Dreaming of exploring the serene mountains, French-colonial charm, and calm riversides of Laos? Indian travellers can easily visit this Southeast Asian gem with the right visa. This guide covers everything about the Laos Visa for Indians - including visa types, fees, required documents, application process, and latest travel updates, so you can plan your journey confidently.

What Is a Laos Visa?

A Laos visa is an official entry permit that allows foreign nationals, including Indians, to enter the Lao People’s Democratic Republic for tourism, business, or short stays.

Indian citizens can choose between three main visa options:

• Visa on Arrival (VoA) – Apply directly upon landing.

• e-Visa – Apply online before travel.

• Embassy Visa – Apply through the Embassy of Laos in India for longer or multiple entries.

Latest Updates (2025)

• Visa Exemptions Ended: Laos has ended its temporary visa-free programme from Visit Laos Year 2024. Indian travellers now need a valid visa to enter.

• Digital Immigration Form: Starting September 2025, all travellers (including Indians) must complete the Lao Digital Immigration Form (LDIF) at least three days before arrival.

• Updated e-Visa Entry Points: Laos has updated the list of airports and border crossings that accept e-Visa entry, including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse airports.

Types of Laos Visa for Indians

1. Visa on Arrival (VoA):

Available to Indian nationals at selected entry points such as:

• Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)

• Luang Prabang International Airport

• Pakse International Airport

• Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge border posts

You’ll need to carry printed documents and the visa fee in cash (USD).

2. e-Visa (Recommended):

Apply online before departure via the official Lao e-Visa portal. Once approved, print the e-Visa approval letter and show it upon arrival.

3. Embassy Visa:

If you prefer advance processing, apply at the Embassy of Laos in New Delhi for tourist or business purposes.

Validity & Duration of Stay

For Indian citizens:

• Tourist Visa / e-Visa: Stay up to 30 days.

• Visa Validity: Enter Laos within 60 days of issue.

• Extension Option: You can extend your stay once (for around 15 days) at the immigration office in Laos.

Laos Visa Fees for Indians

• Visa on Arrival: Around USD 30–45 (₹2,500 – ₹3,800) depending on entry point.

• e-Visa: Around USD 50 (₹4,200 approx.) including processing charges.

• Embassy Visa: Around USD 60–70 (₹5,000 – ₹6,000) depending on category and service fees.

• Visa Extension: Around USD 2 (₹170) per extra day beyond your original stay.

(Note: Fees may vary slightly depending on currency exchange and embassy updates.)

Documents Required for Laos Visa

For Indian travellers applying online, on arrival, or via the embassy:

• Valid Indian passport (minimum 6-month validity)

• Recent passport-size photograph (white background)

• Completed visa application or e-Visa form

• Flight tickets (return or onward travel)

• Hotel booking confirmation

• Bank statement or proof of funds

• Visa fee payment receipt

For embassy visas, additional documents like invitation letters or sponsorships may be required.

How to Apply for Laos Visa (Step-by-Step for Indians)

1. Choose your visa type: Decide between Visa on Arrival, e-Visa, or Embassy Visa.

2. Prepare your documents: Keep digital and printed copies ready.

3. Apply online or in person:

• For e-Visa: Visit the official Laos e-Visa website, upload documents, and pay online.

• For Visa on Arrival: Carry documents and fees in USD for payment at the airport.

• For Embassy Visa: Submit your application in New Delhi.

4. Receive your visa:

• e-Visa: Get digital approval via email.

• VoA: Get a sticker visa upon arrival.

5. Arrive in Laos: Complete immigration with your passport, visa, and LDIF form.

Type of Visa – Sticker, e-Visa, or DAC

• e-Visa: Digital approval printed and shown at entry.

• Visa on Arrival: Physical sticker visa placed in your passport.

• Embassy Visa: Also a sticker visa, valid for single or multiple entries.

Why Apply Through MusafirBaba?

Applying for an international visa can be confusing - but MusafirBaba makes it effortless.

• Simplified visa guidance for Indian travellers.

• Real-time visa updates and travel advisory.

• Step-by-step support from application to approval.

• Secure documentation and travel planning assistance.

• Dedicated travel experts for Southeast Asia itineraries.

Your Laos adventure begins with peace of mind when you travel with MusafirBaba.