If you are planning to travel to Laos, note that all U.S. citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter the country. While a "Visa on Arrival" is still available at many checkpoints, the easiest and most efficient way for most travelers to meet this requirement is to obtain the Laos Electronic Visa (E-Visa).
The Laos E-Visa allows you to apply and receive your travel authorization online before your departure. By using the dedicated E-Visa lanes at all major ports of entry, you can avoid the long lines and potential "extra fees" often associated with the traditional arrival process.
Apply for your Laos E-Visa quickly and securely with iVisa today! Let iVisa help you navigate the strict photo requirements and the new 2026 digital immigration forms for a smooth application.
On This Page
- What is the Laos E-Visa?
- Do I Need a Laos E-Visa?
- Laos E-Visa Features: Validity and Stay Limits
- Applying for Your E-Visa: DIY vs. Full-Service
- Where Can I Enter Laos with an E-Visa?
- The Official Laos E-Visa Process: A 3-Step Guide
- Beyond the E-Visa: Other Laos Entry Requirements
- Laos E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Laos E-Visa?
The Laos E-Visa is an official, digital travel authorization issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR. It is specifically designed for tourism. Unlike a traditional embassy visa that requires a passport sticker in advance, the E-Visa is an Approval Letter that you print and present at the border to receive an entry stamp.
Do I Need a Laos E-Visa?
Yes, as a U.S. citizen, you need a visa to enter Laos. The E-Visa is the most common choice for tourists planning a stay of up to 30 days.
You should apply for a Laos E-Visa if your purpose is:
- Tourism: Vacationing, touring sites.
- Leisure: Short-term vacations and visiting friends or relatives.
Note: The E-Visa is only for Tourist (T-B3) visas. If you are traveling for business, study, or official government work, you must obtain a specialized visa from a Laotian Embassy before you travel.
Laos E-Visa Features: Validity and Stay Limits
The Laos E-Visa is a single-entry authorization for short-term stays.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Gov. Fee: | $50 USD (non-refundable). |
| Validity Period: | 60 days from the date the Approval Letter is issued. |
| Entries: | Single Entry only. |
| Maximum Stay: | Up to 30 days. |
Applying for Your E-Visa: DIY vs. Assisted Service
The Lao government manages the visa application process through its official portal, which requires precise image uploads and international credit card payments.
- On Your Own (DIY): For travelers comfortable handling their own travel documentation and navigating government portals, the official Lao E-Visa website is the direct pathway.
- Using an Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer a safe and simplified process with expert review, a dedicated service is a great option. iVisa simplifies the travel documentation requirements, checks all uploads (such as your photo and bio-page) against the strict Laotian government specifications, and provides 24/7 bilingual support to help you avoid common mistakes that can lead to a rejected application.
To enter Laos, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry. You also need at least two blank passport pages for your entry/exit stamps. If you do not meet these requirements, renew your passport before applying for a Laos tourist E-Visa.
Check Expedited Passport Renewal Options (1-Week Service Available)
Where Can I Enter Laos with an E-Visa?
E-Visas are only accepted at specific international checkpoints. Current valid entry points include:
- Airports: Wattay (Vientiane), Luang Prabang, and Pakse International Airports.
- Land Borders (Thailand): Lao-Thai Friendship Bridges I, II, and IV.
- Land Borders (China): Boten International Checkpoint and the Boten Railway Station.
- Railway: Khamsavath Railway Station (Vientiane).
The Official Laos E-Visa Process: A 3-Step Guide
The Laos E-Visa application must be completed online. It is highly recommended to apply at least 7–10 days before your trip.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Processing Time: | Standard 3 business days. |
| Recommendation: | Apply at least 10 days before your departure. |
Step 1: Get Your Information Ready
- Valid U.S. Passport: Must have at least 6 months' validity and 2 blank passport pages for your entry/exit stamps.
- Passport Photo: A digital photo (4x6 cm, color, white background, no glasses, taken within 6 months).
- Bio Page Scan: A clear, color scan of your passport’s information page (including the MRZ lines at the bottom).
Step 2: Complete the Online Visa Application
- Access the official portal or use a service like iVisa.
- Fill out the form exactly as it appears on your U.S. passport.
- Upload your portrait photo and passport bio-page scan.
Step 3: Pay and Receive Your E-Visa
- Pay the $50 non-refundable government fee via credit card.
- Confirmation: Once approved, the E-Visa Approval Letter is sent to your email.
- You must print one copy to carry with your passport.
Beyond the E-Visa: Other Laos Entry Requirements
An approved E-Visa does not guarantee entry. The final decision rests with the immigration officer at the border.
Be prepared to show:
- Printed E-Visa Approval Letter: You must present a physical copy of your Approval Letter upon arrival. There are dedicated E-Visa immigration lanes at all major Lao airports.
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date.
- Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF): All foreign travelers must complete a mandatory digital arrival/departure form before or upon arrival.
- Proof of Funds: You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds (approx. $50/day).
- Minors: All children, including infants, require their own visa. If a minor is traveling without a parent, a signed and notarized consent letter is highly recommended.
For more details on border rules, see our guide to Laos Entry Requirements.
Laos E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. All U.S. citizens must have a valid visa. The E-Visa is the recommended choice for tourists staying in Laos for up to 30 days.
Once you receive your Approval Letter, you have 60 days to use it to enter Laos. Once you enter, you may stay for up to 30 days.
No. E-Visas are only accepted at specific major ports like Wattay Airport and the Friendship Bridges. Check the "Where Can I Enter Laos with an E-Visa?" section above before booking travel.
Yes. You must present a printed copy of the Approval Letter at the immigration counter upon arrival.
Yes. You can apply for a visa extension (up to 60 additional days) at the Department of Immigration in Vientiane for a daily fee.
Apply for your Laos E-Visa quickly and securely with iVisa today! Let iVisa help you navigate the 2026 requirements and documentation specifications for a smooth entry into Laos.
