Family visas
Laotian Dependant / Family Stay Permit
Allows family members of foreign investors and workers, and family of Lao nationals, to accompany or join them for their stay in Laos.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The precise visa/permit type, validity and fees for spouses and dependants (including family of Lao nationals) are not confirmed from an official published figure; verify with the Department of Immigration / OSS.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Laos government website before you apply.
- Route type
- Family member / dependant stay
- Who sponsors
- The principal investor, worker, or Lao national relative
- Validity
- Typically tied to the sponsor's stay permit
- Exact rules and fees for each family relationship not confirmed from an official published figure
- Who it is for
- Immediate family of a sponsor
- Spouse and dependent children of a Lao national or of a foreigner lawfully residing/working in Laos.
- Right to work
- Not included
- Dependent status does not by itself permit employment; a work permit would be needed separately.
- Where to apply
- Department of Immigration
- Handled through the sponsor's immigration arrangements in Laos.
Who it is for
- Family members of approved foreign investors
- Dependants of foreign workers on a valid work/stay permit
- Spouses and family of Lao nationals
Requirements
- Proof of relationship to the sponsor (marriage/birth documents)
- Sponsor's valid visa, work permit or stay permit (or proof of Lao nationality)
- Valid passports for each family member
- Application through the relevant immigration / One-Stop Service office
How to apply
- The application is made through the Department of Immigration under the family/dependent stay category, normally arranged by or alongside the sponsor.
- Submit proof of the relationship and evidence of the sponsor's lawful status and means of support.
- The permit is issued for a period generally matching the sponsor's status and can be renewed while the relationship and the sponsor's status remain valid.
Documents you may need
- Dependent's passport valid for more than 6 months
- Marriage certificate or child's birth certificate proving the relationship
- Sponsor's passport and residence/work permit, or Lao national ID for a Lao sponsor
- Proof of accommodation in Laos
- Evidence the sponsor can financially support the dependent
- Passport-style photos
Frequently asked questions
Not on the dependent status alone. It allows the family member to live in Laos with the sponsor; taking up employment would require applying separately for the appropriate visa and a work permit.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.