Laos Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
UK passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in Laos for up to 30 days at a cost of $35 USD. The visa on arrival is available at major airports and most major land border crossings. Alternatively, British nationals can apply for an eVisa online before departure.
United Kingdom passport holders can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Laos ports of entry.
For visa on arrival: carry $35 USD in cash and two passport photographs, arrive at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane or Luang Prabang International Airport, and complete the arrival form. For eVisa: apply online at laoevisa.gov.la at least 3 business days before travel, upload your photo and passport scan, and pay by card. Print the approval letter to show at the border.
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
United Kingdom to Laos: What You Need to Know
Laos offers both visa on arrival and eVisa options for British nationals. The eVisa (available at laoevisa.gov.la) is recommended for convenience and to avoid queues at the airport. Both options cost $35 and permit a 30-day single-entry stay. Extensions of up to 30 additional days can be arranged through guesthouses or travel agents in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
Practical Tips
The Lao kip (LAK) is the local currency; Thai baht and USD are also widely accepted. Laos requires a yellow fever certificate if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. The Mekong River corridor, the Plain of Jars, and the ancient city of Luang Prabang (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are highlights. Unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the Vietnam War era remains a danger in rural areas; stick to marked paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK citizens need a visa for Laos?
Yes. British nationals require a visa for Laos. UK citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for $35 USD or apply for an eVisa online at laoevisa.gov.la before travel. Both options permit a single-entry 30-day stay.
How do I apply for the Laos eVisa?
Apply at laoevisa.gov.la at least 3 business days before travel. Upload a digital passport photo, enter your passport details and travel dates, and pay $35 USD by card. You will receive an approval letter by email, which you print and present at the airport. The eVisa is recommended to avoid queues on arrival.
Can I extend my Laos visa once in the country?
Yes. Visa extensions of up to 30 additional days are available and straightforward to arrange. Most guesthouses and travel agents in Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang offer visa extension services for a small service fee on top of the official extension cost. Apply before your current visa expires.
What are the highlights of Laos for UK visitors?
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage city of Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, and the Mekong River, and is the highlight for most visitors. Vang Vieng offers stunning karst scenery and outdoor activities. The Plain of Jars in Phonsavan is a unique archaeological site. The 4,000 Islands region (Si Phan Don) in the south near the Cambodian border is ideal for slow travel.