Laos e-Visa for U.S citizens - Requirements and Cost

Not only a famous tourist country like other countries in the region, but Laos also has its own extremely interesting and attractive places to visit in Southeast Asia. As ancient cities, towns have ancient heritage sites, shimmering Buddhist temples, amazing nature, delicious food and warm people.

Laos has great tourism potential, with countless scenic spots. This Southeast Asian country is waiting for a new breeze for international visitors to consider it an interesting and favorite destination. Wherever you go in Laos, you will encounter breathtaking views, tasty food and friendly people. From bustling cities to remote villages, each has its own beauty and appeal.

However, if you want to experience the culture as well as the cuisine here, you must have a valid visa first. The Laos government has some restrictions and visa requirements for US citizens. American travelers can learn more about those requirements at Laos Immigration Services website.

Laos Visa Requirements For US citizens

US citizens are not in the exempt nationalities list for visa-free of Laos, therefore, a Laos e-visa is REQUIRED.

Travelers from the US can request a visa by applying at the Embassy of Laos or applying online. Despite going to the Embassy, US citizens can apply online at Laos Immigration Services website to avoid long lines waiting and time saving.

Types of Laos e-visa for US Citizens

Since July 9, 2019, the Laos Government has approved the e-visa online system for about 96 eligible countries. Thanks to the convenient program, the system makes it easy for US citizens to apply for an e-visa. Tourist e-visa is the only type of visa that the government allows to apply for tourism or visit purposes only.

This tourist visa is authorized for a 60-day validity period from the issued date with a single entry. By using this type of e-visa, US citizens can stay in Laos for a maximum of 30 days for sightseeing, traveling or paying a visit to their acquaintances.

US nationals who want to travel to Lao for other reasons such as living, working or studying must apply for a paper (traditional) visa at the Laos Embassy in United States

How To Apply For A Lao e-Visa from US

A US citizen who wants to apply for a Laos e-visa for entering this country can follow below steps to get one easily:

• Step 1: Applicant’s personal information as well as travel plans must be provided in this step including name, gender, nationality, passport numbers and travel date details. Remember to check it twice before going to the next step, any wrong information cannot be changed once submitted to the government.
• Step 2: After checking, applicants are required to pay for the e-visa fee through our website. While waiting for the e-visa to be processed, we will ask you for additional documents to complete the procedure.
• Step 3: Get approval for Laos e-visa through your email box after it is considered. The result will be sent in a PDF file, so travelers must print it out before going to the airport.

The Laos e-visa result will be processed in no more than 3 business days. In order not to be late for your travel date, travelers must send an application in advance at least 7 days to avoid any unexpected delays.

Check Laos e-Visa Requirements For US citizens

Here are a few documents that US nationals must prepare on hand for having a quickly progress:

• US passport holders must make sure their passports are effective for more than 6 months from the date of entry. Two blank passports papers are commended for having visa stamps.
• A picture/scanned copy of your passport biographical page
• A photo of applicants which has the filename is your full name when it is sent to us.

US travelers can also apply for a Laos visa at the Embassy for reasons other than tourism. However, you should note that you need to prepare many documents more than you expected. The perfect solution is to apply online by using our friendly-used system for granted an electronic visa.

The Cost of Laos e-Visa For US citizens

Applying for a Laos e-visa requires a fee which is separated into different categories: Service fees and Government fees. Travelers can see the more detailed information by clicking the link here.

The Government fee is the amount of money paid to the Government in order for the authority to issue a visa for foreigners. This fee is charged based on the applicants’ nationality and is nonrefundable. Therefore, travelers must be sure about the information declared in the application form.

The Service fee includes the consultation fee (from receiving information to process e-visa) and depends on which processing services that you choose from Laos Immigration Services:

• Standard service: The Laos e-visa will be processed within 3 business days.
• Urgent service: Travelers can get a Laos e-visa in 48 business hours.
• Super Urgent service: This is the fastest service which is processed in 24 business hours.

For paying the e-visa fee, travelers from the US can use any electronic transfer and wire transfer as they want. They can pay fees by credit card or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or PayPal) or by the Bank of Cyprus.

