valid passport
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Passport photograph
- Visa fee
- Travel information
- Accommodation information
- Return or onward travel information, where requested
For the official Lao eVisa, applicants must provide personal information, passport details, travel information and upload a passport bio page and photograph.
Laos Visa on Arrival Documents
1. Valid Passport
Your passport should generally have at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival.
The Lao eVisa terms specifically require the passport to have a minimum validity of six months from arrival.
2. Passport Photograph
A recent colour passport photograph may be required.
For the Lao eVisa, the official requirements specify:
- 4 × 6 cm
- Colour photograph
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Plain white background
- Face looking directly at the camera
- Neutral expression
3. Passport Bio Page
For eVisa applications, applicants must upload a clear image of the passport bio page, including the machine-readable zone (MRZ).
4. Accommodation Details
The official eVisa application asks applicants to provide their address during the visit.
5. Next Destination
The eVisa application also provides a field for the traveller’s next destination.
6. Visa Fee
The applicable visa fee depends on the traveller’s nationality and visa type.
The official Lao eVisa website provides a nationality-based fee calculator.
Is Laos Visa on Arrival Available Online?
The Visa on Arrival itself is obtained at an eligible immigration checkpoint.
However, Laos also provides an official eVisa system that allows eligible travellers to apply online before travelling.
Therefore:
Visa on Arrival: Apply at the eligible entry point.
eVisa: Apply online before travelling.
The official Lao eVisa website states that applicants can complete the application, upload documents, pay online and download the eVisa approval letter.
Laos eVisa – Online Application
Eligible travellers can apply through the official Lao eVisa portal.
Application Process
Step 1: Visit the official Lao eVisa website.
Step 2: Enter your email address and verification information.
Step 3: Complete the online application.
Step 4: Enter personal and passport information.
Step 5: Enter travel details.
Step 6: Upload your passport bio page.
Step 7: Upload your passport photograph.
Step 8: Review the information.
Step 9: Pay the applicable visa fee.
Step 10: Receive the eVisa Approval Letter.
The official system states that the normal processing time is 3 working days after submission and payment, provided the information meets the requirements. Processing can take longer if additional information is required.
Laos eVisa Fee
The Laos eVisa fee varies according to nationality.
The official Lao eVisa website provides a fee calculator where applicants select their nationality to determine the applicable fee. Bank charges are excluded from the displayed visa fee.
Therefore, avoid publishing one fixed fee for every nationality.
Laos eVisa Validity & Stay
According to the official Lao eVisa information:
- eVisa validity: Up to 60 days after receiving the Approval Letter
- Permitted stay: 30 days
- Entry: Single entry
The traveller must enter Laos using the same passport that was used for the eVisa application.
Laos Visa on Arrival Entry Points
Visa and eVisa services are available only at designated immigration checkpoints.
The official Lao eVisa website currently lists these eVisa entry points:
Airports
- Wattay International Airport – Vientiane
- Luang Prabang International Airport
- Pakse International Airport
Land Borders
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge IV
- Boten International Checkpoint
Railway
- Boten Railway Station
- Khamsavath Railway Station
Important: The list above relates specifically to eVisa entry points. Visa-on-Arrival availability can differ by checkpoint, so travellers should verify their specific entry point before travel.
Laos Visa on Arrival Process
Step 1 – Check Your Nationality
Confirm that your passport is eligible for Visa on Arrival.
Step 2 – Check Your Entry Point
Make sure the airport or border checkpoint you plan to use provides the applicable visa service.
Step 3 – Prepare Your Documents
Carry:
- Passport
- Passport photograph
- Accommodation information
- Return/onward travel details
- Visa fee
Step 4 – Arrive in Laos
Proceed to the relevant immigration/visa counter.
Step 5 – Submit Your Application
Provide the required documents and information.
Step 6 – Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable fee according to your nationality and visa category.
Step 7 – Immigration Processing
The immigration authorities review the application.
Step 8 – Enter Laos
Once approved and cleared by immigration, you can enter Laos.
Laos eVisa Fee
The Laos eVisa fee varies according to nationality.
The official Lao eVisa website provides a fee calculator where applicants select their nationality to determine the applicable fee. Bank charges are excluded from the displayed visa fee.
Therefore, avoid publishing one fixed fee for every nationality.
Laos eVisa Validity & Stay
According to the official Lao eVisa information:
- eVisa validity: Up to 60 days after receiving the Approval Letter
- Permitted stay: 30 days
- Entry: Single entry
The traveller must enter Laos using the same passport that was used for the eVisa application.
Laos Visa on Arrival Entry Points
Visa and eVisa services are available only at designated immigration checkpoints.
The official Lao eVisa website currently lists these eVisa entry points:
Airports
- Wattay International Airport – Vientiane
- Luang Prabang International Airport
- Pakse International Airport
Land Borders
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge IV
- Boten International Checkpoint
Railway
- Boten Railway Station
- Khamsavath Railway Station
Important: The list above relates specifically to eVisa entry points. Visa-on-Arrival availability can differ by checkpoint, so travellers should verify their specific entry point before travel.
Laos Visa on Arrival Process
Step 1 – Check Your Nationality
Confirm that your passport is eligible for Visa on Arrival.
Step 2 – Check Your Entry Point
Make sure the airport or border checkpoint you plan to use provides the applicable visa service.
