Skip to content

Visitor & short-stay visas

Laotian Transit Visa

A short visa for travellers passing through Laos to a third country, covering the brief stopover before onward departure.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Book a consultation

Under review — check current rules

The transit visa's exact validity, permitted stay and fee are not confirmed from an official published figure; verify with a Lao embassy or the Department of Immigration.

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.
On this page
Route type
Transit through Laos
Length of stay
Short transit period
Exact permitted days and fee not confirmed from an official published figure
Purpose
Passing through Laos
For travellers transiting Laos en route to a third country, not for tourism or a general visit.
Maximum stay
Short transit period
Reported as a few days only; the exact maximum is not confirmed on an official Lao source.
Number of entries
Single entry
One transit only; the visa is not extendable.
Where to apply
Lao embassy or consulate
Applied for before travel; availability on arrival is not guaranteed.
Passport validity
At least 6 months on arrival
Standard Lao entry requirement, with a blank page for the stamp.

Who it is for

  • Travellers passing through Laos to a third country
  • Those who need short entry to continue onward travel

How to apply

  • Apply at a Lao embassy or consulate, or check availability at the entry point
  • Provide passport, onward travel evidence and any required documents

Requirements

  • You must be travelling through Laos on your way to a third country, not staying as a visitor.
  • Hold a confirmed onward ticket and, where required, a valid visa for the onward destination.
  • Passport valid for more than 6 months beyond arrival, with a blank page.
  • Show sufficient funds to cover the short transit stay.
  • Depart within the permitted transit period — the visa cannot be extended and does not allow work.

Documents you may need

  • Passport valid for more than 6 months, with a blank page
  • Confirmed onward or return air/road ticket
  • Visa for the onward country if that country requires one
  • Evidence of sufficient funds
  • Recent passport-style photo

Frequently asked questions

  • Not always. If you qualify for visa-free entry or an eVisa you would normally use that instead. A transit visa is aimed at travellers who do not qualify for those routes but need to pass through Laos to reach another country.

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.

Related Laotian visas

Book a consultation