To enter Laos without issues, your passport must meet the following conditions:

• Valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Laos

• At least two blank pages for stamps

• The passport must be undamaged, machine-readable and valid for international travel

• Travellers must present the same passport used during any online application (eVisa or arrival registration)

A passport that does not meet these requirements can lead to denied boarding or denied entry at the border.

Depending on your nationality and travel purpose, you may enter Laos through one of these options:

A. Laos eVisa (Recommended for Tourists)

The eVisa system allows travellers to apply online before their trip. It is the most convenient option for airport entry.

General eVisa requirements include:

• A valid passport (6 months validity)

• A recent passport-style photo

• Completed online form with personal and travel details

• Payment of the official processing fee

• Entry through an airport or border checkpoint that accepts eVisa

The eVisa is usually approved within a few days and allows a single entry for tourism purposes.

B. Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Many travellers can obtain a visa directly at airports and selected land borders.

Requirements typically include:

• Passport valid for 6 months

• One passport photo

• Completed arrival form

• Cash payment in USD for the visa fee

• Proof of onward travel or accommodation (may be requested)

VOA lines can be long, especially during high season, so preparing documentation in advance helps.

C. Embassy or Consulate Visa

Some nationalities must apply for a visa before traveling.
Requirements vary but usually include:

• Passport

• Visa application form

• Passport photos

• Proof of travel itinerary

• Visa fee

1. In addition to the visa, travellers may need to complete certain arrival-related documents.

   Arrival Form / Travel Registration

   Airports and borders in Laos often require travellers to present basic entry information such as:

   • Travel purpose

   • Length of stay

   • Accommodation address

   • Passport details

   • Recent travel history

   Many travellers choose to complete digital arrival forms in advance to speed up the process and avoid mistakes on arrival.

   Having this information ready helps immigration officers process your entry faster.

While not always checked, Laos immigration may request:

• Hotel booking or host address

• Return flight ticket or onward travel proof

• Sufficient funds for your stay

These requirements are usually random checks, but being prepared avoids delays.

When entering Laos, travellers must follow customs and baggage rules, including:

• Declaring high-value items if required

• Declaring large amounts of foreign currency

• Avoiding restricted or prohibited goods

• Ensuring personal medication is carried with appropriate documentation

Failure to declare restricted items can result in fines or confiscation.

Not all land borders in Laos accept visas on arrival or eVisas.
Before crossing, travellers must check that their entry point allows:

• eVisa entry

• Visa on arrival

• Pre-approved visa only

Airport entry is the fastest and easiest option for most nationalities.

Travellers often run into problems because they overlook small but essential details.
To avoid delays:

• Don’t travel with a passport expiring within 6 months

• Don’t assume every border accepts VOA or eVisa

• Don’t forget a passport photo for VOA

• Don’t rely on mobile internet to show bookings—keep offline copies

• Avoid entering the country with damaged or incomplete documents

Small errors can lead to long queues or, in rare cases, refusal of entry.

Use this checklist before your trip:

✔ Passport valid 6+ months
✔ Two blank pages available
✔ eVisa approved or VOA documents prepared
✔ Accommodation booked and saved offline
✔ Onward or return ticket ready
✔ Travel insurance (recommended)
✔ Arrival form or details ready
✔ Sufficient cash for visa fees if needed
✔ No restricted items in luggage

If you complete all these steps, entering Laos is fast and straightforward.

Before you enter Laos, make sure you have:

1. A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

2. A completed immigration form (digital LDIF or printed arrival card).

3. A valid visa (eVisa, Visa on Arrival, or visa exemption based on nationality).

4. Proof of accommodation in Laos.

5. Return or onward ticket.

Having your Laos Immigration Form completed in advance ensures that border officers can verify your entry details quickly, allowing for a faster and smoother arrival process.