Overview
Since July 2019, Laos has run a self-service e-Visa at laoevisa.gov.la, open to citizens of around 162 eligible countries — most nationalities that aren't already visa-exempt for short ASEAN-neighbor visits. You apply, pay, and receive an approval letter by email, then get the actual visa sticker on arrival. It's genuinely faster than queuing for visa-on-arrival, and the government explicitly states the possession of an e-Visa isn't by itself the final authority to enter — an immigration officer still checks you in on arrival.
Visa categories
| e-Visa — Tourism | Single entry, up to 30 days (up to 60 days for some nationalities, e.g. Myanmar citizens). |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival | Available to eligible nationalities at major entry points, paid in cash — slower than the e-Visa route. |
| Embassy visa | Required for business, conferences, or medical purposes — not covered by the tourism e-Visa. |
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from arrival, with at least 2 blank pages
- Scan of the passport's personal information page
- Recent digital photo meeting passport photo standards (formal attire required)
- Return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds (not always checked, but recommended)
- Credit or debit card for the fee
Step-by-step application process
1. Confirm your eligibility
Check your nationality against the current eligible list at laoevisa.gov.la.
2. Complete the online form
Fill in personal, passport and travel details.
3. Upload your documents
Attach your passport scan and photo per the stated specifications.
4. Pay the fee ($45–50 USD, depending on nationality)
Pay online by card.
5. Receive your approval letter by email
Bring a printed copy along with your passport — the actual visa sticker is affixed by immigration officers on arrival.
Fees & processing time
| Fee | $45–50 USD, varies by nationality |
|---|---|
| Processing time | 3–5 business days |
| Stay length | 30 days (60 for some nationalities), valid 60 days from approval for entry |
Sources reviewed: laoevisa.gov.la (official Lao e-Visa portal, Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Wikipedia's Visa policy of Laos, cross-referenced third-party guides for fee figures. Eligible-country lists and fees change — always confirm on the official portal before applying.