The Government of Laos has decided to lift the travel restrictions to permit the people to travel around the country as Laos is also easing the prevention measures of COVID-19 pandemic to minimize the pandemic impact on the economy and livelihoods in Laos.

On Friday (May 15), the Prime Minister’s Office had made a second announcement on the easing of lockdown measures since the lockdown was first imposed on April 1 in the country. According to the latest announcement, all forms of interprovincial public transport by land, water and air may resume their operations.

These restrictions are being eased as no new case of COVID-19 has been reported for more than a month. As of Monday (May 18), the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases remains at 19 and no death is caused by the virus. Moreover, 14 patients have completely recovered from the virus.

The government has also warned in its announcement stating “We should not be careless” as risks and challenges can reoccur in future and Laos may face a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Therefore, the government will continue to enforce certain measures under Prime Minister’s Order No. 06 until June 1, as follows:

1. Closure of entertainment venues, cinemas, karaoke bars, night markets, casinos, gaming shops, and sports competitions involving a large number of people who cannot remain one meter apart
2. Prohibition of unofficial gatherings, parties, celebrations, traditional events, and weddings whose participants exceed 50 people and cannot remain one meter apart
3. Closure of all local and international border crossings to the general public
4. Suspension of all types of entry visa for citizens traveling from or transiting via COVID-19 outbreak countries except visas for diplomats, experts, technical staff and workers who are considered essential.

In addition to above, all foreigners entering into Laos are required to comply with Laos COVID-19 prevention measures about which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will issue instructions on a later date.