Laos, a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia, has updated its visa policies for 2025. Whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, understanding the latest visa regulations is essential to ensure a smooth entry. Below is a detailed guide from Vietnam DMC on visa exemptions, blacklisted countries, and general visa procedures for visiting Laos.
Visa-Free Countries for Laos (January 2025 Update)
As of January 2025, 15 countries are eligible for visa-free entry into Laos. Visitors from these countries can enter and stay in Laos without a visa for a specified number of days:
List of Visa-Free Countries and Duration:
1. Brunei – 14 days
2. Cambodia – 30 days
3. Indonesia – 30 days
4. Japan – 15 days
5. Luxembourg – 15 days
6. Malaysia – 30 days
7. Mongolia – 30 days
8. Myanmar – 14 days
9. Philippines – 30 days
10. Russia – 30 days
11. Singapore – 30 days
12. South Korea – 30 days
13. Switzerland – 15 days
14. Thailand – 30 days
15. Vietnam – 30 days
Note: Visitors must ensure their passport has at least six months of validity and a return ticket, as these are commonly required upon entry.
Blacklisted Countries for Laos Entry
Currently, 25 countries are blacklisted and face entry restrictions to Laos. Travelers from these countries may need special approval or may not be permitted to enter under normal circumstances. The rate of getting a visa in these countries is only 1%, extremely difficult.
List of Blacklisted Countries:
1. Afghanistan
2. Algeria
3. Bangladesh
4. Burundi
5. Cameroon
6. Congo
7. Cote d’Ivoire
8. Ghana
9. Guinea
10. Guinea Bissau
11. Jordan
12. Lesotho
13. Liberia
14. Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
15. Mozambique
16. Nauru
17. Niger
18. Nigeria
19. Pakistan
20. Senegal
21. Sierra Leone
22. Suriname
23. Swaziland
24. Tonga
25. Zimbabwe
If you hold a passport from one of these countries, it is recommended to contact the nearest Lao embassy for more information regarding entry possibilities.
Laos Visa-on-Arrival and E-Visa Options
For travelers who are not from visa-free countries and are not blacklisted, Laos offers the following visa options:
Visa-on-Arrival:
– Available at major international airports and land borders.
– Valid for 30 days, with an option to extend.
– Requirements include:
+ A passport with at least six months of validity.A passport-sized photo.
+ A visa fee (usually between $30–$50 USD, depending on nationality).
E-Visa Application:
– Convenient for online application before arrival.
– Typically processed within 3-5 business days.
– Apply via the official Lao immigration website.
+ Required documents include:
+ Passport scan.
