Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
in advance - for a comprehensive list see
laos-guide-999.com
.
To cross into Laos from all
other points, you'll need to arrange a visa before arriving at the border. Like visas on arrival,
pre-arranged tourist visas
allow for a stay of up to thirty days. Prices are generally a little
higher though - especially if you pay a tour operator to help you out - so avoid buying one
unless your border crossing demands it. If it does, visas can be obtained directly from Lao
embassies and consulates. At the Lao embassy in
Bangkok
, thirty-day visas cost 1400 baht
for nationals of the UK, US and Ireland, 1200 baht for those from Australia, New Zealand
and South Africa, and 1680 baht for Canadians. You'll need to take two passport-sized photos
with you but, provided you apply before noon, processing can usually be done on the same
day.
Advancevisas
can also be obtained at the Lao consulate in Khon Kaen, in the northeast
of Thailand, or through one of the many travel agents concentrated on or around Khao San
Road. However, prices (and processing fees) can vary wildly. Wherever you choose to get
your visa, bear in mind that Lao visa regulations and prices are subject to frequent change.
The Lao embassy in Hanoi, and consulates in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, can also
issue visas, but it's important to note that the prices charged vary from place to place. Lao
visas issued in Vietnam are also slightly more expensive than those issued in Thailand.
LAO VISAS
Visa on arrival
Thirty days. Available at Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), Pakse
Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, and all Thai-Lao border crossings open to
foreigners except the border at Paksan. Also available at border crossings with Vietnam
(Nam Khan, Na Meo, Bo Y, Tay Trang, Cau Treo and Lao Bao), Cambodia (Dom Kralor)
and China (Mo Han).
Touristvisa(T)
Thirty days. Required for all border crossings where visa on arrival is not
available. Can be arranged in advance at Lao embassies and consulates, or through tour
operators in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Visitor visa (B3)
One-month stay. Extendable for two further months. Lao guarantor re-
quired, and intended for those visiting relatives who work in Laos.
Transitvisa(TR)
Allows for a maximum of five days' stay and intended to help travellers
who wish to make a short stopover in Laos. The visa is only valid for one province, and
takes three working days to process. To qualify you must have proof of an onward journey
within five days.
Business visa (B2)
One-month stay, but can be extended until the end of your business
term. Requires a Lao sponsor.
Multipleentryvisa
Only issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Consular Department.
