Recently, Laos has taken significant steps to attract international travellers by relaxing its visa rules. As part of the "Visit Laos 2024"the country has introduced visa exemptions favourable conditions, particularly for Chinese tourists and some European nationals. These changes reflect a clear desire to revitalise Laos' tourism industry, while facilitating access to the cultural and natural riches of this fascinating destination.
Laos has recently taken significant steps to make it easier for tourists to enter the country, notably by relaxing its visa rules for Chinese travellers and certain European nationals. As part of its flagship initiative, the "Visit Laos 2024These changes are aimed at revitalising the tourism industry, which is vital to the Laotian economy.
In a strategic move to revive its tourism sector, which was hit hard by the pandemic, Laos has introduced attractive reforms. These initiatives, which took effect on July 1, include changes to visa policies designed to attract more foreign visitors. This renewal of visa rules reflects the country's desire to showcase its cultural and natural treasures and stimulate economic growth.
Visit Laos 2024" objectives
With the "Visit Laos 2024" programme, the Laotian government aims not only to showcase its tourism potential, but also to promote the Laotian economy. local entrepreneurship and its cultural riches. The aim is to reinforce the country's position on the world stage as a must-see destination for travellers in search of authentic discoveries.
By introducing an open-door policy and simplifying entry procedures, Laos hopes to attract more 4.6 million foreign tourists during the year, generating around 1.3 billion of tourism revenue. A 35 % increase in international arrivals between January and April testifies to a promising future for the sector.
For more information and to apply for a visa online, visit the following links: Contact us, get your e-Visaor Expatriation to Laos with an e-Visa.
Introduction of multiple-entry visas
Laos has broadened its horizons by introducing multiple-entry visas for tourists from countries including Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Russia and the UK. These new options allow travellers to benefit from an initial period of 60 daysThis compares with 30 days for the single-entry visa. This encourages visitors to explore the different regions of Laos more widely, thereby contributing to the development of the local economy.
Improvements for Thai tourist groups
The borders of Laos are also opening up to Thai tourist groups, who can now stay for up to two weeks in Laos. 10 daysThis is in response to growing demand. This period was previously limited to 3 days, offering greater flexibility for exploring the country. In addition, these groups can now access three adjacent provinces from their point of entry.
Comparison of new visa regulations for Laos
| Nationality | Visa requirements |
| Chinese tourists | Visa exemption for 15 days, only for groups with recognised agencies |
| Hong Kong citizens | Visa exemption for 15 days, as for Chinese tourists |
| Tourists from Taiwan | 15-day visa waiver for groups with authorised agencies |
| European citizens (8 countries) | Visa exemption for 15 days: Denmark, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Spain, Greece |
| Australia, New Zealand | Multiple-entry visa, extended to 60 days for greater exploration |
| Thai tourists | Extension to 10 days for groups, access to three border provinces |
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