Laos e-Visa requirements for New Zealand citizens

FAQs

1. Can New Zealand citizens go to Laos?

   Yes, New Zealand citizens can visit Laos for tourism or leisure purposes. The national government has established an electronic travel permit known as the Laos eVisa Approval Letter to make it easier for travelers to visit Laos.

   This enables people from 150 countries, including New Zealand, to apply for a Laos e-Visa online. This saves passengers the inconvenience of visiting a local Lao embassy or consulate and waiting in long lines for a visa.

   To begin applying for a Laos eVisa, visitors can visit the Laos Imigration Services website and apply. We will next be prompted to provide the necessary personal information.

   The eVisa Approval Letter for Laos permits New Zealand nationals to stay in the Southeast Asian country for a total of 30 days. 

   The online tourist visa to Laos is processed in around three business days. Travelers should simply ensure that they have all of the essential documentation to enter the Laos PDR upon arrival and that all of the relevant criteria are satisfied.

2. What types of Laos visas can New Zealand citizens apply for?

   Laos tourism offers travelers a unique fusion of natural splendor, a rich cultural legacy, and an unhurried, tranquil ambiance. From ancient temples and historical remnants to breathtaking natural vistas, Laos boasts an array of attractions for those in pursuit of an authentic and less-traveled journey.

   To fully immerse themselves in the wonders of Laos, New Zealand citizens are required to secure an e-visa for legal entry. The Laos eVisa is a digital visa option that enables eligible individuals, including New Zealand citizens, to apply for a tourist visa to Laos through an online process, eliminating the need for in-person visits to an embassy or consulate. As of February 2023, citizens from approximately 150 countries, including New Zealand, are eligible to apply for a Laos eVisa. However, it's important to note that this option is exclusively available for tourism purposes and leisure. Those with other intentions, such as work or immigration, must adhere to the traditional visa application process at the Embassy.

   Currently, the Laos eVisa is a single-entry visa valid for a maximum stay of 30 days in Laos. Travelers can obtain this eVisa online by completing the application and submitting the visa fee using a credit or debit card. Prior to departing from New Zealand, it is crucial to ensure that all requisite visas and documentation are in order. Additionally, travelers should strictly adhere to all COVID-19 health and safety guidelines to ensure a secure and seamless travel experience.

3. Do you need passport photos for the Laos visa?

   Yes, you must provide two identical passport-style pictures with your Laos visa application. This contains applications for the Laos eVisa online.

   The photographs must fulfill the following requirements:

   • They must be 4x6 cm in size.
   • They must be taken against a white background.
   • Your face must be centered in the photo and take up 70-80% of the space.
   • Your eyes must be open and your eyebrows should be in a natural position (not raised or creased).
   • Your mouth should be closed and your lips should be together.
   • You should not be wearing sunglasses, a hat, or any other head covering that obscures your face.

   You may take your own passport photographs or have them professionally shot. If you're taking your own images, make sure you utilize a high-quality camera and even lighting.

   Once you have your photos, you can upload them to the Global Visa Services website 

   Here are some additional tips for taking passport photos:

   • Make sure that your hair is neat and tidy.
   • Wear plain, light-colored clothing that does not have any distracting patterns or designs.
   • Avoid wearing sunglasses, hats, or other head coverings that obscure your face.
   • Smile naturally.
4. Can New Zealand citizens extend the validity of their Laos visa?

   Yes, it is possible for New Zealand citizens to extend the validity of their visa while in Laos if they wish to stay beyond the initial visa-free period or the duration granted on a visa on arrival. However, the extension process and requirements may vary, and it's important to follow the guidelines provided by the immigration authorities in Laos.

   To extend the validity of their visa, New Zealand nationals must normally apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration or the nearest immigration office in Laos. The particular procedures and documentation required for the extension may differ based on the kind of visa and the sought term.

   To give enough time for processing, it is best to begin the extension procedure long before the first visa expires. It's also a good idea to check with the immigration authorities or a local immigration lawyer or travel agency in Laos for the most up-to-date information on the extension procedure, requirements, costs, and any other special restrictions that may apply.

5. How to travel from New Zealand to Laos?

   To travel from New Zealand to Laos, you would typically need to take a flight, as there are no direct air connections between the two countries. There are a few ways to travel from New Zealand to Laos.

   If you want to go directly, there is one way: by plane. This is the most prevalent mode of transportation between the two nations. Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is served by direct flights from Auckland and Christchurch. The flight lasts around 23 hours.

   Besides that, you can also transit through Thailand to arrive in Laos:

   • By bus: There are no direct buses between New Zealand with Laos. You may, however, take a bus from Bangkok to Vientiane. The travel takes around 24 hours.
   • By train: Between New Zealand and Laos, there is no rail service. You may, however, travel the train from Bangkok to Nong Khai, Thailand. You may take a ferry from Nong Khai to Vientiane over the Mekong River. The travel takes around 36 hours.
   • By car: Driving from New Zealand to Laos is not doable. You can, however, drive from Bangkok to Vientiane. The travel takes around 36 hours.

   The best way to travel from New Zealand to Laos is determined by your budget and available time. You can travel directly to Vientiane if you have more time and money.

   No matter which way you choose to travel, be sure to book your tickets in advance. Flights and buses can sell out quickly, especially during the peak season.

   Here are some additional tips for traveling from New Zealand to Laos:

   • Check the Laos visa requirements: Make sure you have the correct visa for Laos before you travel. You can find more information on the Global Visa Services website
   • Get travel insurance: When visiting a foreign nation, it is a good idea to purchase travel insurance. It will protect you in the event of a medical emergency or a travel delay.
   • Pack for all weather conditions: The weather in Laos varies based on the season. Pack clothing for both hot, humid weather and colder, drier weather.
   • Learn some basic Laotian phrases: Learning a few basic Laotian phrases will help you communicate with locals and get around.
   • Be respectful of Laotian culture: Because Laos is a Buddhist country, you should respect local customs and traditions.
6. Do children from New Zealand need a visa for Laos?

   Yes, a visa is required for entry into the Lao PDR for all applicants, including children and infants. Children who are traveling to Laos for tourism or business purposes will need to apply for a Laos visa. They can apply for a Laos visa online through the Global Visa Services website 

   Here are some additional tips for traveling to Laos with children:

   • Make sure your children have a valid passport: The passports of your children must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of their anticipated departure from Laos.
   • Apply for a visa in advance: If your children intend to visit Laos for tourism or business, you should apply for a visa ahead of time. When you arrive in Laos, this will save you time and trouble.
   • Pack for all weather conditions: The weather in Laos varies based on the season. Pack clothing for both hot, humid weather and colder, drier weather.
   • Be prepared for long travel times: The journey from New Zealand to Laos might be lengthy. Prepare for long flights as well as bus or rail rides.
   • Keep your children entertained: Long travel times can be boring for children. Pack some activities to keep them entertained, such as books, games, and movies.