Complete Laos eVisa Guide 2025

Laos is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, rich Buddhist culture, and numerous temples. When planning a trip to Laos, many tourists often ask whether a visa is required to enter the country and how to apply for a Laos e-visa online. Our article below is a complete guide to help you easily obtain your Laos e-visa.

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What is the Laos evisa?

Launched by the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a Laos eVisa is an electronic travel permit that allows eligible foreign travelers to enter and stay in Laos for tourism, business, or other short-term purposes. This online visa system streamlines the traditional application process by allowing applicants to complete everything digitally without having to visit an embassy or consulate.

The Lao eVisa facility is available for the following countries: see the list. The citizens of these countries can apply Laos evisa via the official website https://laoevisa.gov.la/index.

What are the types of Laos e-visa? (2025 update)

• Tourist evisa: the easiest and most frequently used for tourism, sightseeing, or leisure.

• Short-term business evisa: for meetings, conferences, or short-term work assignments.

• Transit eVisa: For travelers passing through Laos en route to another destination.

• Special-entry visas: available for diplomats, researchers, or participants in international events.

General validity: 60 days from the date of issue.

Entry requirement: Travelers must enter Laos within this validity period.

Stay duration: Maximum 30 days per entry for tourist and business eVisas.

Laos eVisa Fee & Processing Time

• Standard Fee: $50 US (varies by nationality) + $2 transaction fee

• Payment Method: Major international credit and debit cards, and selected secure digital payment options

• Processing Time: Typically 3-5 business days for standard applications.

Note: The Laos eVisa fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected or incomplete.

Which ports allow foreigners to enter Laos with an e-visa?

Laos eVisa is not valid for all border crossings. Currently, only 8 entry points accept the use of the e-visa for entry into Laos, which are:

• Wattay International Airport (Vientiane Capital)

• Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane Capital)

• Luang Prabang International Airport (Luang Prabang Airport)

• Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II (Savannakhet Province)

• Pakse International Airport (Champasack Province)

• Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge IV (Bokeo Province)

• Boten International Checkpoint (Luang Namtha Province)

• Boten Railway Station (Luang Namtha Province)

What Are the Requirements for the Laos eVisa?

Applicants must prepare the following documents when applying for a Lao eVisa:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months from the date of entry into Laos.

• Passport-sized color photo with a white background and in JPG format. Please CLICK HERE for more reference

• Copy of passport information page (PDF format)

• Confirmed return ticket or travel itinerary

• Proof of accommodation, like a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host in Laos.

• Sufficient financial means for stay (e.g., recent bank statements, proof of funds).

How to Apply for the Laos eVisa Step by Step?

Applying for a Laos eVisa is simple and can be completed entirely online. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:

1. Access the Official Laos eVisa Portal

2. Create an Account & Select Visa Type

• Register with your email address to create a secure account.

• Choose the appropriate visa type (e.g., Tourist eVisa, Business eVisa, or Transit Visa).

3. Complete the Application Form

• Fill in personal details (name, nationality, passport number, travel dates).

• Double-check accuracy to avoid delays or rejection.

4. Upload Required Documents

• Passport information page (PDF format)

• Passport-sized color photo (JPG, white background)

• Proof of travel itinerary and accommodation

• Ensure all files meet the required format and size.

5. Pay the Visa Fee Online

• Payment is made via credit or debit card.

• Fees vary depending on visa type but are typically around USD $50.

6. Wait for Processing

• Standard processing time: 3–5 working days.

• You will receive email updates once your application is reviewed.

7. Receive & Print Approval Letter

• Once approved, the eVisa approval letter will be sent to your email.

• Print the letter and carry it with you when traveling to Laos.

• Present it at immigration checkpoints along with your passport.

For a visual walkthrough of the entire Cambodia eVisa process, you can also watch our detailed step-by-step guide HERE

Important notes on the Laos e-visa

• Apply Early: Submit your eVisa application at least one week before travel to allow for processing time.
• Document Quality: All uploaded documents (passport copy, photo, itinerary) must be clear, readable, and in the correct format (JPG/PDF).
• Email Confirmation: The approval letter is sent via email. Sometimes it may land in your spam or junk folder, so check carefully.
• Carry Printed Approval: Immigration officers require a printed copy of your eVisa approval letter along with your passport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply for a Laos eVisa on arrival?

No. The Laos eVisa must be applied for online before travel through the official portal. Visa-on-arrival is available at certain checkpoints, but the eVisa is faster, more secure, and avoids long queues.

2. Can I apply for a group visa?

Yes, you can apply for a maximum of 20 people per invoice.

3. Can I extend my stay in Laos?

The standard eVisa allows a 30-day stay. Extensions are not available online; you must apply in person at the Immigration Office in Vientiane or other designated offices. Approval depends on your circumstances and may involve additional fees.

4. How can I check my visa status?

You will get the application ID after submitting the documents and proceeding with the payment. You can use your application ID and your passport number to check on your visa status at the Laos eVisa Status Enquiry

Yes. Each traveler, including children, must have their own eVisa. Parents or guardians can submit applications on behalf of minors.

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The Laos eVisa process in 2025 is designed to be convenient, simple, and secure. By applying online, travelers save time at the border or the airport and enjoy a smoother entry experience. Don’t forget to apply early (at least one week before travel) and use the official Laos eVisa portal to avoid scams.

Need help with your Laos eVisa application? Contact our support team.

Hotline (Whatsapp/Wechat/Viber): +84 969 255 515

Email: support@vietnamvisavoa.com