---
title: Laos visa for citizens of the United States
description: "Citizens of the United States can get a visa on arrival in Laos. Stay up to 30 days. Processing: On arrival. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/laos/united-states
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# Laos visa for citizens of the United States

Citizens of the United States can get a visa on arrival in Laos.

*Not yet verified · last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

> Our latest check could not confirm these details against an official source, or found a conflict. Treat them as a starting point and confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you book.

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Visa on Arrival (Tourist)
- **How to apply:** Get your visa at the border
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 30 days
- **Entries:** Single entry
- **Processing time:** On arrival
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Not required
- **Appointment:** Not required
- **Interview:** Not required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Required

## How to apply

1. **Arrive at designated VOA border or airport** — Proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter after clearing immigration.
2. **Submit documents and application form** — Present your passport, photograph, completed VOA form, and onward ticket.
3. **Pay visa fee** — Pay the standard VOA fee (cash in USD or local currency).
4. **Wait for visa processing** — Processing usually takes 10–30 minutes depending on queue.
5. **Collect passport with visa sticker** — Receive your passport with the visa affixed and verify details.
6. **Proceed to immigration checkpoint** — Present your passport with visa and embarkation card to enter Laos.

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)** (Identity): Must have at least two blank visa pages.
- **Passport-sized photograph (2x2 inches, white background)** (Identity): One recent colour photo; sometimes can be taken on site for a fee.
- **Visa on Arrival application form** (Supporting): Provided at the border crossing or airport; must be completed in English.
- **Return or onward ticket** (Travel): Proof of exit from Laos within authorized stay.
- **Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation** (Travel, optional): May be requested to show intended stay address.

## Good to know

- Only 15 out of 33 border crossings accept VOA; other crossings require pre-arranged e-Visa or regular visa.
- e-Visa is available at certain airports and bridges but this lane covers only VOA.

## Common refusal reasons

- **Passport validity less than 6 months** — Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date.
- **Insufficient photographs or incorrect size** — Carry at least one recent passport photo meeting 2x2 inch specifications.
- **No onward or return ticket** — Have a printed or digital copy of your booked exit flight or travel itinerary.
- **Previously overstayed visa in Laos** — Ensure compliance with previous visa conditions before reapplying.

## FAQs

### Do citizens of the United States need a visa for Laos?

Citizens of the United States can get a visa on arrival in Laos. Visa type: Visa on Arrival (Tourist).

### How long can citizens of the United States stay in Laos?

Up to 30 days.

### What documents do citizens of the United States need for Laos?

Valid passport (at least 6 months validity); Passport-sized photograph (2x2 inches, white background); Visa on Arrival application form; Return or onward ticket; Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation.

### How long must my passport be valid for Laos?

At least 6 months.

## More

- [Laos visa for every passport](/visa/laos)
- [Every destination for United States passport holders](/visa/passport/united-states)