United States passport to Laos
Visa on arrival for United States passport holders.
United StatesLaosShort stayVisa on arrival
United States passport holders can get a visa on arrival in Laos — no application before you fly, but expect a fee and a queue at the border.
This is short-stay visitor policy only. It does not let you work, study or settle in Laos — that needs a residence permit.
Passport Index · updated 17 February 2026Laos' official immigration service
- How long you can stay
- Set on the visa issued at the border
- Laos passports in United States
- Visa required
- Getting in
- You get the visa at the airport or land border when you arrive. Expect a form, usually a fee and a queue, and carry proof of onward travel.
Long stay
Staying in Laos longer
Living here takes a residence permit. 4 routes researched:
- Work / sponsored
- Investment
- Student
- Family
What changes
United States and Laos side by side
| United States | Laos | |
|---|---|---|
| Capital | Washington D.C. | Vientiane |
| Languages | English | Lao |
| Currency | US Dollar | Lao Kip |
| GDP per person (2025) | $90,027 | $2,325 |
| Population | 341.8M | 7.9M |
GDP and population: World Bank.