September 11, 2023
Laos visa for US citizens
All US citizens willing to visit Laos must obtain a Laos visa. According to the Laos visa policy, US travelers are able to get it entirely online.
Laos eVisa was introduced in 2019 to speed up the application process for foreign visitors. Since then, it is available online for every eligible citizen with internet access.
The application process for a Laos electronic visa is simple: complete the form, attach documents, and pay the fees. US nationals don’t have to visit an embassy to collect a visa either – the approved Laos eVisa will be delivered straight to the applicant’s email address.
Laos online visa is issued as a single-entry visa for tourist purposes such as sightseeing and visiting family members and friends. The eVisa to Laos stays valid for 60 days from issue and allows a stay in the country for up to 30 days.
Entry into Laos can be made exclusively through the entry point supporting electronic visas. The customs officers will ask US travelers to show a valid passport and a paper copy of an active Laos eVisa.
How to obtain a visa to Laos from the US
US nationals can enjoy a maximally simplified way of obtaining a Laos visa. They can avoid attending an embassy or consulate in person and apply directly from home with the help of their smartphones or other devices like a tablet, laptop, or personal computer.
The application process for a Laos eVisa is easy and takes little time. To obtain a visa to Laos online, follow this guide:
- Click the ‘Apply Online’ button on our website and fill out the form. You should provide the requested information in a complete and accurate way.
- Upload the documentation. Attach the digital copies of your passport and face photograph.
- Make the payment. Our website has a variety of online payment methods to offer.
When your online visa to Laos is approved, you will get a notification via email. Download the PDF document with an approved Laos visa and make a paper copy.
Laos visa requirements
Required documents
US nationals need to provide two documents in order to apply for an electronic visa to Laos online:
- a US passport that does not expire at least 6 months after arrival in Laos
- a face photograph taken recently
Since the application process for a Laos eVisa takes place online, applicants are required to attach documents in a digital form. It is possible to use a scanner and take photos using a smartphone camera or a web camera.
Requirements on arrival
To enter Laos, US citizens must present the mandatory entry documents upon arrival:
- a valid passport
- an approved eVisa to Laos (a paper copy)
At the entry port, you will also get your passport stamped, and the customs officials will take your fingerprints.
Laos visa validity period for Americans
As stipulated by the Laos visa policy, the validity period of the Laos visa is 60 days from the date of issue. US passport holders can enter Laos once during this period. A visit to Laos can last for up to 30 days.
Make sure your passport stays valid and without changes: any modifications to its data will make the Laos eVisa invalid.
Laos eVisa processing time and fees
Processing time
The standard processing time for the Laos eVisa application is several business days. It is hard to predict the exact time for processing, as each situation is individual.
Be ready for some delays during busy seasons and in case of technical issues. It is also extremely important to check the information provided in the Laos visa application form: errors, typos, or lack of required details may all cause prolonged processing or even visa refusal. Ensure your data is entirely complete and correct.
Laos visa fees
The full price of Laos eVisa for US nationals is 99 Euro. You can cover the fees online. The available payment methods include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Sofort/Klarna, and others.
Transit information
US citizens planning on visiting Laos only with the aim of transiting to another country still must obtain a Laos visa.
Since Laos does not issue a separate transit visa, foreign travelers must get a Laos tourist visa. Apply for a Laos eVisa online and in advance to avoid issues at the entry point.
Ports supporting Laos eVisa
The eVisa holders can cross the Laos borders only through one of the following entry ports:
- Wattay International Airport (Vientiane Capital)
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane Capital)
- Luang Prabang International Airport (Luang Prabang Province)
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II (Savanakhet Province)
- Pakse International Airport (Champasack Province)
Julia
Julia's expertise lies in providing professional content, simplifying the visa application process for travelers worldwide. Her dedication to delivering valuable and accurate information, combined with her love for exploring new cultures, inspires others to discover new horizons and embark on their own adventures.