In addition, Laos Immigration Services suggest travelers to purchase Travel Insurance before starting your journey to guarantee the safest for yourself in any unfortunate circumstances. Travel Insurance will cover your loss of luggages as well as medical fee including Covid-19.

Laos Visa Requirements for United States of America Citizens FAQs

Can US citizens travel to Laos?

Laos is known for its natural beauty, ancient Buddhist temples, and cultural diversity. The country's tourism industry has been growing steadily in recent years, with more and more visitors coming to explore its many attractions. 

Laos introduced its e-visa system in July 2019. The e-visa system allows eligible foreign nationals, including US citizens, to apply for a visa online and receive an electronic visa for entry into Laos. The e-visa is valid for up to 30 days and is a single-entry visa, which means that travelers who leave Laos will need to obtain a new visa to re-enter the country. 

The e-visa application process is relatively straightforward and can be completed online through the official website authorized third-party service providers - Laos Immigration Services. However, it is recommended to check the latest information and guidelines regarding travel to Laos, including any visa requirements or restrictions, before planning any trip.

US citizens can travel to Laos by airway. The main international airport in Laos is Wattay International Airport, located in the capital city of Vientiane. There are also other international airports in Laos, including Luang Prabang International Airport, Pakse International Airport, and Savannakhet International Airport. Besides, US citizens can also enter Laos overland from neighboring countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Cambodia.

 

What documents do I need to obtain a Laos visa for US citizens?

To obtain a Laos visa as a US citizen, you will generally need the following documents:

1. A valid US passport with at least six months validity remaining beyond the date of entry into Laos.

2. At least two passport blank pages are required to stamp visa verification. 

3. A completed visa application form which can apply at Laos Immigration Services with detailed consultation and instruction. 

4. At least two digital photographs of applicants which require travelers dressed formally and have no glasses or hats, etc. 

5. Passport biographical page scan

If you do not have all the required documents for the e-visa application, your application may be rejected, or you may be asked to provide additional documentation. It is important to check the specific requirements and guidelines for the e-visa application carefully and ensure that you have all the necessary documents before applying.

If you have any questions or are stuck when applying e-visa, please contact us for further instructions at Laos Immigration Services. 

 

What types of Laos visas can US citizens apply for?

Laos tourism offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. From ancient temples and ruins to stunning natural landscapes, Laos has plenty to offer for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experience. 

To explore and experience all of the beauty of Laos, US citizens must apply for an e-visa to travel to Laos legally. The Laos eVisa is an electronic visa that allows eligible citizens to apply for a tourist visa to Laos online, without having to visit an embassy or consulate in person. As of February 2023, citizens of around 150 countries can apply for a Laos eVisa, including US citizens. However, Laos' government only allows US nationals to apply with tourism purposes. Other intentions include working, immigration, etc., must apply for a traditional visa at the Embassy. 

Currently, This electronic visa is a single-entry visa that is valid for a stay of up to 30 days in Laos. The eVisa is obtained online by completing an application and paying the visa fee using a credit or debit card. It is also important to have all necessary visas and documentation before departing the US and to follow all health and safety protocols related to COVID-19 to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience.

What are the benefits of getting a Laos visa online for US citizens?

For US citizens, applying for a Laos visa online can offer several benefits compared to traditional visa application methods. These benefits include:

• Convenience: The online application process allows travelers to apply for a Laos visa from the comfort of their own home or office, without having to visit an embassy or consulate in person.
• Time savings: The online application process is typically faster than traditional visa application methods, and can help travelers avoid long wait times and queues at visa processing centers or border crossings.
• Flexibility: The online visa application system is available 24/7, making it easy for travelers to apply for a visa at any time that is convenient for them. More specifically, the eVisa should be obtained 07 days in advance of the intended travel date, providing more flexibility in travel planning.
• Cost savings: The eVisa fee is generally lower than the fee for a traditional visa application, and travelers may also save on travel costs by avoiding the need to travel to an embassy or consulate in person.

To apply for a Laos e-visa, US citizens can complete the application form at Laos Immigration Services, provide extra documents, and pay the e-visa fees. In three business days, your e-visa application will be processed and sent to your email box.