Can I get a visa upon arrival in Laos?

Tourist visas on arrival are available at certain ports of entry and generally permit a stay of 30 days. Verify if your specific entry point offers this.

Is there an online option for a Laos visa?

Yes, you can apply for an eVisa online via laoevisa.gov.la, which is accepted at certain ports of entry.

How long can I stay in Laos with a tourist visa?

A tourist visa generally permits a 30-day stay. This can be extended up to an additional 60 days through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane.

What are the passport requirements for entry to Laos?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry and have at least two blank visa pages.

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Do US citizens need a visa for Laos?

US citizens need a visa to visit Laos, which can be obtained online (eVisa) or on arrival at certain ports, though an eVisa is recommended.

Apply on the official siteLao eVisa Official Website — last checked 28 June 2026

Always confirm with the official source before you travel.

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A tourist visa is required for US citizens traveling to Laos. You can apply for an eVisa online before your trip, or obtain a visa on arrival at specific entry points. The visa on arrival generally permits a 30-day stay, which can be extended.

Key facts

For United States passport holders, tourism or short business trips.

Passport	Regular US passport
Purpose	Tourism
Visa required	Yes — eVisa
Maximum stay	30 days (extendable up to an additional 60 days)
Passport validity	Six months beyond date of entry
Return/onward ticket	Recommended (not explicitly stated as required but good practice)
Arrival form	None mentioned
Last checked	28 June 2026

You may need a visa if…

Tourist visas on arrival are only available at certain ports of entry; verify your entry point accepts them.
The eVisa option is available at certain ports of entry, check the official eVisa website for details.
A visa on arrival generally permits a 30-day stay; extensions are possible through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane.
Your passport must have at least six months validity remaining from the date of entry.
You need at least two blank visa pages in your passport.
Check for updated travel advisories for regions within Laos due to civil unrest and unexploded ordnance.

Before you travel

Obtain a tourist visa either through the eVisa system or plan for a visa on arrival.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into Laos.
Confirm your passport has at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Review the laos official eVisa website (laoevisa.gov.la) to confirm eligibility for your port of entry.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane.
Check current travel advisories from the U.S. State Department for any updates.