Laos and Thailand Border Fees: A Comprehensive Guide for International Travelers

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Legend Travel Group.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

The border between Laos and Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most traveled corridors, connecting vibrant cultures, ancient temples, and natural wonders. From the Friendship Bridge linking Vientiane to Nong Khai, to the scenic Mekong crossings at Huay Xai–Chiang Khong, thousands of travelers cross annually to explore Luang Prabang’s golden stupas or Chiang Mai’s mountain retreats. Knowing the Laos and Thailand border fees ensures a smooth, budget-friendly transition—whether you're extending a Laos Travel adventure into Thailand or vice versa.

At Legend Travel Group, we specialize in seamless cross-border journeys. Book your Laos Tours or Thailand Tours with just a 10% deposit and final payment due 30 days before departure—keeping your travel plans stress-free and flexible.

This guide covers official border fees, visa-on-arrival options, overland transport, cultural etiquette, and how to combine both countries into one unforgettable trip with Laos Travel and Thailand Travel experts.

Administrative Note

All fees are in USD or local currency (THB/LAK) and subject to change. Carry small-denomination USD for ease. Overstay fines: 10 USD/day (Laos), 500 THB/day (Thailand). Verify current regulations before travel. Legend Travel Group handles all border logistics on guided tours.

Official Entry & Exit Fees (Land Borders)

• Overtime Fees (outside 6:00 AM–10:00 PM): +1–2 USD per person

• Weekend/Holiday Surcharge: +1 USD

• Motorbike/Car Crossing: 2–10 USD (varies by vehicle)

• Bus Passengers: Fees usually included in ticket; confirm with operator

Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Laos-Thailand Borders

• Laos VOA (for Thailand → Laos):

  • Cost: 30–42 USD (depending on nationality)

  • Validity: 30 days

  • Requirements: 2 passport photos, passport valid 6+ months

• Thailand Exemption (for Laos → Thailand):

  • Swiss, EU, US, UK, etc.: 60-day visa-free

  • No VOA needed for most nationalities

Pro Tip: Legend Travel Group pre-arranges e-visas and border transfers so you avoid queues and hidden fees.

Respecting Local Customs

• Greetings: Use “Sabaidee” (Laos) or “Sawasdee” (Thailand) with a smile and slight bow.

• Dress: Cover shoulders and knees when near temples (common near borders).

• Behavior: Speak softly, avoid pointing feet at people or Buddha images.

• Photography: Ask permission before photographing immigration officers or monks.

• Tipping: Not expected, but 20 THB / 10,000 LAK appreciated for porters.

Legend Travel Group Tip: Our guides ensure you navigate cultural nuances with ease—part of every Laos Tours and Thailand Tours package.

1. Self-Guided Border Crossing

• Route: Vientiane → Nong Khai (Friendship Bridge)

• Transport: Shuttle bus (50,000 LAK / 60 THB), tuk-tuk to bridge

• Total Cost: ~5–7 USD (fees + transport)

• Time: 1–2 hours

• Best For: Budget travelers

2. Legend Travel Group – Laos to Thailand Overland Journey

• Duration: 1 Day

• Includes: Private transfer, border assistance, e-visa pre-check, lunch

• Highlights: Vientiane → Nong Khai → onward to Sukhothai or Chiang Mai

• Price: From $89/person

• Booking: Only 10% deposit required

3. Legend Travel Group – Thailand to Laos Mekong Discovery

• Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

• Route: Chiang Khong → Huay Xai → Pakbeng → Luang Prabang

• Includes: Slow boat on Mekong, border fees, homestay, guide

• Price: From $199/person

• Booking: Final payment 30 days before departure

4. Multi-Country Indochina Loop (Legend Travel Group)

• Duration: 12 Days

• Countries: Thailand → Laos → Vietnam → Cambodia

• Border Crossings: 3 (all fees included)

• Price: From $1,299/person

• Deposit: 10% secures your spot

• Border Expertise: We handle all fees, visas, and transfers

• Flexible Payment: 10% deposit, balance 30 days before travel

• Eco-Conscious: Carbon-offset transport, support local communities

• 24/7 Support: Dedicated team before, during, and after your trip

Book your Laos Tours or Thailand Tours today and cross borders with confidence.

• Cool & Dry Season (November–February): Ideal weather, fewer delays

• Hot Season (March–May): Early morning crossings recommended

• Wet Season (June–October): Possible flooding; avoid remote borders

Morning crossings (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) are fastest.

• Passport (valid 6+ months)

• USD cash (small bills)

• 2 passport photos (for Laos VOA)

• Printed e-visa (if applicable)

• Reusable water bottle

• Lightweight scarf (temples)

• Sunscreen & hat

• Money belt

• Offline maps (Maps.me)

Save more: Book with Legend Travel Group and avoid surprise fees.

• Arrive early (6:00 AM) to beat crowds

• Carry USD for fees

• Use Legend Travel Group for VIP fast-track

• Download Maps.me for offline navigation

• Dress respectfully near temples

• Keep passport photos handy

• Do I need a visa to cross from Laos to Thailand? Most nationalities get 60 days visa-free in Thailand.

• How much are the border fees? 1–2 USD per side, plus overtime/weekend surcharges.

• Can I pay in THB or LAK? USD preferred; local currency accepted with poor rates.

• Is the Friendship Bridge open 24/7? No, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; overtime fees apply.

• Does Legend Travel Group include border fees? Yes, all official fees are included in tour price.

Discover the best of Laos Travel and Thailand Travel with our eco-conscious tours:

• Mekong Discovery Laos to Thailand – 2 Days – $199

• Golden Triangle Explorer – 3 Days – $299

• Indochina Border Odyssey – 12 Days – $1,299

Book Now: Only 10% deposit. Pay balance 30 days before departure.
https://www.legendtravelgroup.com

Mastering Laos and Thailand border fees is the key to a seamless overland adventure. With Legend Travel Group, you’ll cross with ease, avoid hidden costs, and immerse in authentic culture—all with flexible payment and expert guidance.

Whether you're extending your Laos Tours into Thailand or beginning your Thailand Travel from Laos, let us handle the details.
Book today with just 10% deposit and travel with peace of mind.

By Legend Travel Group.