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Laos Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

British citizens can get a Laos visa on arrival at international airports and major land borders for USD 35-42, valid for a single entry stay of up to 30 days.

Guide last updated October 6, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of arrival, with at least one blank page
  • A completed visa-on-arrival application form (available at the arrival counter)
  • One passport-style photo (2x2 inches/5x5 cm, white background) - carry a spare as not all counters have a photo booth
  • Return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation may be requested
  • Biometrics: fingerprints may be taken at some ports of entry
  • Travel health insurance is recommended though not mandatory for entry

Visa types

  • Tourist visa on arrival - single entry, stay up to 30 days, fee USD 35 for UK nationals (fees vary slightly by nationality)
  • Laos e-visa - an alternative applied for in advance through the official Laos e-visa portal, same 30-day validity, useful to skip the on-arrival queue
  • Business and longer-stay visas require sponsorship and must be arranged in advance through a Lao embassy or consulate

Visa on arrival

  • Available at Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), Luang Prabang International Airport, and major land borders such as the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge
  • Steps: complete the arrival form, submit passport, photo, and fee at the visa counter, wait for processing, then collect your passport with the visa affixed before passport control
  • Fee: USD 35-42 depending on nationality and port of entry, payable in USD cash; a small additional "overtime" fee may apply at land borders outside normal office hours
  • Queue tips: land border crossings can be slower than airports - arrive early and have exact USD cash and a photo ready

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: approximately USD 35 for UK citizens at most ports of entry
  • No separate agency fee when applying directly on arrival
  • Total cost estimate: USD 35-42 including any incidental processing fees
  • Processing time: 15-30 minutes at the counter, longer during peak periods
  • The e-visa alternative typically processes within 3 business days if applied for online in advance

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • Bring exact USD cash, as change is not always available and card payment is rarely accepted at the visa counter
  • Carry a spare passport photo, since not all border posts have photo facilities
  • Consider the e-visa in advance if arriving at a quieter land border where on-arrival processing can be slower
  • A common issue is arriving without a printed accommodation address, which some counters ask for on the form
  • Extensions of up to 30 additional days can be arranged at the Immigration Department in Vientiane for a daily fee

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United Kingdom passport holders

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This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.