Visa & Entry
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Germans, Austrians, and Swiss need a visa for Laos. The easiest option is the Visa on Arrival, which you get directly at the border:
- Cost: 30 USD for German citizens (36 USD for Swiss, 42 USD for Austrians — prices vary by nationality!)
- Validity: 30 days from entry
- Required: Passport (valid for at least 6 months), 2 passport photos (some border posts do not require them, but bring them just in case), USD in cash and exact amount!
- Available at: All international airports (Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse) and major land border crossings (Friendship Bridge, Huay Xai, Vang Tao/Chong Mek)
e-Visa (Alternative)
Since 2019, there is also an e-Visa that you can apply for online:
- Website: laoevisa.gov.la (official site)
- Cost: 50 USD (more expensive than VOA, but no queuing)
- Processing time: 3 working days
- Only valid at: Wattay Airport (Vientiane), Luang Prabang Airport, Friendship Bridge
Extension
The 30-day visa can be extended for another 30 days at the Immigration Office in Vientiane (about 50,000 LAK/day). Overstay: 10 USD fine per day upon departure.
Land Border Crossings
| Border | Neighboring Country | VOA Possible |
|---|---|---|
| Friendship Bridge (Nong Khai/Vientiane) | Thailand | Yes |
| Huay Xai / Chiang Khong | Thailand | Yes |
| Vang Tao / Chong Mek | Thailand | Yes |
| Boten / Mohan | China | Yes |
| Cau Treo / Nam Phao | Vietnam | Yes |
| Stung Treng / Voen Kham | Cambodia | Yes |
Achtung
Bring USD in cash — many border posts do NOT accept any other currency for the visa. Have passport photos and the exact amount ready. At smaller land borders, an "Overtime Fee" of 1–2 USD is sometimes charged (officially not provided for, but common). Arguing is rarely worthwhile.
