Vientiane Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Vientiane, the capital of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos), welcomes international visitors through Wattay International Airport and various land border crossings. The entry requirements for Vientiane are relatively straightforward, with many nationalities eligible for visa on arrival or e-visa options, making it an accessible destination in Southeast Asia. However, all travelers should ensure they have proper documentation and meet health requirements before departure. The immigration process in Vientiane is generally efficient, though travelers should be prepared for potential queues during peak tourist seasons. Most visitors enter on tourist visas, which are readily available for the majority of nationalities. The Lao government has modernized its visa system in recent years, introducing an e-visa option that allows travelers to complete much of the paperwork before arrival, significantly streamlining the entry process. Before traveling to Vientiane, visitors should ensure their passport has at least six months validity remaining from the date of entry, carry recent passport-sized photographs, and have proof of sufficient funds and onward travel arrangements. While Laos maintains friendly relations with most countries, visa policies can change, and certain nationalities may face additional requirements or restrictions. It's essential to verify current requirements with the nearest Lao embassy or consulate well in advance of your trip.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Laos offers multiple visa options for visitors to Vientiane, including visa on arrival, e-visa, and traditional visa applications. Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Wattay International Airport or apply for an e-visa online before travel.

Visa-Free Entry

14-30 days depending on nationality

Very limited visa-free access to Laos. Currently, only ASEAN nationals and a few bilateral agreement countries qualify for visa exemption

Includes

Brunei (14 days) Cambodia (30 days) Indonesia (30 days) Malaysia (30 days) Myanmar (14 days) Philippines (30 days) Singapore (30 days) Thailand (30 days) Vietnam (30 days) Japan (15 days) South Korea (15 days) Luxembourg (15 days) Switzerland (15 days)

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Visa-free agreements can change; always verify current status before travel.

E-Visa

30 days single entry

Online visa application available for most nationalities. The e-visa must be obtained before travel and is valid for entry through specific ports including Wattay International Airport

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Most EU countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, etc.) China India Russia Most other countries not listed as visa-free

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Lao e-visa portal (https://laoevisa.gov.la) at least 3 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 3 working days. Upload a passport photo and passport bio page scan.
Cost: Approximately USD 50 plus processing fees

E-visa is valid for entry through Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I, Luang Prabang International Airport, and Pakse International Airport. Print the e-visa approval letter to present upon arrival. Not valid at all border crossings.

Visa on Arrival

30 days single entry

Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Wattay International Airport and major land border crossings

How to Apply: Complete arrival card on the plane or at the airport. Present passport (valid for 6+ months), one passport photo, and visa fee in USD. Forms are available at the immigration counter.
Cost: USD 30-42 depending on nationality (US citizens: USD 35, Canadian citizens: USD 42, most EU citizens: USD 30-31). Payment in USD cash only; other currencies may be accepted at unfavorable rates.

Have exact change in USD to avoid issues. Weekend and after-hours arrivals may incur an additional USD 1-2 overtime fee. Passport photos available for purchase at airport if needed (approximately USD 2-3). Some nationalities including Afghanistan, Pakistan, and certain African countries may not be eligible for visa on arrival and must apply in advance.

Traditional Visa Application

Varies: 30 days to 1 year depending on visa type

Required for certain nationalities or for those seeking longer stays, business visas, or multiple entries

How to Apply: Apply at a Lao embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence. Submit application form, passport, photos, and supporting documents (invitation letter for business visas, etc.). Processing time typically 3-5 business days.

Required for nationalities not eligible for visa on arrival or e-visa. Also necessary for business visas, work permits, or stays exceeding 30 days. Tourist visas can be extended within Laos through the Immigration Department.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Wattay International Airport or land border crossings into Vientiane, travelers will proceed through immigration and customs. The process is straightforward but can take 30-60 minutes during busy periods. Having all documents prepared in advance will expedite your entry.

1. Arrival Card Completion

Complete the arrival/departure card distributed on the flight or available at immigration. Fill in all required fields including passport details, purpose of visit, and accommodation address in Vientiane. Keep the departure portion for exit.

2. Visa Processing (if applicable)

If obtaining visa on arrival, proceed to the visa application counter before immigration. Submit passport, photo, completed form, and fee in USD cash. Wait for your name to be called (typically 10-20 minutes) to collect your passport with visa stamp.

