Laos Passport & Visa Information

What passport and visa do I need to visit Laos?

Passports
British visitors to Laos must travel on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport, and ensure that the passport has at least six months validity from the date that you arrive in Laos. Please check that your passport has two blank pages for visa purposes, and ensure that your passport complies with the above well in advance of travel.

Visas
Visa requirements can change at any time, so it is essential that all travellers check the latest guidance for Laos on the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website for up-to-date information: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/laos/entry-requirements. British passport holders require a visa for entry into Laos and a single entry tourist visa will permit a stay of up to 30 days. Multiple entry visas are only available from the Lao Embassy prior to travel.

On arrival
For those arriving by air, visas are available upon arrival at Vientiane, Luang Prabang & Pakse International Airports. The process is usually straightforward and relatively quick, although it can take longer if several planes have landed simultaneously. Visas are also issued at a number of international overland checkpoints, please check in good time before departure here immigration. gov.la/en/checkpoint. You will need the correct amount of US dollars in cash and two recent passport photos for a single entry visa. Please ensure you have at least two blank pages in your passport.

Apply online
You can also apply for an e-Visa online in advance of travel. We recommend you apply around 2 weeks prior to departure. Please note that the e-Visa is only accepted at certain entry points, so please check this prior to purchasing your visa online. To apply and for more information please visit: laoevisa.gov.la/index.

Digital arrival & departure cards
All foreign nationals entering Laos are now required to complete the Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF), which should be done in advance at least 3 days prior to arrival in Laos. The LDIF replaces the paper immigration forms at Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse International Airports, and at the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I. Please complete the form here: immigration.gov.la.

How to book
See our selection of holidays to Laos, plus when to visit and suggested tours. To discuss your travel needs, complete an enquiry form or call our Asia experts on 020 7720 9285.