Apply Online Now: Get Your Lao E-Visa Before You Go

Step-by-step guide to get an E-Visa for Laos online: application process, documents, and timing for travelers.

Visiting Laos Soon? How to Get Your E-Visa in 3 Easy Steps

What is an eVisa for Laos?

An eVisa is an official authorization that allows travelers to enter Laos without having to obtain a traditional paper visa. It is issued electronically after completing an online application form and paying the visa fees.

The eVisa system was introduced by the Lao government in 2017 to simplify and expedite the visa process for international visitors. It aims to boost tourism by making it easier for people worldwide to obtain a visa and plan trips to Laos. Create your e-visa now click link.

The key advantages of getting an eVisa over a regular visa are:

• Convenience: The entire application process can be done online in about 10 minutes. No need to visit embassies or consulates.

• Speed: eVisas are issued within 3 working days via email. Much faster than a paper visa that can take weeks.

• Lower cost: eVisa fees are lower than many traditional visas. Currently $50 for single entry.

• Flexibility: Applicants can choose their entry date and apply months in advance. Helpful for trip planning.

So in summary, the Laos eVisa is an official travel authorization similar to a regular visa, but obtained digitally for faster processing and greater convenience. It was introduced to make visits more accessible for tourists worldwide. Create your e-visa now click link.

Who Needs a Laos eVisa?

Citizens of most countries need to obtain a visa prior to traveling to Laos. However, there are some exceptions. Create your e-visa now click link.

The following nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival when entering Laos:

• Cambodia
• China
• France
• Germany
• Japan
• Russia
• Thailand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Citizens of ASEAN member states do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days.

All other nationalities must apply for an eVisa online prior to arrival. An eVisa allows for a single entry and stay of up to 30 days. Create your e-visa now click link.

To summarize:

• Citizens of Cambodia, China, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, Thailand, UK, and USA can get a visa on arrival.
• ASEAN citizens can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.
• All other nationalities must apply for an eVisa online before traveling to Laos. Create your e-visa now click link.

How to Apply for a Laos eVisa

Applying for a Laos eVisa is a quick and easy online process. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

You will need to have electronic copies of the following documents ready before starting your application:

• A scanned copy of the information page of your valid passport. Your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining.

• A passport-style photo taken within the last 6 months. This must be in JPG or PNG format.

• Proof of onward travel booking out of Laos, such as flight itinerary.

• Payment by credit or debit card for the visa processing fee.

Step 2: Apply Online

Go to the official Laos eVisa website and click on "Apply for Visa". You will need to create an account by providing your email address and setting a password. Create your e-visa now click link.

Once logged in, complete the online application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. Upload your supporting documents.

Double check all information entered before submitting your application.

Step 3: Pay Processing Fee

Pay the visa processing fee by credit card on the website. Fees depend on nationality but are typically around $50 USD. Create your e-visa now click link.

You will receive an email confirmation once payment is completed.

Step 4: Get eVisa by Email

After 2-3 business days, you will receive your approved Laos eVisa by email. Make sure to download and print a copy to present at immigration upon arrival. Create your e-visa now click link.

The entire application process is done through the official government website. No need to visit an embassy or consulate. With an eVisa, you can arrive at any valid entry point to Laos by land or air. Create your e-visa now click link.

eVisa Costs

The cost of a Laos eVisa depends on your nationality and the type of visa you need. Here are the current eVisa fees:

• Tourist Visa: $50 USD
• Business Visa: $50 USD
• Diplomatic Visa: Free
• Investor Visa: $50 USD
• Journalist Visa: $50 USD
• Transit Visa: $30 USD
• Non-Immigrant Visa: $50 USD

You can pay the eVisa fee by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB or Discover) or via PayPal. Create your e-visa now click link.

The application fee is non-refundable, even if your eVisa application is rejected. You will need to pay again if you re-apply.

Processing Time

The standard processing time for a Laos eVisa application is 1-3 business days. However, expedited processing is available for an additional fee:

• Regular Processing (1-3 business days): No additional fee
• Express Processing (24 hours): +$15
• Rush Processing (3 hours): +$30

After submitting an online application, most applicants receive approval via email within 1-3 business days. Those who require faster processing can pay extra fees for express or rush processing. Create your e-visa now click link.

With express processing, approval is guaranteed within 24 business hours for an additional $15 fee. This is recommended for those with upcoming trips who forgot to apply earlier.

For urgent situations, rush processing gets approval within 3 business hours for a $30 surcharge. This is ideal if your trip starts very soon and you need the visa right away. Create your e-visa now click link.

Keep in mind processing times start only after submitting a complete application with all required documents. Any errors or missing information will delay approval. Create your e-visa now click link.

Once approved, you'll receive an email with an official PDF copy of the eVisa to print out. It's important to carry this printout when traveling to Laos.

Validity of a Laos eVisa

The Laos eVisa is valid for entry for 30 days from the date of approval. This means you must enter Laos within 30 days of receiving your eVisa approval. Create your e-visa now click link.

The maximum duration of stay allowed with a Laos eVisa is 30 days. You are permitted to stay in Laos for up to 30 days on each entry with the eVisa.