Step 3 – Prepare Your Documents
Carry:
- Passport
- Passport photograph
- Accommodation information
- Return/onward travel details
- Visa fee
Step 4 – Arrive in Laos
Proceed to the relevant immigration/visa counter.
Step 5 – Submit Your Application
Provide the required documents and information.
Step 6 – Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable fee according to your nationality and visa category.
Step 7 – Immigration Processing
The immigration authorities review the application.
Step 8 – Enter Laos
Once approved and cleared by immigration, you can enter Laos.
Laos Visa on Arrival vs eVisa
| Feature | Visa on Arrival | eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Application | At eligible entry point | Online before travel |
| Pre-travel approval | No | Yes |
| Eligible nationalities | Depends on VoA rules | Official eVisa eligible list |
| Tourist stay | Depends on visa issued | 30 days |
| Entry | Designated checkpoints | Designated eVisa checkpoints |
| Passport | Required | Required |
| Passport validity | Generally 6 months | More than 6 months |
| Photo | May be required | Required |
| Processing | At arrival | Usually 3 working days |
| Entry | Subject to immigration approval | Subject to immigration approval |
Laos Visa on Arrival for UAE Residents
UAE residency itself does not automatically determine whether a traveller qualifies for Laos Visa on Arrival.
Eligibility should be checked according to the traveller’s passport nationality.
A UAE resident travelling on an eligible passport should check the applicable Laos visa rules before travelling.
Laos Visa on Arrival for Indian Citizens
Indian passport holders should check the current Lao immigration rules before travelling.
Indian travellers should verify whether they qualify for:
- Visa on Arrival
- Lao eVisa
- Visa exemption
- Embassy/consular visa
The Lao eVisa system maintains an official nationality eligibility list, which should be checked before applying.
Laos Visa on Arrival for Pakistani Citizens
Pakistani passport holders should verify their current eligibility before travelling.
Visa requirements can depend on nationality and the applicable Lao immigration arrangements.
Travellers should not assume that Visa on Arrival is available solely based on residence in another country.
Laos Visa on Arrival for Bangladeshi Citizens
Bangladeshi passport holders should verify the latest Lao visa requirements before travelling.
If eligible, they may use the applicable Visa on Arrival or eVisa process.
Laos Visa on Arrival for Filipino Citizens
Filipino passport holders should check the current Laos visa requirements before travel.
Where eligible, travellers may use the applicable VoA or eVisa facility.
Laos Visa on Arrival for Sri Lankan Citizens
Sri Lankan passport holders should check the current Lao immigration requirements and nationality eligibility before travelling.
The appropriate visa route can depend on the current rules and intended entry point.
Laos Visa on Arrival for Children
Children and infants generally require their own visa where a visa is required.
The official Lao eVisa FAQ specifically states that children and infants must have a visa to enter Laos.
Parents or guardians should therefore check the applicable requirements for every child travelling with them.
Important Laos Visa Rules
1. Passport Must Be Valid
The official Lao eVisa system requires more than 180 days of passport validity from the date of arrival.
2. Ordinary Passport for eVisa
The official eVisa system states that only ordinary passports are eligible for the eVisa.
3. Same Passport Must Be Used
The passport used for the eVisa application must be presented when entering Laos.
4. eVisa Approval Letter Is Important
Travellers approved for eVisa must carry the eVisa Approval Letter when travelling. The official website states that it should be presented to immigration at the arrival port.
5. eVisa Is Single Entry
The Lao eVisa is currently valid for single entry only.
6. eVisa Processing Takes Around 3 Working Days
The official processing time is normally 3 working days, although additional time may be required in some cases.
7. Entry Is Still Subject to Immigration Approval
Possessing an eVisa does not automatically guarantee admission into Laos. The final decision rests with Lao immigration authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laos Visa on Arrival available?
Yes. Laos provides Visa on Arrival facilities at designated entry points for eligible travellers.
Can I apply for Laos Visa on Arrival online?
The Visa on Arrival itself is obtained at the applicable entry point. However, eligible travellers can apply online for a Lao eVisa before travelling.
How long can I stay in Laos with an eVisa?
The Lao tourist eVisa currently permits a stay of 30 days.
How long is the Laos eVisa valid?
The eVisa is valid for up to 60 days after receiving the Approval Letter.
How long does Laos eVisa processing take?
The normal processing time is 3 working days after the completed application and payment are received.
Is Laos eVisa single entry?
Yes. The official Lao eVisa FAQ states that the eVisa is single entry.
How much does Laos eVisa cost?
The fee depends on the applicant’s nationality. The official Lao eVisa portal provides a nationality-based fee calculator.
Do I need a passport photo for Laos eVisa?
Yes. A passport photograph is required. The official specifications include a 4 × 6 cm colour photograph taken within the last six months.
How much passport validity is required for Laos?
The official Lao eVisa system requires the passport to have at least 6 months validity from the arrival date.
Can UAE residents get Laos Visa on Arrival?
It depends on the traveller’s passport nationality. UAE residence alone does not determine eligibility.
Can Indian citizens get Laos Visa on Arrival?
Indian citizens should check the current official Lao visa rules and entry-point requirements before travelling.
Official Laos Visa Information
For the most accurate and current information, travellers should use the official Lao Government immigration and Ministry of Foreign Affairs websites.
Lao Official eVisa Portal:
Official Lao eVisa Portal
Lao eVisa – Eligible Nationalities:
Official Lao eVisa Eligibility List
Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lao PDR
