Laos: Visa-on-arrival program to end at several checkpoints as of December 31

Event

Lao authorities have announced that the country will no longer issue visas upon arrival at the Pang Hok (Phongsaly), Nam Soy (Houaphanh), and Nam Ngeun (Xayabouly) land border checkpoints as of Tuesday, December 31. The visa-on-arrival program will later be suspended at the Nam Kanh (Xiengkhouang) and Nam Heuang (Xayabouly) land border checkpoints and Savannakhet International Airport (ZVK) as of Tuesday, March 31, as well as at the Nam Phao (Bolikhamxay), Na Pao (Khammouane), and Phoukeua (Attapeu) land border checkpoints as of Tuesday, June 30.

Local authorities have announced that travelers entering the country through these checkpoints will have to obtain a visa prior to travel from their nearest Laos diplomatic mission. 

Advice

Individuals traveling to Laos are advised to contact their nearest Lao embassy or consulate for more information regarding entry requirements.