Alright, so I needed to get a visa for my trip to Laos, and I figured I’d just do it online ’cause, you know, it’s 2024. Gotta say, the whole process was pretty straightforward, but I did hit a few bumps along the way. So, I thought I’d share my experience here for anyone else planning to visit this beautiful country.
First things first, I went on to find the official website. It’s the official one, so no funny business. Once I was on the site, it was all pretty clear what I needed to do.
I started by filling out the application form. It was your typical stuff – name, passport details, travel dates, blah blah blah. Make sure you double-check everything, ’cause any mistake can slow things down.

Then came the photo. Now, I’ve got this great picture of me from last year’s vacation, but I wasn’t sure if it’d cut it. Turns out, they’re pretty chill about it. As long as it’s a clear shot of your face, you’re good. I uploaded mine, and it went through no problem.
After that, it was time to pay up. There’s a fee, obviously. I paid mine with my card, and it got confirmed pretty quick. I got an email saying they received my application and it was under processing.
Here’s where I got a bit anxious. The website says it takes about three working days to process, but you never know, right? I kept checking my email like a hawk. Thankfully, on the third day, there it was – my eVisa, all shiny and new in my inbox.
- It really does take about three working days, so don’t freak out.
- Make sure your photo is clear, but they’re not super strict.
- Double-check all your info before submitting.
- You can pay online, which is super convenient.
- The eVisa is valid for 60 days, so you’ve got plenty of time to explore.
What you need to know:
One thing I learned is that if you’re entering Laos through certain entry points, you can use the eVisa. But, if you’re planning to extend your stay, you’ll need to do that through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane. Just a heads up. Overall, getting the Laos eVisa online was a breeze. Saved me a ton of time and hassle. If you’re planning a trip, I definitely recommend doing it this way. Just start the process a bit early to avoid any last-minute stress. Happy travels!