3. Immigration Control

Present your passport (with visa or e-visa approval), arrival card, and any supporting documents to the immigration officer. They may ask about your purpose of visit and accommodation. Your passport will be stamped with entry date and permitted stay duration.

4. Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the baggage carousel. Report any missing or damaged luggage to the airline counter immediately.

5. Customs Declaration

Proceed through customs. Use the red channel if you have items to declare (currency over USD 10,000, restricted items, etc.) or the green channel if nothing to declare. Random bag inspections may occur.

6. Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, exit to the arrivals hall where you can access currency exchange, SIM cards, taxis, and hotel transportation.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Should have at least 2 blank pages for stamps.

Visa or E-Visa Approval

Printed e-visa approval letter, visa on arrival fee in USD cash, or pre-arranged visa in passport.

Passport Photos

1-2 recent passport-sized photos (4x6 cm) for visa on arrival applications. White background preferred.

Onward/Return Ticket

Proof of departure from Laos (flight, bus, or train ticket). May be requested by immigration officers, though not always checked.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel booking confirmation or address where you'll be staying in Vientiane. Required for arrival card.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence of adequate financial means for your stay (credit cards, cash, bank statements). Rarely requested but advisable to carry.

Completed Arrival/Departure Card

Immigration form with personal details, purpose of visit, and accommodation information. Keep departure portion until exit.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Carry USD cash in small denominations for visa fees and tips. ATMs are available in the arrivals hall but may have fees.

Have passport photos ready before travel as airport photo services charge premium prices.

Print all documentation including e-visa approval, hotel bookings, and flight confirmations. Internet access may be limited at immigration.

Fill out the arrival card completely and legibly in English. Incomplete forms will delay processing.

Keep departure card stapled in your passport; you'll need it when leaving Laos. Losing it may result in fines.

Be patient and polite with immigration officers. Avoid taking photos in immigration areas as it's prohibited.

Exchange only small amounts at the airport as rates are less favorable than in the city. Most hotels and restaurants accept Thai Baht and USD.

Arrange transportation before arrival if possible. Official airport taxis charge fixed rates to the city center (approximately USD 7-10).

Purchase a local SIM card in the arrivals hall for convenient internet access and navigation during your stay.

Customs & Duty-Free

Laos customs regulations allow reasonable duty-free allowances for personal items and gifts. All travelers must pass through customs control after collecting baggage. Declare all items exceeding duty-free limits, restricted goods, and large amounts of currency to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

1 liter of spirits or wine

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal consumption only, not for sale or commercial purposes.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. Tobacco products must be for personal use.

Currency

Up to USD 10,000 (or equivalent) without declaration

Amounts exceeding USD 10,000 must be declared on arrival and departure. Both foreign and Lao currency (Kip) are included in this limit. Failure to declare may result in confiscation and fines.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to USD 500 value

Goods must be for personal use, not for commercial purposes. Professional equipment may require temporary import permits.

Perfume

Reasonable quantity for personal use

Typically up to 250ml of perfume or 500ml of eau de toilette.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Laos has strict drug laws with severe penalties including long prison sentences
Weapons and ammunition - Including firearms, explosives, and military equipment without proper permits
Pornographic materials - Magazines, videos, or digital media considered obscene
Counterfeit goods - Fake branded items, pirated software, and counterfeit currency
Endangered species products - Items made from protected wildlife (ivory, certain woods, animal parts)
Subversive materials - Publications or media critical of the Lao government or considered politically sensitive
Certain chemicals and hazardous materials - Without proper authorization and documentation

Restricted Items

Antiques and Buddha images - Export of antiques, religious artifacts, and Buddha statues is strictly regulated. Requires special permit from Department of National Heritage. Attempting to export without permission may result in confiscation and prosecution.
Prescription medications - Bring only necessary amounts with original packaging and doctor's prescription. Certain medications legal elsewhere may be restricted in Laos.
Drones and radio equipment - Require special permits from relevant authorities. Unauthorized use may result in confiscation.
Professional camera/video equipment - May require temporary import documentation and permits, especially for commercial filming.
Plants and plant products - Agricultural items may require phytosanitary certificates to prevent disease introduction.
Gold and precious metals - Large quantities may require declaration and documentation.

