Laos Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

Most foreign passengers to Laos can obtain a visa on arrival, provided that: (i) they are arriving at one of the following airports: Vientiane International, Luang Prabang, Pakse,Warray; (ii) they are holding a return/onward ticket, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination; (iii) they have a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos; and (iv) they are in possession of one photograph, size 3 x 4 cm. These tourist visas are valid for 30 days (with one extension possible), and cost USD 30. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Laos, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Americans

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

UK Nationals

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Canadians

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Australians

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

South Africans

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Irish Nationals

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

New Zealanders

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Healthcare

Those planning to travel to Laos should seek medical advice about vaccinations and endemic diseases at least three weeks prior to departure. There have been Avian Influenza poultry outbreaks in northern Laos provinces. Malaria exists throughout the country except in Vientiane, and typhoid and cholera occur in some areas. A typhoid vaccine is recommended for all travelers except short-term business travelers who will restrict their meals to major restaurants and hotels. Other risks include Hepatitis E, plague, dengue fever, and Schistosomiasis if swimming in the Mekong River. Travelers' diarrhoea is a problem for many visitors; only drink bottled water and avoid dairy products, uncooked meat and fish, salads and unpeeled fruit. Medical care in Vientiane is extremely basic and outside the capital there are no reliable facilities to deal with medical emergencies. Medical evacuation is difficult to organize and very expensive. Travelers are advised to take out comprehensive medical insurance, and those who have an unstable medical condition should consider not traveling to Laos. A yellow fever certificate is required by all entering from an infected area. Bird flu has been detected in poultry and wild birds, and the first case of human infection was confirmed in February 2007; however the risk is still low for travelers, but contact with domestic, caged and wild birds should be avoided and poultry and egg dishes well cooked.

Safety

Most visits to Laos are trouble free, but violent crimes such as robbery are on the increase. Foreigners have been assaulted after having their drinks or food drugged. You should be careful about taking drinks from strangers, and do not leave food or drinks unattended. Theft of passports is a problem and travelers are advised to take care, avoid carrying large sums of money and keep valuables and documents in a safe place. Travel in some rural parts of Laos is dangerous because of banditry and unexploded ordnance and visitors should never stray from well-worn footpaths. Visitors should also note that an ID document or passport should be carried at all times and should be presented on demand or a heavy fine could be imposed. Visitors to Vang Vieng are advised to be particularly vigilant of their belongings and aware of their personal security as there have been reports of petty theft in the area. Staying at a trustworthy and secure hotel or guesthouse while in Vang Vieng is recommended.