Visas are required for all nationalities (subject to exceptions for Japanese, Swiss, Luxembourg and Russian citizens as of February 2013). For people holding a normal passportm including ASEAN countries, the passport should be valid at least 6 months. Visas can be obtained from Lao Embassies and Consulates abroad or upon arrival at the following immigration checkpoints. The visa on arrival fee depends on the nationality of the traveler but the minimum cost is USD 30 per person and admitted to Laos for the stay of 30 days. Two passport photos are required for each visa application.

Important note: Travellers arriving from Vietnam overland must have their Lao visa arranged and stamped prior to arrival at the Laotian border.

Referring to the notice no 589 dated 11 February 2008 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs concerning visa on arrival, please note that a number of nationalities will not be able to obtain a visa on arrival into Lao P.D.R., except those who have an official letter from the Lao government or Lao authorities concerned. Please do contact our offices for further information.