Laos visa in 2026: what changed, what didn't.

Laos visa rules shifted in late 2025. Here is what is current as of early 2026.

The four ways in

1. Visa on arrival at major airports and most land borders — USD 30–45 depending on nationality, two passport photos, fill the form at the desk.
2. eVisa online at the official Lao Immigration portal — apply up to 30 days ahead, USD 50, get an email with a QR code, scan at arrival.
3. Visa exemption — ASEAN nationals and a handful of others (Russia, Japan, Korea) get up to 30 days free.
4. In-advance visa at a Lao embassy — only worth it if your airline insists on a visa before boarding.

The digital arrival card

New since October 2025: every arrival, visa or no visa, fills the Lao Digital Arrival Card online within three days of arrival. It's a five-minute form. Skipping it gets you held at the desk.

Land borders that matter

• Friendship Bridge (Vientiane) — busiest, smoothest, runs all day
• Huay Xai (Bokeo) — north Thailand crossing, popular with slow-boat travelers
• Nong Nok Khien (Cambodia) — 4,000 Islands exit, slowest in the country

Bring exact USD cash for any land-border crossing. ATM access on the Lao side is unreliable.