Being one of the most unspoiled, rugged countries in the world, Laos which is like a lost world that has colorful mountain tribes, majestic Buddhist temples around every corner and breath-taking mountain vistas, makes a long lasting impression on anybody taking a trip to this country. To enter Laos, you need a visa, unless you hold a passport from one of the ASEAN member states or Japan. Indochina travel Laos
However, the good news is that thirty-day visas are now available on arrival at most international borders and you probably will not need to arrange it in advance. A passport that is valid for more than six months from the time of entry into Laos is what all visitors must hold.
Available to passengers flying into Pakse Airport, Wattay Airport in Vientiane and Luang Prabang Airport, visas on arrival will cost you around $35 and take just a few minutes to process. It is possible for visitors travelling from Thailand to Laos to pick up visas on arrival at any of the border crossings open to foreign tourists such as China (Mo Han) and certain places in Vietnam (Lao Bao, Cau Treo, Tay Trang, Bo Y and Nam Khan).
A passport-sized photo is required while only US dollars are accepted as payment. It is popular that the border officials will usually turn a blind eye for an extra $1 if you forget the photo. Note that it is not eligible for passport holders from a number of countries, such as: Zambia, Turkey and Pakistan to get visas on arrival, thus, they must obtain one in advance. Do not forget to check for the comprehensive list. You will need to arrange a visa before arriving at the border if you want to cross into Laos from all other points, including Cha Lo in Vietnam. Pre-arranged tourist visas, like visas on arrival, allow for an up to 30-day stay.
Avoid buying one unless your border crossing demands it as especially if you pay a tour operator to help you out the prices are generally a little higher. In this case, you can obtain visas directly from Lao consulates and embassies. At the Lao embassy in Bangkok, it costs 1,680 baht for Canadians, 1,200 baht for those from South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, and 1,400 baht for nationals of Ireland, the US and UK for thirty-day visas. The processing can usually be done on the same day you apply before noonn although it is a must take two passport-sized photos with you. tours in Laos
Through one of the many travel agents concentrated on or around Khao San Road or at the Lao consulate in Khon Kaen, in the northeast of Thailand, you can also obtain advance visas. However, the processing fees and prices can vary significantly. Bear in mind that Lao visa prices and regulations are subject to frequent change wherever you choose to get your visa.
It is important to note that the regulations and conditions change frequently and the prices charged vary from place to place, although the Lao embassy in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi capital city and Danang can also issue visas. Lao visas issued in Thailand are significantly cheaper than those issued in Vietnam.
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