Laos e-visa requirements for Sri Lankan passport holders

FAQs

1. Can Sri Lankan citizens travel to Laos?

   Yes, Sri Lankans are permitted to travel to Laos. They can apply for a visa to Laos online through the Global Visa Services website. The eVisa for Laos issued by Sri Lanka is a single-entry visa valid for 30 days.

   To apply for a Laos visa online, you will need to provide the following documents:

   Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your anticipated departure date from Laos.

   Passport photograph: Your passport photograph must be a recent, color photograph that meets the following requirements:

   • It must be shot in front of a white background.
   • Your face should be in the center of the shot and occupy approximately 70-80% of the area.
   • Your eyes should be open, and your brows should be natural (not lifted or wrinkled).
   • Your lips should be together and your mouth should be closed.
   • Wearing sunglasses, a hat, or any other head covering that obscures your face is not permitted.

   Email address: You must provide a valid email address where you can receive your eVisa.

   Payment: You must pay the eVisa fee. You can pay with a credit card or a debit card.

2. Is Laos safe for Sri Lankan citizens?

   Laos is usually regarded as a safe destination for tourists, especially Sri Lankans. Laos has a low crime rate, and the nation is noted for its tranquil and inviting atmosphere. However, like with any other tourist site, use cautious and take the appropriate procedures to protect personal safety. Here are some safety precautions to take when visiting Laos:

   • Stay Informed: Check travel advisories and information from your government or relevant authorities before your trip to stay up to speed on the current situation in Laos.
   • Secure Belongings: Take care to protect your assets and property. For passports, cash, and critical papers, use hotel safes or secure storage solutions. Pickpocketing is common in busy settings, so keep a watch on your personal things at all times.
   • Transportation Safety: Use trusted transportation providers and make that the cars are in good working order. When going by vehicle, use caution because road conditions might change, and follow local traffic rules.
   • Health and Hygiene: Maintain excellent hygiene measures, such as hand washing and drinking clean food and water. To avoid potential health problems, drink bottled or filtered water and avoid eating street food.
   • Respect Local Customs and Laws: In Laos, become acquainted with the local customs, traditions, and laws. Respect cultural norms by dressing modestly, especially while visiting religious locations.
   • Stay Connected: Inform someone of your trip intentions and keep them up to date on your location. Keep in touch with your embassy or consulate in case of an emergency or for help.

   As with any overseas journey, travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen possessions is suggested.

   While Laos is usually safe, it is always best to be cautious, use common sense, and adhere to local rules and regulations to have a safe and pleasurable travel experience.

3. Does my Laos visa have to be printed in colour?

   No, your Laos visa does not need to be in color. Your Laos visa can be printed in black and white as long as it is readable, especially the QR Code. However, it is advised that you print your visa in color so that immigration officers may easily check it.

   Here are the requirements for the printout of your Laos eVisa:

   • The printing must be readable and clear.
   • All of the information on your eVisa, including your name, passport number, and travel dates, must be included on the printout.

   The PDF on an electronic device or a snapshot of the e-Visa are not allowed. Entry may be refused to those who cannot show a paper copy of the approval letter.

4. How much time can a Sri Lankan stay in Laos?

   Visitors who have a valid e-Visa for Laos can remain for up to 30 days from the date of arrival.

   Laos eVisas are valid for 60 days from the date they are granted. Sri Lankan can utilize their Laos online visa at any time throughout the 60-day period.

   If visitors from Sri Lanka desire to remain for more than 30 days or do not match the Laos eVisa requirements, they must apply for a different form of visa at an embassy.

   In addition, please make sure to thoroughly review all the information before submitting it in order to prevent mistakes or inaccuracies in your e-Visa application. It is advised that you double-check your application form and all supplementary materials to make sure they are accurate, complete, and current.

5. Do I need a Laos transit visa for Sri Lankan citizens?

   If you are traveling through Laos by air and your country of citizenship requires a visa to enter Laos, you will need a transit visa even if your visit is solely for the purpose of passing through and not for stopping or visiting.

   A transit visa is necessary for individuals with a brief layover at a Laos airport. This type of visa allows Sri Lanka citizens, instead of remaining at the airport during their layover, to enter the country of Laos.

   To apply for a transit visa in Laos, you must provide the following documents:

   • A current passport
   • An application form for a visa
   • A current passport photograph
   • Proof of future travel
   • An electronic mail address

   When you arrive in Laos, you will need to show your visa to immigration officers.

   Here are some additional tips for transiting through Laos:

   • Make sure you have your visa ready ahead of time.
   • Check with your airline to determine whether a transit visa is required.
   • Prepare to present immigration officers with your onward travel papers.
   • Stay inside the airport's transit zone.
6. Does an eletronic travel permit ensure my entry into Laos?

   No, a travel authorization will not grant you entry into Laos. An immigration official will make the ultimate judgment on entrance into Laos upon arrival at the border.

   A travel authorization is a document that permits you to visit Laos without the need for a visa. However, it remains at the discretion of immigration officers. If an immigration officer considers you pose a security risk or do not satisfy Laos' entrance rules, you may be denied entry even if you have travel permission.

   Here are some things you may do to improve your chances of getting travel permission to enter Laos:

   • Make sure you have a valid passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your desired departure date from Laos.
   • Have a specific goal in mind for your trip to Laos.
   • Have a return ticket or other proof of further travel.
   • Prepare to answer inquiries regarding your travel arrangements.

   It's important to note that visa policies and requirements can change over time, so it's advisable to check with the Embassy or Consulate of Laos or consult with Global Visa Services for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding transit visa requirements, application procedures, and any specific conditions that may apply to Sri Lankan citizens transiting through Laos. They will be able to provide the most current and detailed information based on the latest visa regulations.