Laos eVisa – Types, Application and Requirements

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. It is one of the poorest countries in the world, and its population is only about 11 million people. Despite this, it has attracted tourists because of its beautiful scenery and culture. If you are traveling to the country for tourism, you need a Laos eVisa.

To get a Laos eVisa, you will need to apply through your travel agent or the website of the Lao embassy or consulate in your country. Besides, the application process for a Laos eVisa can be complex, so you must have the required documents ready when applying.

This article will explore the types of Laos eVisa, application processes, and Required documents. Keep reading as we unfold the information.

About Laos

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia located at the crossroads of China, Thailand, and Vietnam. The Laotian landscape is mountainous, with elevations ranging from sea level to over 8,000 feet. It has a population of about eleven million and is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia.

Laos’s diverse culture includes Buddhist influences and elements of Hinduism, animism, and Chinese traditions. The country’s economy is based on agriculture and tourism. Laos also has a strong military tradition and is one of only two countries in the world (the other being North Korea) not to have signed the Arms Trade Treaty.

What is a Laos eVisa?

A Laos eVisa is a travel document that allows citizens of Laos to visit countries in the Schengen Area. The visa is valid for three months and can be used to stay in participating countries for a maximum of 90 days. The visa can also be extended once for 30 days, provided the traveler has remained within the original 90-day limit.

Benefits of a Laos eVisa

A Laos eVisa is an excellent way to enjoy the many benefits of traveling to Laos. This visa allows tourists access to all of the country’s major tourist destinations, including the capital city of Vientiane.

The Laos eVisa enables tourists to stay in any hotel or guesthouse in Laos for up to 30 days without having to obtain a separate permit. Additionally, it provides access to all national parks and wildlife reserves within the country and discounts on admission fees to various museums and archaeological sites.

The Laos eVisa also entitles tourists to free transportation within Lao territory, including buses, trains, and boats. And lastly, it grants them free use of public services such as health care and education.

Types of Laos eVisa

There are different types of Laos eVisa for other purposes.

#1. Laos tourist visa

This is the most common type of visa and allows tourists to stay for 30 days in Laos. You can obtain it at any Lao embassy or consulate.

#2. Business visa

This type of visa is mainly for business people and allows them to stay in Laos for up to 2 months. You can obtain it at any Lao embassy or consulate.

#3. Student visa

This visa type is for students attending school or university in Laos and allows them to stay for up to 6 months. You can obtain it at any Lao embassy or consulate.

#4. Work permit visa

This type of visa is for foreigners who want to work in Laos and allows them to stay for three months, renewable once.

Eligibility Criteria to apply for a Laos eVisa

Anyone wishing to visit Laos must first obtain a visa from the Lao Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence. The following are the eligibility requirements to apply for a Laos eVisa:

Nationality: Citizens of any country are eligible to apply for a Laos eVisa, as long as they have a valid passport and visa which is still valid at the time of application.

Departure Airport: Applicants must depart from an airport in Laos.

Tourist Visa Requirements: All visitors requiring a tourist visa must have proof of onward travel, such as tickets, hotel reservations, or other documentation indicating that they will leave Laos after their visit.

Duration of Stay: The length of stay on a tourist visa is 30 days maximum. Extensions are not available and no refunds will be given if the visitor leaves early.

Steps to Apply for a Laos eVisa

If you are planning to visit Laos, there are a few simple steps that you need to follow to apply for a visa. The most important thing is to know the visa requirements and plan your trip accordingly.

Here are the steps that you need to take to apply for a Laos eVisa:

• Research the required documents.
• Complete the online application form.
• Upload all the necessary documents (including a passport photo).
• Pay the visa application fee.
• Wait for confirmation of your visa application from the Lao Embassy/Consulate General.
• Check your visa status online once your application has been approved by the Lao Embassy/Consulate General.
• Make travel arrangements and enjoy your trip to Laos!

Required Documents to apply for a Laos eVisa

Here is a list of what you’ll need to apply for a visa:

• Your passport with at least six months remaining validity
• A photocopy of your passport’s data page
• Your hotel reservation or proof of purchase for any goods or services purchased while in Laos
• Evidence of financial support (in Lao kip) for at least three days while in Laos
• Proof of onward travel arrangements (in case your visa is not issued on arrival)
• Other documents may also be required depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. Please check the relevant consulate website for more information.

Laos eVisa Processing Time

The processing time for Laos eVisa is 72 hours. However, this is subject to change at any time without prior notification.

Please note that the 72-hour processing time only applies to visa applications received through embassy or consulate channels. If you apply for your Laos eVisa through a travel agency or online, the processing time may take longer due to the additional bureaucracy involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Laos visa online?

The Laos visa application process can now be done online through the Lao embassy website. The website offers an easy-to-use visa application form with all the required information, including a photo. Applicants only need to provide their passport number, date of birth, and nationality. Once submitted, applicants will receive a confirmation email advising them of the approval or rejection of their visa application. If approved, applicants must print out their visa approval letter and bring it with them when traveling to Laos.

How do I get a Laos tourist visa?

If you are a national of a country eligible to travel to Laos, you must obtain a tourist visa from the Lao embassy or consulate in your home country. The tourist visa application process is simple and typically takes a few days to complete. However, it would be best to keep a few things in mind before applying for your visa.

First, ensure you have all the required documentation ready to submit when applying for your visa. This includes your passport valid for at least six months after your planned stay in Laos and proof of sufficient funds (normally around $30-$50 per day) to cover your expenses while in Laos.

Can I get a Laos visa on arrival?

If you are planning to visit Laos, you may wonder if you can get a visa on arrival. The answer is yes, but it depends on your nationality and the type of visa you are seeking. 

The Lao government has recently started issuing visas on arrival for certain nationalities, including citizens of France, Japan, Russia, and South Korea. This means that if you have a valid passport from one of these countries and are not carrying any other kind of ID, you will be able to enter Laos without a visa. However, this policy is subject to change at any time, so it is essential to check with the nearest Lao embassy or consulate before traveling.

How long does a Laos visa take?

A Laos visa takes 3-5 business days to process. You can apply for a visa at any Lao embassies or consulates worldwide. The application process is straightforward, and you will need to provide proof of your travel plans and sufficient funds to cover your stay in Laos.

How long can you stay in Laos without a visa?

If you are a foreigner and do not have a visa for Laos, the maximum time you can stay without one is 30 days. After that, you will need to obtain a visa from the Lao Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. If you are visiting Laos for less than 30 days, it is recommended that you apply for a tourist visa at the Lao Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Once issued, this visa allows you to stay in Laos for up to 60 days. You must present your passport when applying for the visa and show sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in Laos.

Conclusion

Finally, Laos eVisa is a great way to enjoy your vacation in Laos. The process is straightforward, and the cost is reasonable. If you’re looking for a visa that’s easy to get and won’t break the bank, Laos eVisa is worth checking out.