Last updated: December 5, 2025
✅ What’s New in 2025
- From 1 September 2025, Laos began rolling out its Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF).
- The system currently applies to major airports and selected land borders, with nationwide rollout expected in 2026.
- Visa on arrival & e-visa options remain the same.
Laos Digital Arrival Form (LDIF) – Important Travel Notice
Travellers to Laos may now be required to complete a digital arrival form online before travel under the new Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF) system. This digital registration replaces the traditional paper arrival and departure cards at selected entry points.
Please note that the LDIF is separate from visa requirements — travellers must still apply for the appropriate visa (e-Visa, visa on arrival, or embassy-issued visa) as required for their nationality.
As the LDIF is currently being rolled out in phases, travellers are strongly advised to confirm whether their specific entry point requires LDIF registration before departure.
If you’re dreaming of slow travel in Laos, good news—Laos makes it easy for most travelers to visit!
Here’s your complete, up-to-date guide for UK, US, Australian, Canadian, and other tourists.
Visa on Arrival
Who can get it?
- UK, US, Australia, Canada, EU, New Zealand, and most other nationalities
- Available at all international airports (Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Savannakhet) and most overland borders with Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and China.
Validity: 30 days (extendable)
Price:
- US $40 for most nationalities
- UK: US $35
- Australia, Canada, US: US $40
- EU: US $35–$40 (varies)
What you need:
- 1 passport photo
- Cash in USD (sometimes THB accepted, but best to bring USD)
- Make sure you have the latest notes and they are in perfect condition. No creases, tears or marks.
- Cash in USD (sometimes THB accepted, but best to bring USD)
Application form (available at the border/airport)
E-Visa for Laos
Skip the queue and apply online!
- Apply here: Laos Official E-Visa
- Airports/Checkpoints: Accepted at Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse airports, and several major land borders
- Price: $50 USD (processing fee included)
- Processing time: 3 working days
Embassy Visa
- Apply in advance at any Lao embassy/consulate for a 30-day tourist visa.
- Useful if crossing at a remote border or wanting extra peace of mind
Extensions
- Where: Immigration offices in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and other major cities
- Fee: ~$2 USD per day for each day extended (minimum 7 days)
You can usually extend once per visit.
Land vs. Air Arrivals
- Airports: Quick and easy, lines move fast
Land borders: Sometimes slower, but the process is similar—just be sure you’re at an international crossing (not a local one).
Required Documents
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Passport photo
Visa fee in USD
Internal Links for Laos Planning:
For updates and official info, check:
Laos Ministry of Foreign Affairs
👉🏻 Planning more travels in Southeast Asia? Check out our other visa guides for Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia.