Laos

Laos Visa Information

Complete Guide to All Visa Types and Requirements

Table of Contents

Visa-Free Entry

Important Update (2024)

Starting June 1, 2025, Japanese nationals can enter Laos visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date.

Eligible Countries for Visa-Free Entry:

  • Japan (30 days)
  • ASEAN countries (30 days)
  • South Korea (30 days)
  • Russia (15 days)
  • Switzerland (15 days)

Tourist Visa (T-B3)

Purpose

Tourism, leisure, and short-term visits

Validity

30 days (can be extended once in Laos)

Application Methods

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Available at major international airports and land border crossings

  • Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
  • Luang Prabang International Airport
  • Savannakhet International Airport
  • Pakse International Airport

E-Visa

Apply online through official website

Website: https://application.visalaos.com/application

Processing time: 3 business days

Fee: $50 USD

Embassy/Consulate

Apply before travel at Laos embassy or consulate

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Business Visa (NI-B2)

Purpose

Business activities, commercial purposes, and investment

Validity

3 months, 6 months, or 1 year (multiple entry)

Requirements

  • Employment contract or investment certificate in Laos
  • Work permit and ID card required
  • Company registration documents
  • Business invitation letter

Application Process

Usually applied for within Laos after obtaining necessary documents

Work Visa (LA-B2)

Purpose

Employment and work activities in Laos

Requirements

  • Employment contract from Laos employer
  • Work permit and ID card required
  • Labor quota approval from employer
  • Entry permit from Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Application Process

  1. Employer applies for foreign worker quota at Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare
  2. Obtain entry permit from Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare
  3. Get visa approval from Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Department
  4. Obtain work permit from Provincial Labor and Social Welfare Department
  5. Get residence permit from Ministry of Public Security Foreigner Management Police
  6. Apply for multiple entry visa at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Department

Student Visa (ST-B2)

Purpose

Study at educational institutions in Laos

Requirements

  • Admission letter from Laos educational institution
  • Academic transcripts
  • Financial proof
  • Health certificate

Validity

Issued for study period, renewable

Transit Visa (Tr-B3)

Purpose

Transit through Laos to other countries

Validity

Maximum 5 days, non-extendable

Requirements

  • Valid visa for destination country
  • Confirmed onward ticket
  • Proof of sufficient funds

Diplomatic & Official Visas

Diplomatic Visa (D-A1)

For government officials, diplomats, and international organization staff and their families

Issued for mission duration, renewable as needed

Visa fees waived

Official Visa (S-A2)

For government officials, diplomats, and international organization staff and their families

Issued for mission duration, renewable as needed

Visa fees waived

Special Purpose Visas

Expert Visa (E-B2)

For foreign experts working with international organizations, NGOs, or projects

Requirements: Employment contract or appointment letter

Validity: Issued for mission duration, renewable as needed

Media Visa (M-B2)

For journalists and media personnel conducting reporting activities

Requirements: Permission from Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism

Validity: Issued for mission duration, renewable as needed

Courtesy Visa (C-B1)

For individuals or groups invited by Laos government

Validity: Issued for mission duration, renewable as needed

Spouse Visa (SP-B3)

For foreign spouses of Laos citizens

Requirements: Marriage certificate and related documents

Validity: Issued for marriage duration, renewable as needed

Application Process for Spouse Visa:

  1. Laos spouse obtains request letter from village chief
  2. Foreign spouse applies for SP-B3 visa at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Department Section 4
  3. After approval, exit and re-enter to obtain SP-B3 visa
  4. Apply for residence permit at Immigration Department
  5. Apply for multiple entry visa at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Department

Permanent Visa (P-B3)

For foreigners seeking permanent residence in Laos

Requirements: Must meet specific conditions and qualifications

Validity: Issued as permanent residence, requires periodic renewal

Application Process

Required Documents (General)

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months
  • Completed visa application form
  • Passport-sized photos (specific size requirements vary)
  • Visa fee payment
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Return ticket or onward travel proof

Photo Requirements

  • Tourist Visa: 45mm x 35mm
  • Business Visa: 50mm x 30mm
  • Recent photos (within 6 months)
  • White background
  • No glasses or headwear

Visa Fees

Tourist Visa

  • Visa on Arrival: $40 USD
  • E-Visa: $50 USD
  • Embassy/Consulate: Varies by location

Business Visa

  • Single Entry: $40 USD
  • Multiple Entry (3 months): $80 USD
  • Multiple Entry (6 months): $120 USD
  • Multiple Entry (1 year): $200 USD

Work Visa

  • Single Entry: $40 USD
  • Multiple Entry: $80-200 USD (depending on duration)
  • Work Permit: Additional fees apply

Other Visas

  • Student Visa: $40 USD
  • Transit Visa: $20 USD
  • Diplomatic/Official: Free

Contact Information

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Laos

Address: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vientiane, Laos

Phone: +856-21-214-000

Website: https://www.mofa.gov.la

E-Visa Portal: https://application.visalaos.com

Immigration Department, Laos

Address: Immigration Department, Vientiane, Laos

Phone: +856-21-214-000

Website: https://www.immigration.gov.la

Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Laos

Address: Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, Vientiane, Laos

Phone: +856-21-214-000

Website: https://www.molsw.gov.la

Important Notes