Health Requirements

While Laos does not currently mandate specific vaccinations for most travelers, health precautions are strongly recommended. Entry requirements may change based on global health situations, so check current requirements before travel.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. Proof of vaccination (yellow card) must be presented at immigration.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food and water contamination
Typhoid - Recommended, especially if visiting rural areas or eating street food
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have medical procedures or intimate contact
Japanese Encephalitis - Recommended for travelers spending extended time in rural areas, especially during rainy season
Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact
Routine vaccinations - Ensure MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), and polio vaccinations are up to date
COVID-19 - Check current requirements as policies continue to evolve

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Medical facilities in Vientiane are limited, and serious conditions may require evacuation to Thailand. Ensure your policy covers activities you plan to undertake. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers accessible.

Current Health Requirements: As of late 2024, Laos has removed most COVID-19 entry restrictions, including vaccination and testing requirements. However, health policies can change rapidly based on global situations. Check the official Lao government website and your country's travel advisory 1-2 weeks before departure for current requirements. Consider malaria prophylaxis if traveling to rural areas outside Vientiane. Dengue fever is present year-round; use insect repellent. Drink only bottled or purified water.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Vientiane for citizen services and emergencies

Most embassies are located in the Hatsady area of Vientiane. Register with your embassy for travel alerts. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure.

Immigration Department

Department of Immigration, Ministry of Public Security - For visa extensions and immigration matters

Located on Hatsady Road, Vientiane. Office hours: Monday-Friday 8:00-12:00 and 13:00-16:00. Visa extensions available for tourist visas (typically 30-day extensions).

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 1190 (Police), 1195 (Fire), 1195 (Ambulance)

English language support may be limited. Tourist Police: +856 21 251 128. For medical emergencies, consider contacting your hotel or embassy for assistance in arranging transport to quality facilities.

Wattay International Airport

Airport information and services: +856 21 512 165

Located approximately 4 km from Vientiane city center. Limited international flights; main connections through Bangkok, Hanoi, and other regional hubs.

Tourism Information

Lao National Tourism Administration: +856 21 212 251

Tourism office located on Lane Xang Avenue. Provides maps, information, and assistance with tourism-related issues.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children require their own passport and visa (same requirements as adults). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) authorizing travel, including contact information. This letter should be in English and include details of the trip. Single parents should carry the child's birth certificate. Adopted children should have adoption papers. While not always checked, these documents prevent potential issues at immigration. Family-friendly accommodations are widely available in Vientiane.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Laos require: (1) Valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before arrival), (2) Health certificate from licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of travel, (3) Import permit from Lao Department of Livestock and Fisheries (apply at least 2 weeks in advance), (4) Microchip identification recommended. Pets must enter through Wattay International Airport. Airlines have specific requirements for pet transport. Some breeds may be restricted. Quarantine may be required if documentation is incomplete. Pet-friendly accommodations in Vientiane are limited; arrange in advance.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas (30 days) can be extended for an additional 30-60 days at the Immigration Department in Vientiane. Extension fees vary (approximately USD 2 per day). Multiple extensions may be possible but are at the discretion of immigration officials. For stays exceeding 90 days, consider applying for a business visa (requires sponsor/invitation), student visa (requires enrollment in Lao institution), or retirement visa (for those over 55 with financial means). Overstaying your visa results in fines of USD 10 per day and potential deportation. Working in Laos requires a work permit obtained through an employer.

Business Travelers

Business visitors can enter on tourist visas for short trips (meetings, conferences). For extended business stays or work activities, a business visa is required. Application requires invitation letter from Lao company/organization, company registration documents, and purpose of visit explanation. Business visas can be issued for 30 days to 1 year with single or multiple entries. Work permits are separate from visas and required for employment. Process through sponsoring employer. Business visa holders must register with local authorities if staying more than 30 days.

Journalists and Media

Journalists, photographers, and film crews must obtain special media permits before arrival. Apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism at least 2-4 weeks before travel. Provide detailed itinerary, purpose of visit, and areas to be covered. Working on tourist visas is prohibited and may result in deportation and equipment confiscation. Even personal blogging or social media content creation may require permits if deemed professional. Drone usage requires separate permits and is restricted in many areas.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Wattay International Airport without leaving the airport do not require a visa if continuing within 24 hours. However, Vientiane's airport is small with limited transit facilities. If leaving the airport during transit, a visa is required (visa on arrival available). Ensure sufficient time between connections as flight delays are common. No transit lounge or hotel facilities airside; consider a brief city visit if layover exceeds 4-5 hours.