From application to arrival
Prepare your information, use the official application channel and check the issued document.
Prepare your application
Apply through the official Lao MFA service before travel, upload the passport bio page and photo, pay online, then download the approval letter.
Submit through the official channel
Use Lao tourist eVisa. Check the current instructions and total government charges before paying.
Review the decision before departure
Check the passport details, dates and entry conditions on the permission you receive.
Check your trip dates
Count your travel days and compare your passport expiry with the entry rule.
What to prepare for your trip
Check each item as you prepare it. Labels show which documents are required, conditional, or recommended.
Your circumstances may require additional documents. Ticks track preparation, not eligibility or admission.
Costs & timing
Government charges and decision times for this route. Check the official service for your final fee.
Decision time
Up to 3 working days
Usually three working days for a complete paid application; it can take longer if information needs review or over public holidays.
A processing estimate is not a guaranteed travel date.
Permission validity
60 days
Maximum validity. Read the actual dates on your issued permission.
Validity is separate from how long you can stay on each visit.
Complete the required travel authorisation in advance
Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF)
Available from 3 days before arrival. All foreign nationals entering Laos must submit the LDIF digitally within 3 days before arrival and again within 3 days before departure. It applies at Wattay, Luang Prabang and Pakse international airports and Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I, where it replaces paper arrival and departure cards. It does not replace a visa.
Open Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF)Details that can change your plans
Use a designated Lao eVisa entry point
A Lao eVisa is accepted only at the government’s nine listed airports, bridges and rail/border checkpoints. Check the live list before booking; an eVisa cannot be used at every visa-on-arrival crossing.
Official guidanceUse the passport linked to the eVisa
If you apply online, enter Laos with the same ordinary passport used for the eVisa application and carry the printed approval letter.
Each child needs an eVisa
If using the online route, apply separately for each child or infant who needs a visa.
A tourist visa can be extended in Laos
From 1 January 2025, tourist visas may be extended twice while in Laos, for up to 60 additional days total. Use the current Department of Immigration procedure and wait for confirmation before relying on an extension.
Official guidanceLaos at a glance
- Capital
- Vientiane
- Currency
- LAK
- Calling code
- +856
Questions for this route
Do travelers with an ordinary passport from Democratic Republic of the Congo need a visa for Laos?
For tourism in Laos, travelers using an ordinary passport from Democratic Republic of the Congo should arrange an eVisa before travel. Apply through the official Lao MFA service before travel, upload the passport bio page and photo, pay online, then download the approval letter. The published short-visit limit is 30 days per visit; follow any shorter period on your granted permission.
How long can I stay in Laos?
The short-visit limit is 30 days per visit. Your actual permission can be shorter; check the dates and conditions you receive.
How much passport validity do I need?
At least 6 months after arrival. At least 1 blank page.
How long does a decision take?
Up to 3 working days. Usually three working days for a complete paid application; it can take longer if information needs review or over public holidays.
How long is the authorisation valid?
60 days. This is different from the permitted length of each visit.
Do I need to complete Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF)?
Required for this route. Available from 3 days before arrival. All foreign nationals entering Laos must submit the LDIF digitally within 3 days before arrival and again within 3 days before departure. It applies at Wattay, Luang Prabang and Pakse international airports and Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I, where it replaces paper arrival and departure cards. It does not replace a visa. It does not replace a required visa or travel authorisation.
Can I extend my stay in Laos?
From 1 January 2025, tourist visas may be extended twice while in Laos, for up to 60 additional days total. Use the current Department of Immigration procedure and wait for confirmation before relying on an extension.
What if I’m going to work, study or stay longer?
This guide is for a short tourist visit on an ordinary passport. It does not establish eligibility for employment, study or residence. Use the destination’s official guidance for your actual purpose.
Does my country of residence change the answer?
Passport nationality and legal residence are different. This page starts with your passport. Residence can change where you apply and which application channel is available; an existing visa or residence permit may also create an exception. Check the official eligibility guidance for your circumstances.
Official websites
Use these government websites to confirm requirements and complete any application.
Open Lao tourist eVisa
Apply through the official Lao MFA service before travel, upload the passport bio page and photo, pay online, then download the approval letter.
Open Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF)
Check the Lao eVisa fee
Select your passport nationality in the MFA calculator; bank charges are shown separately.
Track the Lao eVisa application
Use the application ID and passport number to see its current status.
About this guide
This guide covers short tourist visits on an ordinary passport. Your nationality, residence, travel document and purpose can affect the entry conditions. Check the linked official guidance before travel; the border authority decides admission and your permitted stay.
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