How Much Is Laos Visa on Arrival? A Complete Guide for TravelersIf you’re considering traveling to Laos, one of the first things to understand is the visa on arrival process. Many travelers find this option convenient and straightforward, especially when entering through major international airports or land borders. But the most common question remains how much is Laos visa on arrival? This guide explains the cost, requirements, and other key details to help you prepare your trip efficiently.
What Is a Visa on Arrival?
A visa on arrival (VOA) allows travelers to get their visa once they reach the destination country no need to apply at an embassy beforehand. In Laos, this service is offered to nationals of many countries and is available at major entry points including international airports and several border checkpoints.
It is primarily meant for tourist visits and short stays, usually up to 30 days.
How Much Is Laos Visa on Arrival?
The cost of a Laos visa on arrival depends on your nationality. Here is a general breakdown of the fee structure
Average Cost by Country
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United States $35
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United Kingdom $35
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Canada $42
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Australia $30
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Germany $30
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India $40
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China $20
These fees are payable in USD upon arrival. Some border crossings may accept other currencies, but USD is preferred to avoid currency exchange issues.
Keep in mind that prices may vary slightly depending on exchange rates and local policy updates.
Where Can You Get a Laos Visa on Arrival?
The visa on arrival is available at most international airports and land border crossings, including
Airports
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Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
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Luang Prabang International Airport
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Pakse International Airport
Land Border Checkpoints
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Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge I (Nong Khai-Vientiane)
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Friendship Bridge II (Mukdahan-Savannakhet)
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Friendship Bridge IV (Chiang Khong-Huay Xai)
Before traveling, make sure the entry point you’re using supports visa on arrival services.
What Documents Are Required?
To obtain the visa on arrival, you will need
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A valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity
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A recent passport-size photo (preferably 4×6 cm)
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A completed visa application form
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Cash payment in USD
If you don’t have a passport photo, some checkpoints may offer photo services for a small fee.
How Long Is the Visa Valid?
The visa on arrival is typically valid for 30 days. It can be extended for another 30 days by visiting the immigration office in Vientiane or through a visa extension agency. The extension fee is generally around $2 per day.
Overstaying your visa without extension can lead to fines usually $10 per day.
Who Is Eligible for Visa on Arrival?
Most travelers from Europe, North America, Australia, and several Asian countries are eligible for visa on arrival. However, some nationalities are required to obtain a visa in advance.
Countries not eligible for VOA include
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Pakistan
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Afghanistan
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Nigeria
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Bangladesh
If your nationality is on the restricted list, you must apply for a visa at a Lao embassy or consulate before entering the country.
Best Practices for a Smooth Visa Process
To make the visa on arrival process easy and fast, consider the following tips
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Bring exact cash in USD, as change may not be available.
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Have your passport photo ready to save time.
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Arrive early at the checkpoint to avoid long queues.
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Fill out the visa application form in advance if available online.
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Keep a copy of your hotel booking and return ticket, in case asked by officials.
Additional Fees and Considerations
There are a few additional charges or circumstances to consider
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Weekend and holiday surcharge An extra $1-$2 may be added during weekends or public holidays.
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Late night arrival fee Some airports may charge a small fee if you arrive outside normal hours.
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Photo service If you forgot to bring a passport photo, the fee is typically $2-$3 for a quick photo on-site.
These are small costs, but it’s best to be prepared to avoid surprises.
Is an E-Visa a Better Option?
Laos also offers an e-visa service for travelers who prefer to complete the process online before their trip. While the cost is similar (around $50 including processing fees), it may be more convenient if you want to skip lines at the airport.
However, the e-visa is only valid at select entry points and might take a few days to process.
Summary of Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on Arrival Fee | $30-$42 |
| Weekend/Holiday Surcharge | $1-$2 |
| Passport Photo (if needed) | $2-$3 |
| Overstay Penalty (per day) | $10 |
| Extension for 30 Days | $60 (approx.) |
Getting a Laos visa on arrival is generally affordable and simple for eligible travelers. With prices ranging from $30 to $42, it’s a cost-effective way to enter the country for short-term travel. Just make sure you bring the necessary documents, prepare the correct fee in cash, and double-check your eligibility.
Whether you’re heading to explore Luang Prabang, the Mekong River, or the mountain landscapes of northern Laos, securing your visa on arrival is one of the easiest steps of your journey.