Current DossierSubject · Canadian passportFile · LAOS

Does Laos require a visa for Canadian citizens?

Straight answer, official source, and how long it takes.

Last checked 22 Jul 2026Source · Laos e-Visa Official WebsiteHow we source this →
Visa Panic answer
eVisa requiredLow panic

Do Canadian citizens need a visa for Laos?

Yes, Canadian citizens need a visa to enter Laos.

Apply on the official siteLaos e-Visa Official Website — last checked 22 July 2026
Always confirm with the official source before you travel.
Your panic level

When are you travelling?

Add your travel date and we'll tell you exactly how much to panic, based on typical processing times.

eVisa typically takes around a week.

Health FileSubject · LaosChecked · 22 Jul 2026

Vaccinations for Laos

Book a travel clinic appointment 6–8 weeks before you fly.

Conditional

Only if arriving from a risk area

Required only if you're travelling from — or transiting through — a country with active transmission.

  • Yellow Fever

    Certificate required if arriving from (or transiting) a country with yellow fever transmission risk.

Recommended on health grounds

Not required for entry — advised by NHS / CDC for most travellers.

  • Hepatitis A

    Recommended — food & water borne.

  • Typhoid

    Recommended, especially for longer stays or rural travel.

  • Rabies

    Consider for rural travel, cyclists, and long trips.

  • Japanese Encephalitis

    Consider for rural stays, especially in monsoon season.

  • Malaria prevention

    No vaccine — antimalarials + bite avoidance recommended for risk regions.

→ Read the Yellow Fever briefing

Which countries require the certificate, timing, cost, and the 10-day validity rule.

Not medical advice. Always confirm with your GP, travel nurse, or a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre — requirements change and can vary based on where you're arriving from.

Colour KeyCalm— no visaMedium— ETA / eVisaPanic— full visa

Deep breath. Here's the answer.

Canadian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-Visa online before travelling to Laos. For tourism or short business trips, these options are generally straightforward and cover stays up to 30 days.

Key facts

For Canadian passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

PassportCanadian passport
PurposeTourism / short business trip
Visa requiredYes — eVisa
Maximum stay30 days (extendable)
Passport validityAt least 6 months beyond intended stay
Return/onward ticketYes, highly recommended
Arrival formRequired (usually provided on arrival)
Last checked22 July 2026

You may need a visa if…

  • Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for stamps.
  • Overstaying your visa can result in heavy fines and potential detention.
  • Visa fees are typically paid in USD and may vary slightly depending on where you obtain it.
  • While a visa on arrival is possible, applying for an e-Visa beforehand can save time at the border.
  • Business travellers should confirm if their specific activities require a different visa type beyond a standard tourist visa.
  • Entry requirements can change; always verify close to your travel date.

Before you travel

  • Obtain an e-Visa or prepare for a visa on arrival (photos, fee).
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your trip.
  • Book your return or onward ticket.
  • Arrange comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Check recommended vaccinations and health precautions.
  • Make copies of important documents (passport, visa, bookings).

Common questions

Yes, Canadian citizens need a visa to enter Laos for tourism or business purposes. You can apply for an e-Visa online or obtain a visa on arrival.

Related destinations

Field Report Provenance

Human-checked

Every dossier is written from official government sources, then re-checked on 22 Jul 2026.

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Not legal advice

Always cross-check with the linked official source before you book. Read our methodology and disclaimer.