When arriving in Laos, travelers should have their passport, visa, and required documents ready for immigration inspection. Visa requirements vary by nationality, so it is important to check regulations before travel. Following immigration guidelines carefully will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. For added convenience, professional immigration or fast-track services may also be arranged.

Visa entry options

• Lao Embassy or Consulate: You can apply for a tourist visa in person before your trip. This method typically allows for a stay of up to 60 days and offers the flexibility of a future extension.
• e-Visa Portal: https://laoevisa.gov.la/index. For a more streamlined experience, you can apply online through the official government portal. This is often the fastest option for those who prefer to have their paperwork settled before departure.
• Visa on Arrival: If you prefer a last-minute approach, visas are available upon arrival at most international airports and major land border crossings.

Things to bring for visa on arrival:

1. Original passport (valid for at least 6 months with 2+ blank pages),
2. One or two recent passport-sized photos (4x6cm or 3x4cm) or $1 will be charged in case of no photos.
3. USD cash ($40 for all nationalities) for the fee. Except for Chinese and Vietnamese nationals.

Digital Immigration Form

Effective 1st September 2025, all international travelers are now required to complete a digital immigration form prior to their arrival and departure at: www.immigration.gov.la       or Scan QR code as below.

NOTE: Available only at FOUR international check points including;

1.Wattay International Airport,

2.Luangprabang International Airport,

3.Pakse International Airport

4.Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I, 

Other check points still use paper arrival cards.

The most notable visa exemption is for citizens of ASEAN member countries, which include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, along with South Korea. These citizens are granted visa-free entry for up to 30 days, provided that they meet certain requirements, such as having a valid passport and return ticket.

Other countries that enjoy visa exemptions to Laos include Japan, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Russia, and Mongolia, each of which allows for visa-free stays of up to 15 or 21 days, depending on the country.

In addition, Belarus, China, North Korea, and Cuba have specific exemptions for certain types of passport holders, such as diplomatic or official passports.

Laos generally enjoys a mild tropical climate, but it can get quite chilly in the cool season. Temperatures range from 10 – 40 degrees Celsius in the Mekong Valley and may dip below zero in the mountains and on the Xieng Khouang and Bolaven Plateaus. 

Cool-season:             November – February

Hot season:               March-May

Rainy season:           June -October

• Lao Airlines operates both domestic and international connections to all major cities in Laos. They are using the ATR 72-200 (70 seats), MA 60 (56 seats), and A320. Lao Airlines is giving 20 kg of checked baggage and 5 kg of carry-on. Excess baggage will be charged at $5 per kilo for both domestic and international flights.
• Lao Skyway is the second carrier that serves flights to main cities, including small cities where Lao Airlines cannot land, for instance, Sam Nua, Oudomxay, Phongsaly, and Houaixai using MA60 (56 seats), MI-17VI (22 seats), and CESSANA 208 (11 seats).
• Lao-China Railway (LCR) is the primary mode of transport in our itinerary. There are several essential details clients should be aware of before boarding.

For the safety and comfort of all passengers, prohibited items include firearms, explosives, knives, sharp objects, and any items that may cause injury. Pets, wildlife, and animal products are also not permitted onboard. In addition, vapes, IQOS devices, alcohol, and aerosol canisters such as body sprays are strictly prohibited. Please ensure all restricted items are removed from your luggage before travel.

Please limit your luggage to what you can comfortably carry. The LCR stops are brief—typically only 3 minutes—so you must be ready at the exit doors with all your bags before the train arrives at your station.

Seat assignment is not possible in advance for both carriers. If you wish to secure a seat, please inform our guide in advance for an early departure arrangement.