Planning a trip to Laos? One of the first things you need to sort out is your visa. Laos uses an electronic visa (eVisa) system, which makes things pretty easy. But there are Types of eVisas Available for Laos to choose from, so let's look at which one fits your trip.

What Types of eVisas Are Available for Laos?

Laos has two types of eVisas. You pick the one that matches why you're travelling:

• Laos Travel eVisa – For tourism, sightseeing, and fun trips.
• Laos Visit eVisa – For visiting friends or family, or for business.

Both are single-entry visas. That means you can enter Laos once. If you leave and want to come back, you'll need a new visa.

How Long Can You Stay in Laos on an eVisa?

Both visa types let you stay for up to 30 days. The visa is valid for 60 days from the day it's issued. So you need to enter Laos within those 60 days. If you apply too early, your visa might expire before your trip.

What Documents Do You Need for a Laos eVisa?

The documents are the same for both visa types. You'll need:

• A passport bio-page scan (your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date)
• A recent passport-size photo

That's all. No long list of paperwork.

How Do You Apply for a Laos eVisa?

You apply online. Here's how it works:

• Fill out the form – Give your passport and travel details, and choose your eVisa type.
• Upload documents and pay – You can pay by debit card, credit card, PayPal, or cryptocurrency.
• Get approval – Your eVisa is sent to your email once it's ready.

What Can't You Do on a Laos eVisa?

There are a few rules to follow. Both visa types do not allow you to:

• Work – No paid or unpaid jobs.
• Overstay – Don't stay past your allowed time.
• Do anything not covered by your visa type

If you plan to work or stay longer, you'll need a different visa.

Can You Extend a Laos eVisa?

Yes. You can extend it by going in person to the immigration office in Vientiane. You must ask for the extension before your current visa expires. Don't wait until the last day.

Do eVisa Agents Really Simplify the Process?

You can apply on your own through the official website, or you can use an eVisa agent. Here's how they compare:

Where eVisa agents win:

• Easier forms – They help fill things in, so you make fewer mistakes.
• Fewer rejections – They check your documents before sending them.
• Faster options – Many offer quick processing.
• Language help – Good if English isn't your first language.
• More payment choices – They accept methods some official sites don't.
• Support – Real people to answer your questions.
• Refunds – Many give your money back if your visa is not approved.

Where the official site wins:

• Cheaper – No extra service fees.
• Direct – You deal straight with the visa office.
• No middleman – Nothing gets lost between you and the processor.

Final Thoughts

Laos keeps things simple with just two eVisa types, a 30-day stay, and a short document list. Whether you apply on your own or use an agent depends on what you value more — saving money or saving time. Either way, apply early, check your documents, and you'll be ready to enjoy your trip.

Note: This information was last reviewed in September 2026. Always check the latest travel rules with the relevant authorities or airlines before you travel.