Laos Visa RequirementsFor Australia passport holders
Australians can enter Laos with a Visa on Arrival for 30 days, costing approximately USD 35, or apply online for an eVisa before departure.
Australia passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Laos ports of entry.
Visa on Arrival is available at designated international airports including Wattay International Airport in Vientiane and Luang Prabang International Airport, as well as some land border crossings. The fee is approximately USD 35 (exact amount varies slightly by nationality: confirm before travel). Alternatively, apply for a Laos eVisa at least a week before your trip through the official government portal. Requirements include a valid passport with at least six months validity, a passport-style photo, and proof of onward travel.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Australia to Laos: What You Need to Know
Laos is a peaceful and relatively safe destination known for its relaxed pace, stunning landscapes along the Mekong River, Buddhist temples, and towns such as Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. Crime rates are low but petty theft in tourist areas warrants standard precautions. Travellers should exercise caution in remote border areas and avoid unexploded ordnance (UXO) risks in rural regions, particularly in eastern Laos, a legacy of historical bombing.
Practical Tips
The eVisa is more convenient than Visa on Arrival as it avoids queues at the airport. Mosquito-borne diseases including dengue fever and malaria are present in Laos: use repellent and consider anti-malarial medication if travelling to rural areas. Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food hygiene. The official currency is the Lao kip, but USD and Thai baht are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Australians get a visa for Laos?
Australians have two main options: obtain a Visa on Arrival at major international airports and select border crossings (approximately USD 35), or apply online for an eVisa through laoevisa.gov.la before departure. The eVisa is generally recommended for convenience.
How long can Australians stay in Laos on a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa, whether Visa on Arrival or eVisa, allows a stay of 30 days. Extensions can be obtained at the immigration department in Vientiane for a fee if you wish to stay longer.
Are there health risks Australians should be aware of in Laos?
Yes. Mosquito-borne diseases including dengue fever and malaria are present, particularly in rural areas. Travellers should use insect repellent, sleep under nets in rural areas, and consult their doctor about malaria prophylaxis. Drinking only bottled or purified water is essential.
What is the UXO risk in Laos?
Laos is one of the most heavily bombed countries per capita in history. Unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a risk in rural and forested areas, particularly in Xieng Khouang Province and eastern Laos. Always stick to established paths and never touch unidentified metal objects on the ground.
How can Australians get a visa for Laos?
Australians have two main options: obtain a Visa on Arrival at major international airports and select border crossings (approximately USD 35), or apply online for an eVisa through laoevisa.gov.la before departure. The eVisa is generally recommended for convenience.
How long can Australians stay in Laos on a tourist visa?
The standard tourist visa, whether Visa on Arrival or eVisa, allows a stay of 30 days. Extensions can be obtained at the immigration department in Vientiane for a fee if you wish to stay longer.
Are there health risks Australians should be aware of in Laos?
Yes. Mosquito-borne diseases including dengue fever and malaria are present, particularly in rural areas. Travellers should use insect repellent, sleep under nets in rural areas, and consult their doctor about malaria prophylaxis. Drinking only bottled or purified water is essential.
What is the UXO risk in Laos?
Laos is one of the most heavily bombed countries per capita in history. Unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a risk in rural and forested areas, particularly in Xieng Khouang Province and eastern Laos. Always stick to established paths and never touch unidentified metal objects on the ground.