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Visitor & short-stay visas

Laotian Visa Exemption (Visa-Free Entry)

Nationals of certain countries can enter Laos without a visa for a limited stay, mainly for tourism, with no application needed before travelling.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
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Under review — check current rules

The exact list of visa-exempt nationalities and their stay durations changes over time and should be verified on the official Department of Immigration site before relying on it.

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
Visa-free short-stay entry
Typical stay
30 days for ASEAN members and various other countries
Shorter exemptions
Some nationalities receive shorter stays (e.g. 14-15 days)
Exact country list and durations change; verify before travel
Passport validity
Passport valid for at least 6 months
Maximum stay
Set at entry per agreement
Commonly up to 30 days for ASEAN nationals; some agreements grant only 14 or 15 days. Confirm for the specific nationality.
Cost
Free
No visa fee is charged for exempt nationalities.
Number of entries
Each qualifying entry
Exemption applies on arrival; there is no pre-issued multi-entry document.
Where to apply
No application
Enter directly at an international checkpoint or airport; the entry permit is stamped on arrival.

Who it is for

  • Ordinary-passport holders of visa-exempt countries (including ASEAN members)
  • Visitors making a short trip within the permitted exemption period

What you can do

  • Enter without applying for a visa in advance
  • Stay up to the exemption period for your nationality
  • Use the visa routes above if you need to stay longer or work/study/invest

Requirements

  • Hold a passport of a country that has a visa-exemption agreement with Laos.
  • Passport valid for more than 6 months beyond your date of arrival, with at least one blank page.
  • Enter for tourism or a short private/business visit only — paid employment is not allowed without separate authorisation.
  • Hold proof of onward or return travel and sufficient funds for your stay.
  • Leave, extend, or convert your status before the exemption period stamped on entry expires.

How to apply

  • No advance visa application is needed — the exemption is granted automatically on arrival.
  • Present your passport to immigration at an international border checkpoint or airport.
  • Immigration stamps an entry permit for the period your nationality is entitled to.
  • To stay beyond the exempt period, apply to extend at the Department of Immigration, or leave and re-enter, or obtain an eVisa / visa on arrival.

Documents you may need

  • Passport valid for more than 6 months, with a blank page
  • Onward or return travel ticket
  • Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
  • Proof of accommodation or address in Laos (may be requested)

Frequently asked questions

  • It depends on your nationality and the specific agreement. ASEAN nationals are commonly allowed up to 30 days, while some other agreements grant only 14 or 15 days. Check the exemption length for your own passport before travelling, as the period is fixed on entry and overstaying carries a daily fine.

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.

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