Laos
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Laos’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Laos set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, send a message to the Lao Embassy London Facebook page.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Laos, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least 2 blank pages.
Airlines will only let you board your flight if your passport has enough blank pages.
Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa to visit Laos.
To work, study and travel for business or other reasons, you must meet the Lao immigration department’s entry requirements.
Temporary tourist visa changes, 2024
From 1 July to 31 December 2024, visas on arrival and e-visas will permit you to stay for 60 days. Multiple-entry visas will only be available from the Lao Embassy before you depart for Laos.
These visas can be extended only once while in Laos for a further 60 days.
Applying for a visa
From 1 January 2025, tourist visas will only permit you to stay for 30 days from the date you arrive in Laos.
You can apply online for a Laos e-visa – apply at least 5 days in advance. The e-visa is single entry only and is accepted at major entry points.
You can also get a visa on arrival (single entry) at many entry points, including:
- Vientiane Wattay airport
- Luang Prabang airport
- Paske airport
See a full list of the entry points that accept e-visas and visas on arrival.
Visa extensions
From 1 January 2025, you’re allowed to extend your tourist visa twice while in Laos, for up to 60 days.
If you do not extend your visa within 90 days, you will face a fine in Lao kip worth 2,000 US dollars, deportation to your home country and a ban on returning to Laos.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Laos guide.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Laos. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.