Laos is a Southeast Asian country known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and friendly people. Laos is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience something different. However, in the past, obtaining a visa to visit Laos could be a bit of a hassle. That's all changed with the introduction of the Laos e-Visa.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the Laos e-Visa, including the application process, requirements, and frequently asked questions.
Laos e-Visa - An Overview
The Laos government has set different entry requirements for different passport holders. While some countries enjoy visa-free entry, citizens from other countries must obtain a valid visa prior to entering Laos, even for transiting purposes.
The Laos embassy offers two types of travel documents; traditional visas and electronic visas. If you prefer convenience, a Laos e-visa is undoubtedly a better option for you as you can apply for this travel document from the comfort of your home.
Following are two types of e-visas foreign nationals can get to enter Laos:
Tourist e-Visa - Laos tourist visa is a single-entry travel document that allows you to stay in the country for 30 consecutive days within a 60-day period. It's valid for visiting friends or family members, exploring the country, or spending holidays in Laos.
Business e-Visa - Alternatively, applicants can also apply for a Laos business visa online. It permits holders to enter the country to enroll in a training program or meet with business associates. It's also valid for 60 days, permitting a stay of a maximum of 30 days.
Requirements for the Laos e-Visa
Prior to applying for the Laos e-Visa, you will need to gather meet certain visa requirements. These requirements may vary depending on nationality and visa type. However, some of the general requirements to get a Laos visa online include the following:
A passport that is valid for at least six months
A digital passport-sized photo
A credit or debit card for payment
A valid email address to receive the confirmation email
It's important to note that the Laos e-Visa is only for tourism or business purposes. If you plan to work, study, or reside in Laos, you will need to apply for a different type of visa. Moreover, while traveling to the country, you also need to fulfill entry requirements as immigration officers make the final decision.
How to Apply for the Laos e-Visa
In the past, applicants were required to visit the embassy to apply for a traditional Laos visa. At the embassy, you were required to complete several forms and schedule a visa interview. This was a comparatively complex and time-consuming process.
However, now, foreign nationals can apply for a Laos online visa from the comfort of their home. All they need to do is partner up with VisaHQ! Here are the steps you need to follow:
Gather the required documents, including a passport that is valid for at least six months, a digital passport-sized photo, and a credit or debit card for payment.
Visit the VisaHQ website and select your citizenship
Fill out the online application form, and make sure to double-check your information before submitting the form.
Pay the e-Visa fee using online means of payment.
Submit your online application form with supporting documents
Once you submit your Laos application form, the embassy will process it. If everything is in order, you'll receive your e-visa via email! Afterward, print out the e-Visa or save it on your mobile device to show at the border.
Visa Application Form
The applicant's visa application form is undoubtedly the most important part of the Laos visa application process. Without it, you cannot apply online for your electronic visa. To complete this form, you'll need to provide the following information:
Personal information such as full name, date of birth, and place of birth.
Passport information, including passport number, expiration date, and place of issue.
Contact information, including email address and phone number.
Travel information, including the purpose of the trip and the intended length of stay.
Make sure to double-check the provided information before you submit your application to avoid errors and mistakes.
Processing Time
If you apply for a regular e-visa, it can take 7-10 business days to get processed. However, if you are in a hurry, you can apply for an urgent e-visa. In that scenario, you'll receive your travel document within 3 business days.
Keep in mind that the processing time for a visa depends on several factors, including your application form. Therefore, it's recommended to apply for an e-visa at least 2 weeks prior to the intended departure date!