Vietnam and Laos Visa Requirements: Your Complete Cross-Border Travel Guide

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.

Unlock Seamless Adventures Across Two Enchanting Lands

Vietnam and Laos — neighbors connected by the mighty Mekong River — offer a mesmerizing blend of ancient temples, emerald rice fields, and vibrant hill tribes. From Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter to Luang Prabang’s golden stupas, cross-border journeys let you experience the best of Indochina in one unforgettable trip. Whether you're planning Vietnam Tours or dreaming of Laos Travel, understanding visa rules ensures smooth transitions at land borders like Nam Can (Vietnam) – Nong Haet (Laos) or Lao Bao – Dansavanh.

Legend Travel Group makes it easy: book your multi-country adventure with just a 10% deposit, and pay the balance up to 30 days before departure — travel with complete peace of mind.

Visa Exemptions

• Eligible Countries: Over 25 nations enjoy visa-free entry, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, UK, Japan, South Korea (up to 45 days), and ASEAN countries (up to 30 days).

• Duration: 45 days (Europeans), 30 days (ASEAN), 14 days (Brunei, Myanmar).

• Requirements: Passport valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages, proof of onward travel (recommended).

• Extension: Not possible — exit and re-enter after 30 days for a new exemption.

E-Visa (Recommended for Flexibility)

• Eligibility: 80+ countries (USA, Canada, Australia, India, etc.).

• Duration: 90 days (single or multiple entry).

• Cost: $25 (single), $50 (multiple) — non-refundable.

• Apply Online: Fast, secure process — approval in 3–7 working days.

• Valid At: All international airports, 16 land borders (including Laos crossings), and 13 seaports.

Pro Tip: Use your Vietnam e-visa to enter via Laos land borders — no need to fly into Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City!

Visa Exemptions

• Eligible Countries: ASEAN nations (14–30 days), Japan, South Korea, Russia, Switzerland, Luxembourg (30 days).

• Duration: 30 days (most), 14 days (Myanmar, Brunei).

• Requirements: Passport valid 6+ months, 2 blank pages.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) – Still Available!

• Eligibility: 190+ countries (including USA, Canada, Australia, EU, UK).

• Duration: 30 days (extendable twice for 30 days each).

• Cost: $30–$42 (depending on nationality) — pay in USD cash.

• Where: 7 international airports, 13 land borders (including Vietnam crossings).

• Requirements: 1 passport photo (4x6 cm), completed application form (provided at border).

Pro Tip: Bring exact USD cash and a photo — avoid delays at remote borders!

E-Visa (Laos eVisa)

• Eligibility: 160+ countries.

• Duration: 30 days (single entry).

• Cost: $50.

• Valid At: 3 airports (Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse), 3 land borders (including Friendship Bridge I with Thailand — not yet with Vietnam).

• Apply: Online — approval in 3 working days.

Legend Travel Tip: The Lao Bao – Dansavanh crossing is the smoothest — just 1 hour by private car. Let us arrange your transfer!

• Greetings: Use “xin chào” (Vietnam) and “sabaidee” (Laos) with a smile and slight bow.

• Dress Modestly: Cover shoulders and knees — especially when visiting temples post-border.

• Photography: Always ask permission before photographing locals or monks.

• Respect Silence: Speak softly in immigration halls and temples.

• Tipping: Not expected, but a small “thank you” gift (snack or smile) goes far.

Why Travel With Us?

• 10% Deposit Only — Secure your spot without stress.

• Pay Balance 30 Days Before Departure — Keep peace of mind.

• Private, Customizable Itineraries — From Hanoi to Luang Prabang in one seamless trip.

• Expert Local Guides — English-speaking, passionate, and visa-savvy.

• 24/7 Support — We’re with you every step of the way.

Recommended Multi-Country Tours

1. Vietnam & Laos Highlights (12 Days)
   Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Luang Prabang → Vientiane
   From $1,299 — Book with 10% deposit!

2. Mekong Discovery (10 Days)
   Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Pakse → 4000 Islands
   From $999 — Fully guided, visa assistance included.

3. Indochina Explorer (15 Days)
   Vietnam → Laos → Cambodia
   From $1,899 — The ultimate cross-border adventure.

Book Now: https://www.legendtravelgroup.com
WhatsApp: +84 825 862 222

• Passport (valid 6+ months) + photocopies

• Printed e-visa (if required)

• USD cash ($50–$100 in small bills for Laos VOA)

• 1 passport photo (4x6 cm)

• Modest clothing & lightweight scarf

• Reusable water bottle & eco-friendly tote

• Power bank & offline maps (Maps.me)

• Light rain jacket (wet season)

• Insect repellent & sunscreen

• Small first-aid kit

Total Daily Budget: $80–$250 (mid-range, including tours)

• Arrive Early: Borders close by 5–7 PM.

• Carry USD Cash: Essential for Laos VOA.

• Download E-Visa: Print and save PDF on phone.

• Avoid Weekends & Holidays: Longer queues.

• Use Private Transfer: Faster than public buses.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring water and snacks.

• Do I need a visa for both countries?
  Depends on nationality. Many enjoy exemptions; others need e-visa or VOA.

• Can I get Laos visa at the Vietnam border?
  Yes! VOA available at 13 land borders with Vietnam.

• Is multiple entry needed?
  Only if re-entering the same country within 30 days.

• How far in advance should I apply?
  E-visa: 7–14 days before travel.

• Can Legend Travel Group help with visas?
  Yes! We assist with e-visa applications and border logistics.

We believe in responsible tourism:

• Support local communities

• Use eco-friendly transport

• Promote plastic-free travel

• Plant a tree for every tour booked

Book your Vietnam Tours or Laos Travel today — travel meaningfully.

Mastering Vietnam and Laos visa requirements opens the door to an unforgettable cross-border adventure. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the serene kuang si waterfalls of Luang Prabang, this journey is seamless when planned right.

Let Legend Travel Group handle the details:

• Visa guidance

• Border transfers

• Custom itineraries

• 10% deposit only

Book now at https://www.legendtravelgroup.com
WhatsApp: +84 825 862 222

Your Indochina story begins here — with Vietnam Tours, Laos Travel, and total peace of mind.

By Legend Travel Group © 2025