Laotian visa resources
Who Needs a Visa for Laos
Whether you need a visa, and which one, depends on your nationality and the purpose and length of your stay.
Important
Whether you need a Lao visa depends first on your nationality. ASEAN nationals and citizens of several other countries can enter visa-free for short stays, while many other nationalities can use the eVisa or a visa on arrival. Citizens of some countries must obtain a visa in advance from a Lao embassy or consulate.
Purpose matters too. Visa-free entry, the eVisa and visa on arrival are for tourism and short visits and do not permit employment. Working, studying, investing or joining family requires the matching visa plus, in most cases, a work permit and/or stay permit.
Quick guide
- Short tourism: visa exemption, eVisa or visa on arrival
- Work: employer-sponsored LA-B2 plus work and stay permits
- Study: institution-sponsored student visa
- Invest: NI-B2 investor visa plus Stay Permit Card
- Family: dependant/family stay tied to a sponsor
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.