If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for a regular tourist visa from a Lao embassy or consulate before traveling. The tourist visa allows stays of up to 60 days. Create your e-visa now click link.

eVisa vs Visa on Arrival

One of the most common questions travelers have when visiting Laos is whether they should apply for an eVisa online in advance or get a visa on arrival at the airport. Both are valid options, but there are some key differences to consider. Create your e-visa now click link.

Key Differences

• eVisas must be applied for in advance and approved before you travel. Visas on arrival can be obtained when you arrive in Laos.

• eVisas take 1-3 business days to process. Visas on arrival are issued immediately upon arrival.

• eVisas allow you to skip the visa line at the airport. Visas on arrival require waiting in line and processing at immigration.

• eVisas require completing an online application form. Visas on arrival involve filling out paperwork at the airport.

Pros of eVisa

• Convenient and easy online application process that can be completed in advance from anywhere.

• Speeds up the airport arrival process by skipping visa lines and paperwork.

• eVisa approval secured before you travel provides peace of mind.

Cons of eVisa

• Need to plan in advance and apply days before travel. Not an option for last-minute trips.

• Additional service fees apply for online processing.

Pros of Visa on Arrival

• Can be obtained upon landing without advance planning.

• No need to complete application until you arrive.

• No additional service fees beyond the visa cost.

Cons of Visa on Arrival

• Must wait in immigration lines after a long flight.

• Approval not guaranteed upon arrival.

• Need to have passport photos and cash for visa fees.

In summary, eVisas provide the most convenience and advance peace of mind, while visas on arrival offer flexibility for last-minute travelers. Consider your specific needs and timeline to determine which option is best for your visit to Laos. Create your e-visa now click link.

Traveling with an eVisa

When traveling to Laos with an eVisa, there are some important documents you'll need to have on hand when passing through immigration control at the border.

• Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Laos. It should also have at least 2 blank pages for stamps and visas. Border officials will check your passport thoroughly.

• Printed eVisa: You must print a hard copy of your approved Laos eVisa to present to immigration officials upon arrival. An electronic or digital copy is not sufficient - it must be a printed paper copy. Ensure the visa is printed clearly and legibly. Create your e-visa now click link.

• Onward travel: Proof of onward travel out of Laos is required. This can be a flight, bus, or train ticket showing you plan to exit Laos within the validity period of your visa.

• Sufficient funds: You may be asked to provide proof you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Laos. Cash, traveler's checks, or bank statements showing at least $30 USD per day are recommended.

• COVID-19 documentation: Depending on the latest entry requirements, you may need to show proof of vaccination, negative COVID-19 test results, pre-approval forms, health insurance, etc. Check official government sites for the latest regulations. Create your e-visa now click link.

In addition to the documentation required, there are some restrictions to be aware of when entering Laos with an eVisa:

• You can only enter and exit Laos at designated international border checkpoints, not at smaller overland crossings.

• Visa validity is 30 days from date of arrival, for single entry. Extensions up to 60 days total stay may be obtained.

• No visa exemptions or visa-on-arrival are allowed if you already have an approved eVisa.

• An eVisa can not be transferred or amended. You must apply for a new one if your travel plans change.

Following all immigration and customs regulations will ensure a smooth entry into Laos with your eVisa. Enjoy your trip!

Extending Your Stay

If you wish to stay in Laos longer than 30 days, you have a couple options with your eVisa. Create your e-visa now click link.

Options to Extend eVisa

• Border Runs: You can do a "border run" by exiting Laos and re-entering to get a new 30-day stay. This involves traveling to a bordering country like Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, or China and getting your passport stamped on exit and re-entry.

• Extensions: Some nationalities are eligible to extend their eVisa within Laos by applying at the Immigration Department. Extensions allow you to stay an additional 30 days. You'll need passport photos, a fee, and documentation. Create your e-visa now click link.

Applying for New Visa

If you'll be staying over 60 days, you'll need to apply for a new visa type:

• Tourist Visa: Apply for a 60 day tourist visa at a Lao embassy before arriving. This can be extended once within Laos.

• Business Visa: For long-term stays, a business visa may be obtained by invitation of a Lao company sponsoring your visit.

• Other Visas: Laos offers other long-stay visa types like student, volunteer, media, and more with specific requirements.

Check visa options and regulations in advance to determine the best approach for extending your stay in Laos. Create your e-visa now click link.

Other Important Tips

When traveling to Laos with an eVisa, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Double check that you have received approval for your eVisa before departing for Laos. Print out a copy to bring with you.

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of your trip. Many countries require this.

• Bring copies of your eVisa approval letter and passport photo page. Keep these separate from your actual passport.

• Be sure you have adequate travel insurance coverage. This is required to enter Laos.

• Do not overstay your visa. Extensions can be difficult to obtain once in the country. Leave a buffer before expiration.

• Avoid critizing the Lao government, leadership or policies while visiting the country. This can lead to trouble.

• Do not bring drones into Laos without pre-approval. Drone use is highly restricted.

• Do not take photos of any military facilities, government buildings or infrastructure. This can be illegal.

• Follow all rules and directives from authorities. Corruption is an issue, but resisting demands can make things worse.

• Leave valuables at home and keep important documents secure. Petty theft does occur.

• Check the latest COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling. Testing and vaccination rules can change quickly.

Following the visa rules and avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish. With an eVisa and proper preparation, you can focus on enjoying the wonders of Laos. Create your e-visa now click link.