Laos to continue suspension of Tourist Visa & restrictions on Foreign Tourists

According to the latest notice from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Government of Laos has decided to continue the suspension of issuing tourist visa for anyone who travels from or transit via countries where the transmissions of COVID-19 cases are still rising rapidly.

A notice issued on Monday said that the national authorities and people must strictly abide the measures that are determined by the National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control. However, the Lao government updates its measures every month based on the pandemic outbreaks around the world and the situation in Laos.

The government will also continue the ban on foreign tourists from entering into Laos. At the same time, following travelers comply with health and safety protocols are allowed to enter into the country:

1. Lao nationals in foreign countries who want to return to Laos are permitted to enter the country. They must register with the Lao PDR embassy or consulate in country of their residence to determine how to facilitate their return.
2. Staff of international organizations that are involved in investment is allowed to travel to Laos, but they must adhere to the regulations issued by the relevant ministries.
3. People who already have a valid entry visa can visit Laos. Those who are unavailable should apply for a new visa to the Lao embassy or consulate in their country of residence to begin the process of approvals.
4. Foreign experts and workers invited by Lao state agencies can visit Laos for essential reasons. They must submit documents to the secretariat.

All international travelers entering into Laos are required to be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival and must undergo a 14-day quarantine at a special center or designated hotel at their own expense. They must provide a health certificate certifying that they are tested negative to the virus. The certificate must be issued in the departure country or region and submitted to authorities at the Lao border. The certificate must be issued no less than 72 hours before starting the journey.

In addition to above, charter flights will remain suspended till further notice. The task force and civil aviation authorities have instructed to place new preventive and control measures before requesting to resume flights.

International checkpoints will also remain closed for general travel, except for essential crossing by Lao and foreign nationals permitted by the committee.

In regards to COVID-19 transmission in Laos, the country has reported a total number of 22 confirmed cases which are under treatment and no patient has died due to virus. However, 21 patients who tested positive to COVID-19 have completely recovered from the virus, as of Thursday (Sept 3).